Senior Scientist R&D

Position Summary

Natera is a global leader in cell-free DNA testing. We measure fetal, tumor, or donor cfDNA at the molecular level to help inform personalized healthcare decisions with a non-invasive test. The Natera R&D Department is looking for a highly motivated Senior Scientist to join the rapidly growing assay development team to help build the future of Natera. In this position, you will be an integral part of high-performing teams across functions to develop laboratory tests that positively impact the business and our patients.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead technical projects and associated timelines and deliverables as a subject matter expert and represent the assay development group in cross-functional project teams.
• Drive the planning, design, execution, and reporting of feasibility, development, verification and validation studies under the design control quality system.
• Collaborate closely with research scientists, automation engineers, biostatisticians and data scientists within a dynamic R&D team to develop new and innovative molecular assays.
• Communicate and document experimental data, scientific findings, and recommendations to R&D and other functions including Lab Operations, Scientific Affairs, Product Management, Quality, and Regulatory groups.
• May manage Research Associates.

Qualifications

• Typically requires a university degree and a minimum of 8+ years of related experience or a MS degree and 6 years of related experience or a PhD and 4 years of related experience.
• Knowledge of high throughput NGS workflows or other genetic testing applications in clinical settings.
• Experience in developing and validating molecular assays for CLIA lab testing.
• Experience with automation of molecular workflows or assay transfer to automated platforms.
• Experience in managing projects.
• Must possess very strong interpersonal, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Advanced technical proficiency in: NGS assay development using Illumina sequencing platforms, qPCR, ddPCR, and multiplex PCR.
• Experience in long-range PCR techniques and long-read sequencing technologies is a plus.
• Hands-on experience with high-throughput sample processing and automated liquid handling systems in a CLIA-regulated lab.
• Advanced data analysis skills utilizing tools such as JMP and Excel, comfort with programming languages like Python and R, and proficiency with bioinformatics tools and platforms.
• Knowledge of design verification/validation processes compliant with the U.S. and E.U. regulatory standards.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and demonstrated success in collaborative and individual projects.