NGS Scientist I (Contract)

Department: Antibody Engineering / Next-Generation Sequencing
Location: Berkeley, CA (Onsite preferred; hybrid considered)

About Prellis Biologics

The heart of Prellis Bio’s strategy is the combination of novel, cutting-edge methods in machine learning, biology at scale, and next-generation antibody discovery that address long-standing industry-wide problems in the drug development pipeline. Prellis Biologics uses proprietary technology to 3D print human lymph node organoids, enabling the rapid and diverse discovery of human antibody therapeutic candidates for a range of applications.

To drive this forward, we are assembling an incredible team of discovery biologists, computational scientists, and protein scientists who want to make a difference in this important mission.

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented NGS Scientist I (Contract) to join our Antibody Engineering Department. This position will play a key role in executing next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows supporting single-cell and repertoire-level antibody discovery across human and non-human systems.

The ideal candidate will be hands-on in molecular biology and sequencing workflows, comfortable with both routine bench execution and data handling, and eager to work in a dynamic, cross-functional environment focused on rapid antibody candidate identification.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute establishedsingle-cell and bulk NGS workflows (e.g., 10x Genomics, plate-based single-cell recovery, or hybridoma repertoire sequencing) for human and non-human systems.
• Perform RNA/DNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, PCR amplification, and library preparation for Illumina sequencing platforms.
• Support the recovery and annotation of antibody variable regions (VH/VL) from diverse discovery sources, including organoid-derived B cells and immunized animals.
• Conduct routine QC of sequencing libraries (Bioanalyzer/TapeStation, Qubit, qPCR) and coordinate sequencing runs with internal and external partners.
• Collaborate closely with bioinformatics and antibody engineering teams to ensure data integrity, accurate metadata tracking, and smooth handoffs for downstream analysis.
• Maintain accurate and complete experimental records in electronic lab notebooks (ELN) and contribute to SOP development and optimization.
• Participate in troubleshooting, continuous improvement, and scalability efforts for high-throughput sequencing pipelines.

Qualifications

• PhD or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, or related field with 1–4 years of hands-on laboratory experience (industry experience preferred).
• Demonstrated experience in next-generation sequencing workflows, including library prep and QC.
• Familiarity with single-cell sequencing technologies (e.g., 10x Genomics, SMART-seq, or similar).
• Working knowledge of immunology or antibody biology (BCR/TCR sequencing) is a strong plus.
• Comfortable working with LIMS/ELN systems, and basic data handling in Excel, R, or Python.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Experience

• Exposure to antibody repertoire sequencing, clonotyping, or heavy/light chain pairing workflows.
• Experience with Illumina sequencing instruments (e.g., MiSeq, NextSeq) and QC tools (Bioanalyzer, TapeStation).
• Prior work in biotech or academic antibody discovery programs.
• Familiarity with automated liquid handlers or high-throughput molecular biology workflows.

About Prellis Biologics

At Prellis, we integrate human biology with machine learning. We aim to revolutionize drug discovery by harnessing the power of the human immune system to develop next-generation antibody therapeutics with unparalleled speed, precision, and safety. We are committed to empowering our pharmaceutical partners with access to the most promising, fully human antibody candidates rapidly identified from the human immune repertoire.

Prellis Biologics is a pre-IPO biotech located in Berkeley, CA, with a team-oriented, inclusive, and family-friendly culture. Our growing pipeline targets high unmet patient needs across therapeutic areas, including metabolic, inflammation, and oncology diseases. Our investors include Celesta, Khosla Ventures, SOSV, and Avidity Partners.

What You Can Expect From Us

As we work to develop treatments that take care of others, we also care for your professional and personal growth and well-being. From our collaborative culture to opportunities for learning and impact, you’ll be supported every step of the way.

Compensation and Details

• Contract position, with the potential for extension or conversion to full-time based on performance and company needs.
• Competitive hourly rate commensurate with experience.
• Flexible scheduling options within standard lab hours.
• Onsite or hybrid work environment in Berkeley, CA.

Prellis does not have an application deadline for this position; we will continue accepting applications until we receive a sufficient number or select a candidate for the position.

Prellis Bio is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

We believe diversity, equity, and inclusion need to be at the foundation of our culture. We work hard to bring together diverse teams–grounded in a wide range of expertise and life experiences–and work even harder to ensure those teams thrive in inclusive, growth-oriented environments supported by equitable company and team practices. All candidates can expect equitable treatment, respect, and fairness throughout the interview process.