Senior Scientist, R&D San Carlos, CA

We are looking for a Senior Scientist to join our highly collaborative Molecular Biology Research team. This role plans, designs, and executes laboratory research to advance Natera’s growing liquid biopsy-based product portfolio. Ideal candidates have a demonstrated track record of creatively applying multiomic approaches to oncology applications, with experience developing NGS assays.

• Contribute intellectually and creatively to research and development planning and innovation.
• Lead oncology projects to create and develop novel nucleic acid‑based diagnostic tests, including planning, feasibility testing, protocol development, optimization, and transfer to Development.
• Manage project‑associated timeline and deliverable planning and management.
• Independently develop plans, generate and advance new ideas.
• Independently design and execute high‑complexity experiments.
• Coordinate the execution and analysis of effective experiments with statistics and bioinformatics teams.
• Perform basic data analysis (e.g., R, JMP, Excel).
• May manage research associates.
• Communicate progress directly with manager and colleagues.
• Document research progress under a Quality Management System.
• Actively interact and communicate with interdepartmental teams such as Sci Ops, Program Management, Bioinformatics, Data Science, Engineering, Translational Science, and Product.
• Complete required HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure training within the first 30 days of hire.
• Maintain current status on Natera training requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ph.D. with a minimum of 5–8 years of industry experience or 2+ years post‑doctoral research and 3+ years of industry experience.
• Extensive experience designing, executing, analyzing data and problem solving of next‑generation sequencing (NGS) and DNA molecular biology experiments.
• Cancer research experience desired.
• Experience with epigenetic/methylation analysis, target capture/enrichment, WGS, and cfDNA a plus.
• Track record of originating, developing and productizing novel nucleic acid and multi‑omic techniques and tests.
• Strong research skills with a history of innovation and scientific accomplishment.
• Experience with automation a plus.
• Excellent communication, organizational, record‑keeping, planning, time management and analytical skills.
• Experience managing and providing basic leadership to research associates and junior scientists.
• Demonstrated success in applying independent scientific judgment in experimental design and analysis.
• Bioinformatic capabilities, programming (e.g., Python) and database experience (SQL) are a plus.
• Skilled at writing clear plans, reports and SOPs.

• Base pay range: $138,100 – $176,600 USD.
• Annual performance incentive bonus.
• Long‑term equity awards.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Additional wellness and work‑life benefits.

Natera™ is a global leader in cell‑free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Our mission is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of the standard of care to protect health and enable earlier and more targeted interventions that lead to longer, healthier lives.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
• Free testing and fertility care benefits for employees and their families.
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave.
• Company match 401(k) benefits.
• Commuter benefits.
• Generous employee referral program.

Natera is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace environment, and welcome applicants of all backgrounds. All qualified applicants 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.

If you are based in California, please review the important information for California residents.