Scientist, R&D

POSITION SUMMARY:   

Natera is seeking an innovative Scientist, R&D to join Natera’s Oncology Product Development Team. We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated candidate with experience in next generation sequencing (NGS) assay development, validation, and troubleshooting to ensure that the highest quality clinical assays are developed and launched for our patients. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Design development, verification, and validation studies with stakeholder input and coordinate efforts to achieve milestones within established timelines
• Lead the integration of automated workflows with digital systems, such as LIMS and LabVantage (LV). Support the design and execution of integration testing
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to identify the root cause of problems and develop solutions to resolve problems effectively
• Plan and execute moderate to high complexity experiments
• Perform basic data analysis (e.g. Excel, JMP). Coordinate the analysis of studies with biostatistics and bioinformatics teams
• Provide regular updates at project team and departmental meetings on project progress, outcomes, and next steps to ensure alignment and transparency
• Author and review SOPs, study reports, and transfer documents for production implementation
• Train team members on new SOPs and automated workflows
• Provide support to lab operations, including troubleshooting and providing technical guidance
• Be flexible to handle multiple tasks and priorities, and perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Ph.D with a minimum of 2 years of industry experience or Master's degree with a minimum of 5 years of industry experience required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Strong understanding of the chemistry underlying nucleic acid extraction, PCR, NGS library preparation, and hybrid capture technologies
• Must be able to independently design and execute experiments, interpret results, and decide on next steps
• Must have extensive hands-on experience with various molecular biology techniques including but not limited to: NGS, PCR/qPCR, and nucleic acid extraction and quantification
• Experience with the development of automated workflows is highly desired
• LDT product development and validation experience is highly desired
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Proficient in data analysis using tools such as Excel or JMP
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills with meticulous attention to detail
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and demonstrated success in collaborative and individual projects
• Demonstrated ability to write clear project plans, study protocols and reports, and SOPs

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.