Associate Scientist R&D

Primary Responsibilities

• Independently design experimental plans and execute laboratory experiments of a defined scope such as analyte extractions, next-generation library preparation, hybrid capture and sequencing.
• Collaborate with project teams to design, develop, and validate assays for commercial launch.
• Contribute insights toward experimental findings and troubleshoot laboratory processes and protocols.
• Perform basic data analysis.
• Communicate and discuss results with a multidisciplinary team including biologists, bioinformaticians, statisticians, software engineers and managers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or closely related field with 4-6 years experience in assay development for the life science industry.
• Master’s in molecular biology, biochemistry or closely related field, with 2+ years of industry experience.
• Expertise in next-generation sequencing (NGS) and DNA/RNA molecular biology, including DNA/RNA extraction from tissue and biofluids, library preparation, hybrid capture, qPCR, and multiplex PCR.
• Proficiency in basic data and statistical analysis using tools such as R, JMP, or Excel.
• Demonstrated success in applying independent scientific judgment in experimental design and analysis.
• Experience in optimizing laboratory methodologies and troubleshooting complex problems.
• Strong communication, organizational, record-keeping, planning, and time management skills.
• Must be able to handle manual work/pipetting involving high throughput sample testing.
• Experience in writing clear plans, reports and SOPs.
• Experience in oncology, solid tumor and liquid biopsy, transplant, or NIPT research is a plus.
• Experience in programming and operating liquid handlers is a plus.
• Experience in programming languages such as python or R is a plus.

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 $89,900—$112,350 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.

What We Offer

• Competitive 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!

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the position, please contact us at [email protected].