Senior Research Associate

About the Role

The Product Development Sr. Research Associate will contribute to the design, execution, and participation in experiments and tasks to support oncology product development, verification, and validation (V&V) studies under design control for next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays. We seek a meticulous and dedicated candidate with direct laboratory experience in assay development, capable of working effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure the highest quality clinical assays are developed and launched for patients. The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic, driven professional eager to learn, flexible, enjoys multitasking, and possesses strong wet lab skills.

Responsibilities

• With some supervision, design and execute low to moderate complexity experimental workflows, including cfDNA extraction, library preparation for NGS using both manual and automated platforms, and employing various molecular biology and standard laboratory methods in accordance with SOPs and work instructions.
• Assist with the design, planning, and execution of experiments to support the development and V&V of oncology assays.
• Maintain detailed and organized electronic laboratory notebooks and accurate records of lab work using software such as Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, and internal databases.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical and analytical tools.
• Assist in drafting documentation, including study protocols, reports, SOPs, and work instructions.
• Coordinate across multiple internal teams to ensure timely execution of studies.
• Adapt to handle multiple tasks and priorities, and perform other duties as assigned.
• Learn the science behind ongoing research projects while actively completing increasingly complex tasks.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or a related field with a minimum of 4 years of laboratory and/or relevant industry experience, or an MS with 0-2 years of relevant experience.

Skills

• Hands-on experience with DNA extraction from biological samples (e.g., blood, plasma, tissue) and BLS1, BLS2 experience.
• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (purification, quantification, amplification using PCR, qPCR, Quant-IT/Qubit, BioAnalyzer, or TapeStation).
• Hands-on experience with NGS library preparation and Illumina sequencing platforms is highly preferred.
• Experience in a regulatory environment under IVD, CLIA/CAP is highly desired.
• Experience in implementing, optimizing, and troubleshooting high-throughput automated assays using liquid handling techniques.
• Knowledge of statistical methods and techniques to contribute to analytical studies is desired.
• Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced lab under minimal supervision, managing multiple tasks and priorities with minimal errors is highly desired.
• Effective communication skills, including gathering information from different teams, communicating with suppliers, writing protocols, and summarizing results in reports or presentations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs and Google Drive (Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms).
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with creative and analytical thinking.
• Team player with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective working relationships within functional areas.

About the Company

Natera™ is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Our mission is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of the standard of care to protect health and enable earlier, more targeted interventions that lead to longer, healthier lives. The Natera team consists of highly dedicated professionals, including statisticians, geneticists, doctors, laboratory scientists, business professionals, software engineers, and others from world-class institutions. When you join Natera, you’ll work hard, grow quickly, and collaborate with industry leaders while contributing to meaningful advancements in genetic disease management.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
• Free testing for Natera employees and their immediate families, along with fertility care benefits.
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave.
• 401k benefits.
• Commuter benefits.
• Generous employee referral program.