Staff Scientist, Research

About the role

Natera is seeking a Staff Scientist to join the Early Research Team to lead the development of next-generation sequencing technologies. You will guide projects from initial concept through to prototype, focusing on the design and optimization of complex methods for our oncology diagnostic portfolio. In this capacity, you will own the strategic direction of assigned programs, ensuring scientific rigor and technical feasibility are maintained at every stage. You will act as the primary technical authority for complex NGS-based initiatives, driving innovation from feasibility assessment through method maturation. The role requires you to translate high-level research goals into actionable experimental plans that balance ambition with practical constraints. You will be responsible for safeguarding data integrity and ensuring that all scientific outputs meet the highest standards of quality and reproducibility. This position offers the opportunity to shape the foundational technologies that define the future of precision oncology diagnostics within the company.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Direct the creation of NGS-based diagnostic assays from feasibility stages through final optimization, overseeing critical decision points.
• Establish project objectives and manage multiple workstreams simultaneously, ensuring alignment with strategic business and scientific goals.
• Conduct independent laboratory experiments, interpreting complex data sets to inform research strategy and adjust experimental approaches.
• Partner with bioinformatics, statistics, and data science teams to ensure high-quality experimental design and seamless integration of data generation.
• Provide mentorship to junior scientists, fostering a collaborative environment that upholds rigorous scientific standards and best practices.
• Produce detailed technical documentation, study reports, and protocols that capture methodologies, results, and rationales for future reference.
• Present research progress and key findings to internal stakeholders and leadership, translating technical data into actionable insights.
• Participate in risk management activities, identifying potential pitfalls and refining scientific workflows to enhance reliability and efficiency.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and methodologies to determine their applicability to current and future diagnostic challenges.
• Lead method validation efforts, ensuring that assays meet predefined performance criteria before progressing to larger studies.
• Troubleshoot complex experimental failures, utilizing deep analytical skills to identify root causes and implement effective solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define sample requirements and ensure the logistical feasibility of study operations.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property strategies by generating novel data and concepts that support patent filings.
• Maintain awareness of competitive landscape and regulatory trends to ensure research activities remain strategically relevant and compliant.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, genomics, or a related discipline, demonstrating advanced theoretical and practical expertise.
• Minimum of 8 years of industry experience, or 2+ years of postdoctoral research combined with 6+ years of industry experience in relevant fields.
• Demonstrated history of designing and advancing NGS-based diagnostics, specifically within the context of oncology applications and patient outcomes.
• Deep understanding of molecular biology, chemistry, and the intricate mechanics of NGS library preparation and sequencing technologies.
• Proven ability to execute complex experiments utilizing Design of Experiments (DOE) principles to optimize variables and maximize data quality.
• Experience managing research projects within an industrial environment, including budgeting, resource allocation, and timeline adherence.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills necessary for collaborating with diverse teams and conveying complex concepts clearly.
• Commitment to adhering to company standard operating procedures and maintaining compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).

Nice to have

• Experience with liquid biopsy or cfDNA assay development, including knowledge of challenges related to sensitivity and specificity.
• Practical knowledge of epigenomic workflows and NGS-based methylation detection methods and their clinical relevance.
• Familiarity with the transition of early-stage research into regulated product environments, including quality control considerations.
• Proficiency in R, Python, JMP, or Excel for statistical analysis and the interpretation of complex experimental datasets.
• Background in bioinformatics workflows, including sequence alignment, variant calling, and basic pipeline management.

Practical notes

• Compensation includes an annual performance bonus, long-term equity, 401(k) with company match, and comprehensive health benefits.
• Benefits include fertility care, free testing for employees and immediate family, and paid leave.
• Natera only contacts candidates via @natera.com email addresses. No interviews are conducted via text message.
• The position is located in San Carlos, Canada, requiring relocation or local commitment to this specific site.
• Engagement is Full-time, indicating a standard weekly schedule as determined by team and project needs.
• Candidates must be available for potential travel to support project requirements or collaborative meetings as outlined by management.
• This role is subject to standard employment eligibility verification as required by Canadian work authorization laws.