Scientist R&D

About the role

We are seeking an innovative Scientist to join Natera's Platform Technologies team within the Research & Development organization. In this impactful role, you will conduct pre-product research to develop and advance cutting-edge NGS technologies and expand Natera's growing technology portfolio by planning, designing, and executing laboratory research. You will investigate the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and concepts to potential products and problems, based on your broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories.

Responsibilities

• Contributes substantially and intellectually to research and development
• Leads research projects to design and demonstrate the feasibility of novel nucleic acid-based diagnostic methods
• Independently develops plans, generates ideas, and advances research objectives with minimal oversight
• Plans and executes complex laboratory experiments, analyzes data, and applies insights to guide and refine project direction
• Defines project plans with stakeholder input and coordinates efforts to achieve milestones within established timelines
• Coordinates the execution and analysis of effective experiments with statistics and bioinformatics teams
• Proposes, investigates, and implements innovative solutions to advance research objectives and overcome technical challenges
• Communicates progress directly with colleagues and senior management, providing regular updates on project outcomes and next steps

Requirements

• Ph.D. or equivalent in molecular biology, genomics, or a closely related discipline
• Minimum 2 years of industry experience post-Ph.D., or at least 1 year of industry experience following the completion of postdoctoral research
• Hands-on experience with Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies and sample preparation methods, including DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, target enrichment (e.g., multiplex PCR, hybrid capture), and DNA sequencers
• Experience conceptualizing, prototyping, and advancing NGS technologies from initial concept to product development
• Strong research skills with a track record of designing and implementing innovative and scalable solutions
• Demonstrated ability to exercise independent scientific judgment in experimental design and analysis
• Proficient in data analysis and statistical testing using tools such as Excel, JMP, R, or Python
• Proven success in partnering with bioinformatics and data science teams to drive project advancement
• Demonstrated ability to write clear project plans, study protocols, and standard operating procedures

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working within a CLIA lab environment or under a Quality Management System
• Experience with epigenetics/methylation, cfDNA/RNA, or digital PCR technologies
• Experience in transplant assessment, oncology, NIPT, or liquid biopsy applications
• Bioinformatics capabilities or programming experience (e.g., Python, R, SQL)

Benefits

• 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
• Free testing for Natera employees and their immediate families
• Fertility care benefits
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave
• Commuter benefits
• Generous employee referral program

Pay

Compensation Range: $116,800—$146,000 USD

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.