Senior Scientist II/Principal Scientist, Sequencing Technologies

About the role

Terrana Biosciences is building a new generation of RNA-based technologies to transform agriculture. We are seeking an innovative and strategic Senior Scientist II or Principal Scientist, Sequencing Technologies to lead the vision, development, and expansion of sequencing capabilities across the company. As a scientific leader, you will define and drive sequencing strategies that accelerate discovery, platform development, and product advancement. You will serve as the technical authority for next-generation sequencing technologies, develop novel assays and approaches, and identify emerging opportunities that strengthen Terrana's RNA technology platform. This role requires a highly creative scientist who thrives at the intersection of technology innovation, scientific leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute an integrated sequencing strategy leveraging short-read, long-read, nanopore, and emerging sequencing technologies to maximize data quality, speed, flexibility, and cost efficiency.
• Conceive, develop, and implement innovative sequencing applications spanning genome, transcriptome, and regulatory RNA characterization.
• Evaluate and implement emerging sequencing technologies and establish new capabilities that improve data quality, throughput, flexibility, or cost efficiency
• Own the sequencing function and sequencing core operations at Terrana, ensuring reliable, scalable, and cost-effective delivery of sequencing data supporting 100% of company pipeline activities. Accountable for sequencing throughput, quality, turnaround time, and operational performance.
• Drive continuous improvements in sequencing throughput, turnaround time, library creation automation, and unit economics while expanding the scale and impact of sequencing across the organization .
• Partner closely with Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, and AI/ML teams to enable key research objectives and accelerate innovation.
• Mentor scientists and contribute to the development of technical talent and scientific culture across the organization.
• Drive external collaborations and represent Terrana's sequencing capabilities with scientific partners and collaborators.
• Communicate scientific strategy, findings, and recommendations to senior leadership.
• PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Senior Scientist II: Ph.D. and 8-11 years of relevant industry and/or postdoctoral experience with a demonstrated record of scientific leadership and innovation and leadership of sequencing platforms and operations.
• Principal Scientist: Ph.D. and 12+ years of relevant industry and/or postdoctoral experience with a demonstrated record of scientific leadership and innovation and leadership of sequencing platforms and operations.
• Deep expertise in next-generation sequencing technologies, assay development, experimental design, and RNA-focused applications.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing novel technologies or platform capabilities.
• Experience leading complex, cross-functional scientific initiatives from concept to execution.
• Demonstrated ability to balance scientific leadership with hands-on laboratory execution in a fast-paced, resource-constrained environment.
• Experience developing, implementing, and scaling high-throughput laboratory workflows, automation solutions, and sequencing operations.
• Strong communication, influence, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated creativity, scientific rigor, and an entrepreneurial mindset.

Requirements

• Expertise in RNA biology, RNA sequencing, small RNA analysis, transcriptomics, or related technologies.
• Experience in agricultural biotechnology, plant biology, or RNA-based technologies.
• Working knowledge of sequencing data analysis workflows and computational methods.
• LOCATION: Cambridge, MA or Durham, NC
• ABOUT FLAGSHIP PIONEERING:
• Flagship has been recognized twice on FORTUNE's "Change the World" list, an annual ranking of companie

Benefits

Additional Information

COMPANY DESCRIPTION Founded through Flagship Pioneering's venture creation engine, Terrana Biosciences is a cutting-edge agricultural biotechnology company developing innovative RNA-based products to address global agricultural challenges. We are committed to advancing sustainable farming solutions through precision technologies that ensure environmental safety and regulatory compliance.

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