Senior Scientist R&D

Natera · San Carlos, CA · Other

Posted 2026-10-21

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SENIOR SCIENTIST, Molecular Biology R&D

Location: San Carlos, CA

Department: Molecular Biology, Informatics, and Statistics

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are looking for a Senior Scientist to join our highly collaborative Molecular Biology Research team. The Senior Scientist, will plan, design, and execute laboratory research to advance Natera’s growing liquid biopsy-based early cancer detection product portfolio. For this role, we require a candidate with experience developing NGS assays, with the ideal candidate having a demonstrated track record of creatively applying multiomic approaches to oncology applications.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Contributes intellectually and creatively to research and development planning and innovation

Advances novel nucleic acid based diagnostic tests including, planning, feasibility testing, protocol development, optimization, and transfer to Development

Responsible for project-associated timeline and deliverable planning and management

Thoroughly comprehends the objectives and vision of the work

Independently develops generates and advances new ideas

Independently designs and executes high complexity experiments

Coordinates the execution and analysis of experiments with statistics and bioinformatics teams

Actively interacts and communicates with interdepartmental teams such as Operations, Program Management, Bioinformatics, Data Science, Engineering, Translational Science, and Product

Documents research progress under a Quality Management System

Communicates progress directly with manager and colleagues.

Performs basic data analysis (e.g. R, JMP, Excel)

May manage research associates

Employee must complete training relating to HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure

Compliance training and security training as soon as possible but not later than the first 30 days of hire

Must maintain a current status on Natera training requirements

Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

Ph.D. in molecular biology, genomics, biochemistry or a closely related field

Minimum of 5 - 8 years of industry experience or 2+ years post-doctoral research and 3+ years of industry experience

REQUIRED SKILLS:

Must have extensive experience designing, executing, analyzing data and problem solving of next generation sequencing (NGS) and DNA molecular biology experiments

Track record of originating, developing and/or productizing novel nucleic acid and multiomic workflows and tests

Strong research skills with a history of innovation and scientific accomplishment.

Must have excellent communication, organizational, record-keeping, planning, time management and analytical skills

Demonstrated success in applying independent scientific judgment in experimental design and analysis

PREFERRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

Cancer research experience is desired

Experience with approaches such as: epigenetic/methylation analysis, target capture/enrichment, WGS, proteomics

cfDNA experience is a significant plus

Experience with automation is a preferred

Skilled at writing clear plans, reports and SOPs

Compensation & Total Rewards

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.

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

Compensation Range

$116,800—$146,000 USD

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