Staff Scientist, Research (DNA methylation)

Primary Responsibilities

Lead and manage the development of innovative NGS-based diagnostic assays from feasibility through optimization.

Define project goals and plans with input from stakeholders and manage multiple project streams in parallel.

Independently design and execute complex laboratory experiments; analyze and interpret results to guide research direction.

Collaborate closely with bioinformatics, statistics, and data science teams to ensure robust experimental design and data analysis.

Mentor and guide junior scientists while promoting scientific rigor and best practices.

Author high-quality protocols, technical reports, and study documentation.

Communicate progress regularly to stakeholders, including departmental meetings and senior leadership.

Contribute to risk management, strategy development, and continuous improvement of scientific workflows.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, genomics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum 8 years of relevant industry experience, or 2+ years postdoctoral research with 6+ years in industry.
• Proven experience in designing and advancing NGS-based diagnostics, preferably in the field of oncology.

Required Expertise

• Deep technical foundation in molecular biology or chemistry.
• Extensive hands-on experience with NGS-based methylation detection and epigenomic workflows.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design and execute complex experiments (solid DOE skills).
• Creativity and ingenuity in solving high-ambiguity technical challenges.
• Experience leading research projects in an industrial setting.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with cfDNA or liquid biopsy assay development.
• Deep mechanistic knowledge of NGS library preparation chemistry.
• Familiarity with translating early-stage research assays toward regulated product environments.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis tools such as Excel, JMP, R, or Python; familiarity with bioinformatics workflows is a plus.

Compensation & Total Rewards

Compensation Range: $157,300 - $196,600 USD

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

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.

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!