SENIOR SCIENTIST, Molecular Biology R&D

Location: San Carlos, CA

Department: Molecular Biology, Informatics, and Statistics

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are looking for a Senior Scientist to join our highly collaborative Molecular Biology Research team. The Senior Scientist, will plan, design, and execute laboratory research to advance Natera’s growing liquid biopsy-based early cancer detection product portfolio. For this role, we require a candidate with experience developing NGS assays, with the ideal candidate having a demonstrated track record of creatively applying multiomic approaches to oncology applications.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Contributes intellectually and creatively to research and development planning and innovation
Advances novel nucleic acid based diagnostic tests including, planning, feasibility testing, protocol development, optimization, and transfer to Development
Responsible for project-associated timeline and deliverable planning and management
Thoroughly comprehends the objectives and vision of the work
Independently develops generates and advances new ideas
Independently designs and executes high complexity experiments
Coordinates the execution and analysis of experiments with statistics and bioinformatics teams
Actively interacts and communicates with interdepartmental teams such as Operations, Program Management, Bioinformatics, Data Science, Engineering, Translational Science, and Product
Documents research progress under a Quality Management System
Communicates progress directly with manager and colleagues.
Performs basic data analysis (e.g. R, JMP, Excel)
May manage research associates
Employee must complete training relating to HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure
Compliance training and security training as soon as possible but not later than the first 30 days of hire
Must maintain a current status on Natera training requirements
Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

Ph.D. in molecular biology, genomics, biochemistry or a closely related field
Minimum of 5 - 8 years of industry experience or 2+ years post-doctoral research and 3+ years of industry experience

REQUIRED SKILLS:

Must have extensive experience designing, executing, analyzing data and problem solving of next generation sequencing (NGS) and DNA molecular biology experiments
Track record of originating, developing and/or productizing novel nucleic acid and multiomic workflows and tests
Strong research skills with a history of innovation and scientific accomplishment.
Must have excellent communication, organizational, record-keeping, planning, time management and analytical skills
Demonstrated success in applying independent scientific judgment in experimental design and analysis

PREFERRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

Cancer research experience is desired
Experience with approaches such as: epigenetic/methylation analysis, target capture/enrichment, WGS, proteomics
cfDNA experience is a significant plus
Experience with automation is a preferred
Skilled at writing clear plans, reports and SOPs

Compensation & Total Rewards

This range reflects a good-faith estimate of the base pay we reasonably expect to offer at the time of hire. Final compensation will vary based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity considerations.

This position is also eligible for additional compensation and benefits through Natera’s robust Total Rewards program, including:

Annual performance incentive bonus

Long-term equity awards

Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)

401(k) with company match

Generous paid time off and company holidays

Additional wellness and work-life benefits

Compensation Range

$116,800—$146,000 USD

OUR OPPORTUNITY

Natera™ is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Our aim is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of the standard of care to protect health and enable earlier and more targeted interventions that lead to longer, healthier lives.

The Natera team consists of highly dedicated statisticians, geneticists, doctors, laboratory scientists, business professionals, software engineers and many other professionals from world-class institutions, who care deeply for our work and each other. When you join Natera, you’ll work hard and grow quickly. Working alongside the elite of the industry, you’ll be stretched and challenged, and take pride in being part of a company that is changing the landscape of genetic disease management.