Senior Research Associate

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 health care decisions with a non-invasive test. We are looking for a highly motivated Senior Research Associate with a strong focus on process optimization and product verification studies to join the Early Cancer Detection product development team, joining a group of scientists who are tasked with developing and advancing Natera’s oncology product portfolio.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and validate automated high-throughput NGS assays that will be submitted to FDA and regulatory bodies, and be run in a commercial single-site IVD CLIA laboratory; Implement assigned technical projects and associated timelines and deliverables in NGS-based assays; Design and execute moderate to high complexity experiments and perform basic data analysis (e.g. JMP, Excel); Collaborate with other assay development scientists on the specifications of assay, reagent, equipment and quality metrics for future production assays; Work with Clinical Laboratory and Quality Assurance to ensure that developed methods meet Natera’s rigorous quality standards; Coordinate with multiple internal groups (automation engineering, laboratory operations, bioinformatics, statistics, project and product management) and serve as point person to ensure the successful identification and timely execution of projects; Write project protocols, reports and SOPs and train lab operations clinical lab scientists on procedures; Plan and execute verification activities; Identify areas for continuous improvement and actively contribute to the effort of introducing better practices to improve production workflows and shorten TAT for patient samples

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, or related field with 4+ years of relevant industry experience or M.S. degree in molecular biology or related field with a minimum of 2+ years of relevant industry experience in a research and/or assay development setting; Experience with IVD product development and design controls; Broad knowledge of molecular biology and chemistry; Ability to apply statistical principles to experiment design and analysis; In-depth understanding of design control methods; Experience with current NGS oncology diagnostics devices; Strong understanding of the chemistry underlying nucleic acid extraction, PCR, NGS library preparation, and hybrid capture technologies; Hands-on experience in reagent preparation and quality control for NGS-based assays; Experience with high-throughput automated assays utilizing liquid handler robots; Strong individual contributor as well as dedicated team player; Experience executing studies including stability, guard banding, reproducibility and repeatability; Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment under CLIA/CAP; Data analysis (JMP and Excel) required; Excellent communication, organizational, record-keeping, planning, attention to detail and time management skills; Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and to collaborate cross-functionally with other groups

Nice to have

Coding skills (Python or R); Liquid handler programming experience

Benefits

Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision); 401(k) with company match; Generous paid time off and company holidays; Additional wellness and work-life benefits; Life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents; Free testing for employees and their immediate families; Fertility care benefits; Pregnancy and baby bonding leave; Commuter benefits; Employee referral program