Principal Scientist, Statistical Genetics & AI

Company: 23andMe Research Institute
Location: Palo Alto
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

With the world’s largest database of more than eleven million genotyped customers, 23andMe is at the forefront of using human genetics to advance biomedical research and transform healthcare. We are looking for a Principal Scientist, Statistical Genetics, with extensive training and experience to join our highly productive, world-class research team. Who We Are We are a group of individuals passionate about genetic discovery. 23andMe Research Institute is a nonprofit medical research organization that enables people everywhere to access their genetic information, learn about themselves, and participate in the world's largest crowdsourced research initiative. The Institute aims to be the world's most significant contributor to scientific advancement, uniting people with the common goal of improving health and deepening our understanding of DNA — the code of life. What You’ll Do The Principal Scientist will lead a team of statistical geneticists and provide scientific expertise on creating and using insights from human genetic data for various applications, including therapeutic target discovery, medical record analysis, and phenotype prediction. In this unique hybrid role, you will be expected to build an independent research program, while simultaneously executing on existing partnerships and identifying opportunities for new collaborations. You must possess world-class expertise in statistical genetics and a strong familiarity with AI/machine learning methodologies to drive discoveries in human health. What You’ll Bring You must have a deep understanding of statistical and/or population genetics, with a significant track record of scientific achievement that includes multiple years of experience leading development and implementation of novel methods and bioinformatics tools and executing independently developed ideas. These achievements should demonstrate your ability to balance scientific rigor with a pragmatic commitment to getting things done in the face of multiple competing priorities. You will also have a track record of collaboration with scientific thought leaders, and be expected to take an active role in engaging with external academic and industry scientists. Our team is very collaborative, and the ability to communicate ideas and results to other scientists and non-scientists in the context of business objectives is key. You should have a demonstrated ability to clearly and effectively communicate with a wide range of internal and external audiences, as well as experience building, mentoring, and leading teams of scientists. Scientific Expertise: PhD in Statistics, Statistical Genetics, Population Genetics, Computational Biology, AI, Machine Learning, or related field with at least ten years of experience post-PhD. Strong record of accomplishment, either through academic publications or successful industry achievements. Deep expertise in human statistical genetics. Experience in biopharmaceutical applications or sequencing data are desirable. Ability to work with senior scientific leadership to help represent the company at appropriate scientific, business, and other professional meetings. Deep expertise in design of experiments and analysis of complex data. Leadership Skills: Proven ability to mentor, train, and develop junior scientists. Ability to lead directly and by influence, including strong problem solving, conflict resolution, and analytical skills. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively. Exceptional interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and concisely with all stakeholders. About Us 23andMe, headquartered in California, is a leading consumer genetics and research company. The company’s mission is to help people access, understand, and benefit from the human genome. 23andMe has pioneered direct access to genetic information as the only company with multiple FDA authorizations for genetic health risk reports. The company has created the world’s largest crowdsourced platform for genetic research, with 80 percent of its customers electing to participate. 23andMe research participants consent to research conducted by 23andMe which is overseen by an independent third-party Institutional Review Board (IRB) regulated under the 'Common Rule' (45 CFR part 46). More information is available at www.23andme.com/research. At 23andMe, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at accommodations-ext@23andme.com. 23andMe will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities to the extent required by applicable law. Please note: 23andMe does not accept agency resumes and we are not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes. Thank you. Pay Transparency 23andMe takes a market-based approach to pay, and amounts will vary depending on your geographic location. The salary range reflected here is for a candidate based in the San Francisco Bay Area. The successful candidate’s starting pay will be determined based on job-related skills, experience, qualifications, work location, and market conditions. These ranges may be modified in the future. San Francisco Bay Area Base Pay Range $220,000—$260,000 USD

Keywords: 23andMe Research Institute, Gilroy , Principal Scientist, Statistical Genetics & AI, Science, Research & Development , Palo Alto, California