What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?
At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.
Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.
Senior Systems Integration Scientist/Engineer
Cambridge, Onsite
Internal Only Closing Date: Tuesday 11th August
As a Senior Systems Integration Scientist/Engineer here at Illumina in Cambridge, you will play a critical role in the integration, testing and advancement of next-generation DNA sequencing technologies. Working within a highly collaborative R&D environment, you will contribute to the development of prototype and early-stage sequencing instruments, operating across hardware, fluidics, surface chemistry, software, electronics and bioinformatic data analysis. This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role focused on system-level problem solving, experimental design and technology maturation, partnering closely with scientists, engineers and technical stakeholders to bring innovative genomic solutions closer to reality. Your work will directly contribute to Illumina’s mission of improving human health through the power of genomics.
Illumina's employee benefits are industry-leading and include, flexible time off, private medical insurance, compassion and care time off, leisure travel insurance, pension, employee stock purchasing program, volunteer time off, and much more!
Why You:
You are a multidisciplinary scientist or engineer with a postgraduate qualification in Molecular Sciences, Physics or a related discipline, and you bring extensive hands-on experience working with DNA/RNA sequencing technologies. You have a proven track record of troubleshooting complex systems at the system level, particularly within prototype or early-stage development environments where multiple technologies intersect.
You are equally comfortable working with instrumentation, experimental design and data analysis, and you enjoy uncovering root causes through structured investigation and problem solving. Experience working in Linux environments for system operation and diagnosis is essential, alongside strong analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail and excellent communication skills.
You thrive in collaborative environments and embrace Illumina’s Win Together culture by partnering effectively across engineering, scientific, manufacturing and quality teams. Exposure to next-generation sequencing technologies, sample preparation methods, nano-scale technologies, scripting or coding languages such as Python, MATLAB or VB, and experience within regulated environments such as ISO 13485, ISO 9001 or GxP would be advantageous.
Key responsibilities:
- Hands‑on integration, testing and troubleshooting of DNA sequencing systems.
- Evaluation and integration of novel sequencing technologies ranging from surface sciences, fluidics, software, mechanics and chemistry and system‑level troubleshooting
- Design, execution and documentation of sequencing experiments including data analysis.
- Tracking, logging and communicating issues encountered during development
- Working effectively within cross‑functional project teams (R&D, manufacturing, service, quality, marketing)
- Writing and maintaining test procedures and quality control documentation
- Supporting manufacturing by troubleshooting consumables, hardware and system‑level integration issues
- Presenting technical findings and recommendations to engineering and scientific stakeholders
The estimated base salary range for the Senior Systems Integration Engineer role based in United Kingdom is GBP 44,000 - 66,000.

The range reflects long‑term growth in the role; therefore, most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. This salary range applies to the primary posting location listed above. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range will be updated accordingly. Compensation ranges for other locations will differ to reflect local market competitiveness and will be shared with candidates if applicable during the recruitment process.

Additionally, all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package.

We offer a thoughtfully designed benefits package that supports your wellbeing, flexibility, and life beyond work—combining globally differentiated offerings with locally tailored programs. This includes support during important life moments, flexible time off, opportunities to give back, and a weeklong company-wide summer shutdown. In the UK, we also offer flexible benefits, a company contribution of 10% into your pension, and private medical insurance, alongside additional benefits to support you and your family.
We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact
[email protected]. To learn more, visit: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf. The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.