POSITION SUMMARY:
Join Natera’s Oncology Product Development team as a Scientist focusing on Assay Development. You will build, validate, and troubleshoot next-generation sequencing (NGS) and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) assays used in liquid biopsy and Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) testing. Every sample represents a real person, and your work will directly impact patient care by ensuring our assays meet strict clinical diagnostic standards.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Design development, verification, and validation studies using stakeholder input, driving milestones to completion within established timelines
- Integrate automated workflows with digital tracking systems, including Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) such as LabVantage, and execute integration testing
- Think team by partnering directly with biostatistics, bioinformatics, and lab operations to root-cause issues using data, communicating clearly without translation layers
- Plan and execute moderate to high complexity experiments, and perform primary data analysis using tools like Excel and JMP
- Provide unvarnished, data-backed updates at project and departmental meetings regarding progress, outcomes, and next steps
- Author clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), study reports, and transfer documents for production implementation
- Train team members on new SOPs and automated workflows, and provide troubleshooting support to lab operations
- Adapt to evolving science and operational needs, taking ownership of tasks that move the work forward
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Ph.D. with a minimum of 2 years of industry experience, or a Master's degree with a minimum of 5 years of industry experience
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Deep technical understanding of chemistry underlying nucleic acid extraction, PCR, NGS library preparation, and hybrid capture technologies
- Ability to independently design experiments, interpret data, and determine the next scientific step
- Extensive hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, specifically NGS, PCR/qPCR, and nucleic acid extraction and quantification
- Experience building automated workflows and executing Laboratory Developed Tests (LDT) under CLIA/CAP guidelines is highly desired
- Ability to manage multiple priorities while operating with pace and precision
- Clear, direct communication and presentation skills with strict attention to detail
- An ownership mindset that identifies gaps, tests assumptions with data, and executes without waiting for a finished playbook
- Proven ability to author clear, precise project plans, study protocols, 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,