Staff Scientist, R&D
POSITION SUMMARY:
Initiates and executes pre-clinical scientific research and development in the Molecular Biology Research team. Focuses on advancing Natera’s transplant assessment portfolio and works within a research team inventing and evaluating new technologies for applications in transplant assessment, oncology, and NIPT. Investigates the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and concepts to potential inventions, products and problems. Plans and executes laboratory research. Maintains broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Contributes substantially and intellectually to research or development
Performs duties largely independent from manager
Leads in-lab efforts to create and develop novel nucleic acid based diagnostic tests
Thoroughly comprehends the objectives and vision of the work
Independently develops plans, generates and advances new ideas
Independently designs and executes moderate to high complexity experiments
Coordinates the execution and analysis of effective experiments with statistics and bioinformatics teams
Performs basic data analysis (e.g. R, JMP, Excel)
Documents research progress under a Quality Management System
Interacts with on-site CLIA lab, Sequencing and Process Development groups
Works with partners and outside collaborations
Communicates progress directly with colleagues and senior management
This role works with PHI on a regular basis both in paper and electronic form and has access to various technologies to access PHI (paper and electronic) in order to perform the job
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.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Degree in molecular biology, tissue or cellular biology, immunology or closely related field
Associate Scientist level: Bachelor’s degree or higher with a minimum of 6 years of industry experience
Scientist level: M.S with a minimum of 10 years of industry experience; or Ph.D. with a minimum of 8 years of industry experience
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Must have experience with next generation sequencing (NGS) and DNA/RNA molecular biology.
Experience with nucleic acid technologies relating to PCR, qPCR, multiplex PCR, digital PCR, NGS and microarrays
Epigenetic/methylation, target enrichment, cfDNA/RNA and NGS data analysis experience is a plus
Track record of originating, developing and productizing novel nucleic acid techniques and tests
Strong research skills with a history of innovation
Experience developing tests in transplant assessment, oncology, NIPT or liquid biopsy a plus
Proven success in collaborative and individual projects
Demonstrated success in applying independent scientific judgment in experimental design and analysis
Very strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Adept with Excel and basic statistical analysis
Bioinformatic capabilities, programming (e.g. PERL, python) and databases experience (SQL) are a plus
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