Manager of Bioinformatics (Oncology Product Development)

Natera is currently seeking a Bioinformatics Manager to join the Bioinformatics team focused on Oncology Product Development. In this role, the individual will manage a team of Bioinformaticians and Data Scientists and provide technical leadership in the design, development and validation of ctDNA-based diagnostic tests. This position requires extensive cross-functional collaboration with biostatistics, molecular biology, software engineering and commercial departments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in bioinformatics and data science, optimally with experience in the LDT assay development space, and an established record of project and technical leadership.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide technical leadership for product development projects by representing the bioinformatics team in cross-functional interactions and moving products through the full development process through validation and commercial launch.
• Lead the effort to optimize workflows, improve tools and pressure test analysis pipelines for diagnostic tests, including the detection of cancer-associated variants and the implementation of evidence-based quality control thresholds.
• Supervise bioinformatics scientists and data scientists, managing their technical contributions, prioritizing resources, and taking responsibility for their technical and professional development.
• Provide input on experiment design, analysis and interpretation based on expert understanding of Natera’s technology and relevant mathematical principles.
• Work at a high level of independence and responsibilities in carrying out assignments.
• Contribute to our intellectual property portfolio.
• Set standards for rigorous data analysis and lead the production of high-quality documentation. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Requirements:

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a quantitative discipline (bioinformatics, engineering, applied mathematics, statistics, or similar).
• Minimum of 4-8 years of post-graduate experience in a data science and/or bioinformatics role and 1-3 years of experience as technical lead in diagnostics or a related field
• Experience moving algorithm-based products through commercialization and launch in a medical or biological application such as diagnostic testing, medical imaging, or biotechnology
• 1-2 years of management experience leading a technical team with demonstrable evidence of leadership and team management skills.

Desirable, but not required:

• Prior experience analyzing cancer-associated variant detection data

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Experience using Python or R for scientific data analysis and visualization.
• Strong foundation in statistical modeling/machine learning, including probability theory and estimation/classification methods.
• Experience with analysis of next-generation sequencing data, preferably including algorithm development or optimization.
• Proven ability to apply mathematical principles to solve real estimation problems and implement practical solutions.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills to independently make sound judgments and find creative solutions to moderately complex problems.
• Experience leading technical projects, including defining and meeting project milestones, delegating tasks to more junior team members, and ensuring the quality of technical deliverables.
• Excellent communication skills and the desire to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

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.