Staff Scientist R&D

Natera · San Carlos, CA · Other

Posted 2026-10-21

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STAFF SCIENTIST, Molecular Biology R&D

Location: San Carlos, CA

Department: Molecular Biology, Informatics, and Statistics

POSITION SUMMARY:

Natera is looking for a highly motivated and creative Staff Scientist to be a key member of our Molecular Biology Research Team. As a successful candidate, you will work on initiating, directing and driving to completion pre-product scientific research to expand Natera's state-of-the-art product portfolio in early cancer detection. Candidates with a proven track record developing NGS and multiomic assays will be considered, with a preference for oncology experience.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Independently lead projects to create and develop novel nucleic acid based diagnostic tests; including planning, feasibility testing, protocol development, and optimization

Contribute to the overall success of projects

Responsible for executing projects to associated timelines and deliverables

Work cross functionally with other groups such as bioinformatics, development, product, and project management teams

Mentor, direct and assist junior scientific staff setting an example for good scientific practices and rigor

Write experimental reports, summaries and protocols

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

Assist with strategy, risk management, documentation, and improvement of processes, as needed

QUALIFICATIONS:

Ph.D. in molecular biology or closely related field

Minimum of 8 years of industry experience or 2+ years of post-doctoral research and 6+ years of industry experience

REQUIRED SKILLS:

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

Track record of innovating and scientific accomplishment including, developing novel nucleic acid and multiomic techniques and tests

Demonstrated success in thinking creatively and independently in experimental design and analysis

Experience leading complex research projects to completion

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

PREFERRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

Cancer research experience is desired

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

cfDNA experience is a significant plus

Experience with automation is a plus

Experience managing and providing basic leadership to research associates and junior scientists

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

$157,300—$196,600 USD

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