Senior Scientist R&D

Natera • San Carlos, CA

1d

About The Position

Natera is seeking a skilled Senior Scientist to join our Molecular Biology Research Team. As a Senior Scientist, you will design and execute epigenomics-based research to develop new methods that expand Natera’s oncology product portfolio. Successful candidates must have NGS experience with a strong background in molecular biology and methylation detection techniques.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, genomics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant industry experience, or successful postdoctoral research with 3+ years in industry.
• Extensive hands-on experience with NGS methods, including sample prep, library prep, target enrichment (e.g., multiplex PCR, hybrid capture), and sequencing.
• Must have strong research skills and sound scientific judgement with a proven track record of conceptualizing, prototyping, and advancing NGS technologies from initial concept to product development.
• Significant experience in developing and executing automated assays on liquid handlers (eg. Hamilton, Tecan)
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and contribute strategically to a team-driven research environment.
• Excellent communication, organizational, record-keeping, planning, time management, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with analysis tools such as Excel, JMP, R, or Python; familiarity with bioinformatics workflows is a plus
• Skilled at writing clear plans, reports and SOPs.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with epigenomic/methylation techniques and cfDNA is a plus.
• A background in oncology is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Contribute substantially and intellectually to research and development.
• Lead projects to create novel methylation-based diagnostic tests; including planning, testing, protocol development, optimization, and transfer to Development.
• Responsible for maintaining a project timeline, including deliverable planning/ management and communication of progress directly with manager and colleagues.
• Independently develop plans, generate and advance new ideas.
• Design and execute high complexity experiments and perform basic data analysis as needed (e.g. R, JMP, Excel).
• Coordinate complex analyses with statistics and bioinformatics teams.
• Actively interact and communicate with interdepartmental teams such as Program Management, Bioinformatics, Data Science, Engineering, Translational Science, and Product.
• May manage junior scientists and research associates.
• Document research progress under a Quality Management System.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous paid time off and company holidays
• Additional wellness and work-life benefits
• Employee benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
• Additionally, Natera employees and their immediate families receive free testing in addition to fertility care benefits.
• Other benefits include pregnancy and baby bonding leave, 401k benefits, commuter benefits and much more.
• We also offer a generous employee referral program!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree