Scientist, Product Development

Position SummaryJoin 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 ResponsibilitiesDesign development, verification, and validation studies using stakeholder input, driving milestones to completion within established timelinesIntegrate automated workflows with digital tracking systems, including Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) such as LabVantage, and execute integration testingThink team by partnering directly with biostatistics, bioinformatics, and lab operations to root-cause issues using data, communicating clearly without translation layersPlan and execute moderate to high complexity experiments, and perform primary data analysis using tools like Excel and JMPProvide unvarnished, data-backed updates at project and departmental meetings regarding progress, outcomes, and next stepsAuthor clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), study reports, and transfer documents for production implementationTrain team members on new SOPs and automated workflows, and provide troubleshooting support to lab operationsAdapt to evolving science and operational needs, taking ownership of tasks that move the work forwardQualificationsPh.D. with a minimum of 2 years of industry experience, or a Master's degree with a minimum of 5 years of industry experienceKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesDeep technical understanding of chemistry underlying nucleic acid extraction, PCR, NGS library preparation, and hybrid capture technologiesAbility to independently design experiments, interpret data, and determine the next scientific stepExtensive hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, specifically NGS, PCR/qPCR, and nucleic acid extraction and quantificationExperience building automated workflows and executing Laboratory Developed Tests (LDT) under CLIA/CAP guidelines is highly desiredAbility to manage multiple priorities while operating with pace and precisionClear, direct communication and presentation skills with strict attention to detailAn ownership mindset that identifies gaps, tests assumptions with data, and executes without waiting for a finished playbookProven ability to author clear, precise project plans, study protocols, reports, and SOPsCompensation & Total RewardsThis 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 bonusLong-term equity awardsComprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)401(k) with company matchGenerous paid time off and company holidaysAdditional wellness and work-life benefitsCompensation Range: $116,800—$140,000 USDEqual Opportunity EmployerNatera is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace environment, and welcome people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities and perspectives.All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, and will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with applicable laws.J-18808-Ljbffr