Associate Scientist R&D

About the role

Natera is seeking an Associate Scientist to join the R&D Platform team to assist in developing scalable assays for our genomic product portfolio. You will focus on creating and validating tests for oncology treatment and monitoring by applying your expertise in NGS and laboratory automation. In this capacity, you will own the end-to-end translation of scientific concepts into robust, documented assays that meet regulatory and quality standards. The role requires a hands-on contributor who leverages deep molecular biology knowledge to solve complex analytical challenges in a high-throughput environment. You will be responsible for ensuring that experiments are reproducible, data is reliable, and results are communicated effectively to cross-functional partners. This position is integral to advancing the company's mission of improving patient outcomes through precise genomic information. You will work closely with diverse scientific teams to iterate on methods and drive projects from initial design through successful validation.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and execute laboratory experiments including analyte extraction, NGS library preparation, hybrid capture, and sequencing.
• Develop and validate assays to support commercial product launches across multiple therapeutic areas.
• Analyze experimental data and troubleshoot laboratory protocols to resolve deviations and optimize performance.
• Document scientific findings, SOPs, and reports within a Quality Management System to ensure compliance and traceability.
• Coordinate with a multidisciplinary group of bioinformaticians, statisticians, biologists, and engineers to align on project goals and data interpretation.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation and automation platforms to support scalable and efficient workflows.
• Implement quality controls and metrics to monitor assay performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to define assay requirements and translate product needs into technical specifications.
• Contribute to the creation of internal tools and frameworks that standardize data analysis and reporting practices.
• Mentor junior team members on best practices for laboratory execution and scientific documentation.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and methodologies to assess potential integration into existing assay platforms.
• Support method transfer activities between development and production environments to ensure seamless scalability.

Requirements

• Bachelor degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field with 4-6 years of life science industry experience, OR a Master degree with 2+ years of industry experience.
• Proficiency in NGS and molecular biology techniques, specifically DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, and multiplex PCR.
• Ability to perform manual high-throughput pipetting and sample testing with precision and accuracy.
• Experience writing technical reports and standard operating procedures that adhere to regulatory expectations.
• Capability to perform independent scientific judgment and experimental design to address ambiguous project goals.
• Strong attention to detail and demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to following standard operating procedures and quality management system guidelines consistently.
• Willingness to participate in on-call rotations or flexible scheduling to support assay validation and troubleshooting as needed.
• Understanding of good laboratory practices and data integrity principles is mandatory.
• Must be able to work effectively in a team-based setting and communicate clearly with technical and non-technical audiences.

Nice to have

• Background in oncology, liquid biopsy, solid tumor research, transplant, or NIPT.
• Proficiency in programming or operating liquid handling robotics.
• Experience with Python or R programming.

Practical notes

• Compensation includes an annual performance bonus, long-term equity, 401(k) matching, and comprehensive health benefits.
• Natera provides fertility care benefits and free testing for employees and immediate family.
• Official communication will only originate from a natera.com email address; the company does not conduct interviews via text message.
• This role is based in South San Francisco and requires onsite presence as the position is laboratory-focused.
• Full-time engagement is expected with standard business hours and potential flexibility to support project timelines.
• Travel is not currently required for this role but may be subject to business needs in the future.
• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background checks and verification of credentials.
• Candidates must have the legal right to work in the United States without sponsorship for this position.
• The job description is intended to convey relevant details regarding the position and is not an exhaustive list of duties.
• Natera is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes diverse candidates to apply.
• All information provided on this page is derived from the official source and has not been altered or inferred beyond the provided text.
• Applicants are encouraged to review the full context of the posting to ensure alignment with their qualifications and career interests.