Overview As Staff Scientist in Natera's Molecular Biology Research Team, you drive the development of methylation-based NGS technologies for oncology diagnostics. You will lead project squads from ideation to implementation, shaping novel assays and optimizing workflows. You'll work cross-functionally with bioinformatics, statistics, and data science to ensure robust designs and impactful results. This role offers a chance to advance cutting-edge cfDNA solutions and mentor the next generation of scientists.
Compensation / Benefits- Annual performance incentive bonus
- Long-term equity awards
- Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
- 401(k) with company match
- Generous paid time off and holidays
- Fertility care benefits and life/disability plans
Responsibilities- Lead development of innovative NGS-based diagnostic assays from feasibility to optimization
- Define project goals, plans, and manage multiple streams in parallel
- Independently design and execute complex laboratory experiments and interpret results
- Coordinate cross-functional efforts with bioinformatics, statistics, and data science teams
- Mentor junior scientists and promote scientific rigor
- Author protocols, technical reports, and study documentation
- Communicate progress to stakeholders and leadership
- Contribute to risk management, strategy development, and continuous improvement of workflows
Key requirements- Ph.D. in molecular biology, genomics, or related field
- Minimum 8 years of industry experience, or 2+ years postdoc with 6+ years in industry
- Proven experience in designing/advancing NGS-based diagnostics, preferably oncology
- strong collaboration and leadership
- excellent communication and time management
- ability to translate complex questions into actionable experiments
- Hands-on experience with NGS platforms and sample/library prep
- Target enrichment methods (multiplex PCR, hybrid capture)
- DNA/RNA manipulation and epigenomics/methylation detection
