Very intense, exciting place to work - Senior Scientist Genentech Employee Review

5.0
Apr 26, 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great benefits. A lot of opportunity to be involved in cutting edge science and technology and if you are in the right position you will make a big difference in someone's life. They give you a lot and expect a lot in return. Many super-smart type-A people all working towards a similar goals.

Cons

Too many meetings. Global organization means early TCs to Europe and late TCs to Asia most days. Depending on your job there can be a lot of travel. Work-life balance is not really optimal. It can be very difficult to get promoted.

Explore other reviews about Genentech

5.0
Jul 8, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great culture and work environment.

Cons

PhD is necessary oftentimes for advancement.

3.0
May 7, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Genentech's origin story and mission are genuinely inspiring — few companies can point to such a meaningful historical arc in medicine. Patient engagement is taken seriously and feels authentic, not performative. The campus is beautiful and the culture has real warmth.

Cons

DDA is operating with significant gaps. First, the foundational data infrastructure is not mature enough to support the ambitions being set for the team. Second, the measurement culture has gotten ahead of the methodology, and no one in a position of authority seems to be asking hard questions about whether the numbers actually mean what they're being presented as meaning. Third, some management feel disconnected from the work itself, lacking the knowledge, hands-on experience, or relevant credentials. Individually any one of these would be manageable. Together these create an environment where it's hard to do rigorous work, rather work is performative, and be recognized for it.

3
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