10X Genomics Software Engineer Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

10X Genomics is a pioneering company dedicated to delivering advanced tools that drive significant scientific discoveries and enhance our understanding of biology to improve human health.

As a Software Engineer at 10X Genomics, you will play a crucial role in developing innovative software solutions that integrate seamlessly with biological instrumentation and cloud infrastructure. This position requires deep expertise in programming languages such as Python, C++, and Rust, as well as a solid grasp of low-level systems, threading, and real-time control systems. You will be responsible for hands-on coding, architecting next-generation software, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team that includes biologists, engineers, and product managers. A successful candidate will demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, a commitment to high-quality software development, and a passion for tackling complex challenges. The ideal candidate will also possess knowledge of cloud technologies, with experience in developing scalable applications for processing large datasets.

This guide will empower you to prepare effectively for your interview at 10X Genomics by providing insights into the role and the skills that will be evaluated, allowing you to showcase your strengths and align your experiences with the company's values and goals.

10X Genomics Software Engineer Interview Questions

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Software Engineer interview at 10X Genomics. The interview will assess your technical skills in software development, particularly in languages like Python, C++, and Go, as well as your understanding of cloud infrastructure, embedded systems, and collaborative problem-solving in a scientific context. Be prepared to demonstrate your coding abilities, system design knowledge, and your approach to building reliable and maintainable software.

Technical Skills

1. Can you explain the differences between threading and multiprocessing in Python?

Understanding concurrency is crucial for developing efficient software.

How to Answer

Discuss the use cases for each approach, emphasizing the benefits and limitations of threading versus multiprocessing, particularly in the context of I/O-bound versus CPU-bound tasks.

Example

“Threading is useful for I/O-bound tasks where the program spends time waiting for external resources, while multiprocessing is better for CPU-bound tasks as it allows for parallel execution across multiple CPU cores. For instance, in a data processing application, I would use threading to handle multiple file reads simultaneously, but I would opt for multiprocessing to perform heavy computations on large datasets.”

2. Describe your experience with embedded systems and how you approach firmware development.

This question assesses your hands-on experience with hardware-software integration.

How to Answer

Highlight specific projects where you developed firmware, focusing on the challenges faced and how you overcame them.

Example

“In my previous role, I developed firmware for a medical device that required real-time data processing. I utilized C++ for low-level hardware control and implemented a state machine to manage device states efficiently. Rigorous testing was essential, so I created automated test scripts to validate functionality before deployment.”

3. How do you ensure the quality and maintainability of your code?

Quality assurance is vital in software development, especially in a scientific context.

How to Answer

Discuss your practices for writing clean code, including testing, code reviews, and documentation.

Example

“I follow best practices such as writing unit tests for all new features and conducting code reviews with my peers. I also adhere to coding standards and use tools like linters to maintain code quality. Additionally, I document my code thoroughly to ensure that it is understandable for future developers.”

4. What strategies do you use for debugging complex systems?

Debugging is a critical skill for any software engineer.

How to Answer

Explain your systematic approach to identifying and resolving issues in software.

Example

“When debugging complex systems, I start by reproducing the issue consistently. I then use logging to gather insights into the system's state at various points. If necessary, I employ tools like debuggers to step through the code. I also collaborate with team members to gain different perspectives on the problem.”

5. Can you discuss your experience with cloud services, particularly AWS?

Cloud infrastructure is a key component of modern software development.

How to Answer

Share specific projects where you utilized AWS services, focusing on architecture and scalability.

Example

“I designed a cloud-based application on AWS that processed genomic data. I used S3 for storage, Lambda for serverless computing, and RDS for relational database management. This architecture allowed us to scale efficiently as data volume increased, and I implemented monitoring tools to ensure system reliability.”

System Design

1. How would you design a system to manage petabytes of genomic data?

This question tests your system architecture skills.

How to Answer

Outline your approach to data storage, processing, and retrieval, considering scalability and performance.

Example

“I would use a distributed file system like HDFS for storing large datasets, combined with a NoSQL database for metadata management. For processing, I would implement a data pipeline using AWS services like EMR for batch processing and Lambda for real-time data processing. This design would ensure scalability and efficient data access.”

2. Describe a time when you had to collaborate with cross-functional teams. How did you ensure effective communication?

Collaboration is essential in a multidisciplinary environment.

How to Answer

Provide an example of a project where you worked with different teams, emphasizing your communication strategies.

Example

“During a project to develop a new instrument, I collaborated with hardware engineers and biologists. I scheduled regular meetings to align on goals and used collaborative tools like JIRA to track progress. I also made sure to document decisions and share updates to keep everyone informed.”

3. What considerations do you take into account when designing user interfaces for scientific applications?

User experience is critical, especially in complex scientific tools.

How to Answer

Discuss your approach to UI design, focusing on usability and accessibility.

Example

“I prioritize user-centered design by conducting user research to understand the needs of scientists. I ensure that the interface is intuitive and provides clear visualizations of complex data. Additionally, I incorporate feedback from users throughout the development process to refine the UI.”

4. How do you approach performance optimization in your applications?

Performance is key in handling large datasets and complex computations.

How to Answer

Explain your strategies for identifying and addressing performance bottlenecks.

Example

“I use profiling tools to identify slow parts of the application and analyze resource usage. Once I pinpoint bottlenecks, I optimize algorithms, reduce unnecessary computations, and leverage caching strategies to improve performance. For instance, in a data processing pipeline, I implemented parallel processing to significantly reduce execution time.”

5. Can you explain the importance of continuous integration and deployment in software development?

Understanding CI/CD is crucial for modern software practices.

How to Answer

Discuss the benefits of CI/CD in maintaining code quality and accelerating development.

Example

“Continuous integration and deployment allow for rapid feedback on code changes, ensuring that new features do not introduce bugs. By automating testing and deployment processes, we can release updates more frequently and with greater confidence. This practice is especially important in a scientific context, where reliability is paramount.”

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview.

Embrace the Company’s Mission

10X Genomics is deeply committed to advancing human health through innovative biological tools. Familiarize yourself with their products and the scientific questions they aim to address. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with their mission, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to groundbreaking research.

Showcase Your Technical Expertise

As a Software Engineer, you will be expected to demonstrate a strong command of programming languages such as Python, C++, and Rust. Prepare to discuss your experience with instrument control software, embedded systems, and cloud-based applications. Highlight specific projects where you utilized these technologies, focusing on your problem-solving approach and the impact of your contributions.

Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios

Collaboration is key at 10X Genomics, where you will work alongside scientists, engineers, and product managers. Be ready to share examples of how you have successfully collaborated in cross-functional teams. Discuss your communication style and how you ensure that technical concepts are understood by non-technical stakeholders.

Focus on Quality and Testing

The company values high-quality software and maintainable codebases. Be prepared to discuss your approach to testing and quality assurance. Share specific methodologies you have employed, such as unit testing, integration testing, or continuous integration practices, and how they have improved the reliability of your software.

Demonstrate a Growth Mindset

10X Genomics encourages its employees to pursue new ideas and follow their passions. Show your willingness to learn and adapt by discussing instances where you ventured into unfamiliar areas or technologies. Highlight your curiosity and how it has driven your professional development.

Understand the Importance of Biology

While a background in biology is not required, having a genuine interest in the field can set you apart. Familiarize yourself with basic biological concepts and the significance of the research being conducted at 10X Genomics. This will not only help you connect with your interviewers but also demonstrate your commitment to the company’s goals.

Prepare for Behavioral Questions

Expect behavioral questions that assess your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and adaptability. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses, ensuring you provide clear and concise examples that showcase your abilities and experiences.

Be Ready to Discuss Future Technologies

10X Genomics is at the forefront of technological innovation. Stay informed about emerging trends in software development, cloud computing, and biological research. Be prepared to discuss how you can leverage these technologies to contribute to the company’s future projects and initiatives.

Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the company and the role. Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, and how success is measured within the engineering team. This will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and help you assess if the company is the right fit for you.

By following these tips, you will be well-prepared to showcase your skills and align yourself with the values and mission of 10X Genomics. Good luck!

The interview process for a Software Engineer role at 10X Genomics is structured to assess both technical skills and cultural fit within the company. Candidates can expect a multi-step process that includes various types of interviews, each designed to evaluate different competencies relevant to the role.

1. Initial Screening

The process typically begins with an initial screening conducted by a recruiter. This 30-minute phone call focuses on understanding the candidate's background, skills, and motivations for applying to 10X Genomics. The recruiter will also provide insights into the company culture and the specifics of the Software Engineer role, ensuring that candidates have a clear understanding of what to expect.

2. Technical Assessment

Following the initial screening, candidates will undergo a technical assessment, which may be conducted via a coding challenge or a technical interview. This stage is crucial for evaluating the candidate's proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Rust, as well as their understanding of software development principles. Candidates should be prepared to solve coding problems in real-time and discuss their thought processes, as this will demonstrate their problem-solving abilities and technical expertise.

3. Behavioral Interview

After successfully completing the technical assessment, candidates will participate in a behavioral interview. This interview focuses on assessing soft skills, teamwork, and cultural fit within the organization. Interviewers will ask about past experiences, challenges faced in previous roles, and how candidates have collaborated with cross-functional teams. It’s essential to convey a strong sense of teamwork, adaptability, and a passion for innovation during this stage.

4. Onsite Interview

The final stage of the interview process is typically an onsite interview, which may be conducted virtually or in-person. This comprehensive round includes multiple interviews with team members and stakeholders from various departments. Candidates can expect to engage in technical discussions, system design exercises, and collaborative problem-solving scenarios. This stage is designed to assess not only technical skills but also how well candidates can communicate and work with others in a team setting.

5. Final Review

After the onsite interviews, the hiring team will conduct a final review of all candidates. This review will consider feedback from all interviewers, the candidate's performance in technical assessments, and their fit within the company culture. Candidates may receive an offer or feedback on their performance, regardless of the outcome.

As you prepare for your interview, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the types of questions that may be asked during each stage of the process.

1. Write a function calculate_rmse to calculate the root mean squared error of a regression model.

The function should take in two lists, one that represents the predictions y_pred and another with the target values y_true.

2. Write a query to get the last transaction for each day from a table of bank transactions.

Given a table of bank transactions with columns id, transaction_value, and created_at, write a query to get the last transaction for each day. The output should include the id of the transaction, datetime of the transaction, and the transaction amount. Order the transactions by datetime.

3. Write a function random_key that returns a key at random with a probability proportional to the weights.

Given a dictionary with weights, write a function random_key that returns a key at random with a probability proportional to the weights.

4. Write a function to get a sample from a standard normal distribution.

Create a function to generate a sample from a standard normal distribution.

5. Write an efficient function nearest_entries to find the closest element to N in a sorted list and return surrounding elements.

Given a sorted list of integers ints with no duplicates, write an efficient function nearest_entries that takes in integers N and k and returns the element closest to N along with the k-next and k-previous elements of the list.

To practice Algorithms interview questions, consider using the Python learning path or the full list of Algorithms questions in our database.

6. What metrics/graphs/models would you use to analyze churn behavior for Netflix’s pricing plans?

Netflix has two pricing plans: $15/month or $100/year. An executive wants an overarching view of how these subscriptions are performing. What kinds of metrics, graphs, and models would you build to analyze the churn behavior of users subscribing to either plan?

7. How would you build a model to predict which merchants DoorDash should acquire in a new market?

As a data scientist at DoorDash, how would you build a model to predict which merchants the company should target for acquisition when entering a new market?

8. How would you value the benefit of keeping a hit TV show on Netflix?

Netflix executives are considering renewing a deal with another TV network for exclusive streaming rights to a hit TV series. The show has been on Netflix for a year. How would you approach valuing the benefit of keeping this show on Netflix?

9. How would you measure and address the success of LinkedIn’s newsfeed ranking algorithm?

• How would you measure the success of LinkedIn’s newsfeed ranking algorithm?
• If some success metrics for the newsfeed algorithm are going up while others are going down, how would you approach this?

10. How would you determine if the results of an AB test for a landing page redesign are statistically significant?

We want to launch a redesign of a landing page to improve the click-through rate using an AB test. How would you infer if the results of the click-through rate were statistically significant or not?

To prepare for analytics and experiments, consider using the product metrics learning path and the data analytics learning path.

11. How would you explain what a p-value is to someone who is not technical?

Explain the concept of a p-value in simple terms to a non-technical person. Focus on its role in determining the significance of results in an experiment or study.

12. How many more samples would we need to decrease the margin of error from 3 to 0.3?

Given a sample size (n) with a margin of error of 3, calculate the additional number of samples required to reduce the margin of error to 0.3.

13. How would you determine if the results of an AB test on a landing page redesign are statistically significant?

Describe the process of analyzing AB test results to determine if the observed differences in click-through rates are statistically significant.

To prepare for statistics and probability interview questions, consider using the A/B testing and statistics learning path and the comprehensive probability learning path. These resources cover essential concepts and techniques to help you excel.

14. How would you build a model to predict which merchants DoorDash should acquire in a new market?

As a data scientist at DoorDash, how would you develop a model to identify which merchants the company should target for acquisition when entering a new market?

15. How would you assign point values to letters in a Spanish Scrabble game without knowing Spanish?

If you need to build a Scrabble game for Spanish users and you don’t know Spanish, how would you determine the point values for each letter?

To get ready for machine learning interview questions, we recommend taking the machine learning course.

Here are some quick tips to prepare for your software engineer interview at 10X Genomics:

• Understand the Core Technologies: Whether you’re applying for a data engineering or software development role, make sure you are familiar with the core technologies listed in the job description, such as Snowflake, Tableau, Python, React, and Node. Brush up on these technologies and understand how they are utilized in the industry.

• Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: 10X Genomics places a high value on strong problem-solving abilities and self-initiative. Be prepared for technical exercises or situational questions that will test your ability to address complex challenges effectively.

• Understand the Company’s Mission and Values: 10X Genomics is committed to biological research and discovery. Understanding their mission and dedication to scientific advancements, even if you’re applying for a tech role, can set you apart. Highlight any relevant experiences that align with their values and vision.

• Utilize Mock Interviews: You should plan to brush up on any technical skills and try a lot of practice interview questions and mock interviews as much as possible.

What’s the average salary for a software engineer role at 10X Genomics?

What are the usual responsibilities of a software engineer at 10X Genomics?

Software engineers at 10x Genomics are primarily responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software that supports genomic research. They collaborate with scientists and other engineers to create tools for analyzing large-scale genomic datasets. Their duties also include conducting code reviews, writing documentation, and ensuring software reliability through rigorous testing.

Are there any job openings for 10X Genomics?

Yes, there are openings for a software engineering role as of writing this interview guide (Sep 2024). Check out our job board to see openings for 10X Genomics and other companies!

Securing a software engineer role at 10x Genomics is a significant step toward working at the forefront of genomic research. For more comprehensive details about what to expect and how to prepare, check out our full 10x Genomics interview guide.

Good luck with your interview—we’re rooting for you!