Great perks, not so great culture. - Research Assistant Genentech Employee Review

3.0
Nov 25, 2008
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Benefits are phenominal, very easy to take vacation and flexible. The gym is great, cafeterias are quality and not too expensive. On site ping-pong tournaments are another perk too.

Cons

Promotions are very obscure and roles are very defined. A feeling of compartmentalization in this giant firm leaves me looking for more. Projects are so large and research is so slow that I feel removed from my work and have little ownership.

Explore other reviews about Genentech

5.0
Jun 6, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great salary and team! The interview process was smooth and effective.

Cons

To be determined, but so far many alignment meetings. Some folks have frustuations around the re-org and strategy changes.

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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