Analysis Skills, Bioinformatics, DNA, DNA Sequencing, Data Analysis, Data Science, Laboratory Analysis, Leading Edge Technology, Molecular Biology, Multiplexing, Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), Nucleic Acid, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Product Development, Project Design, Project Planning, Prototyping, Python Programming/Scripting Language, R Programming Language, Research & Development (R&D), Research Laboratory, Research Protocols, Research Skills, Scientific Principles, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Statistics, Test Tools, Writing Skills
We are seeking an innovative Scientist to join Natera's Platform Technologies team within the Research & Development organization.
In this impactful role, you will conduct pre-product research to develop and advance cutting-edge NGS technologies and expand Natera's growing technology portfolio by planning, designing, and executing laboratory research. Additionally, you will investigate the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and concepts to potential products and problems, based on your broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories.
The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in molecular biology and demonstrated experience in developing Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Contributes substantially and intellectually to research and development
- Leads research projects to design and demonstrate the feasibility of novel nucleic acid based diagnostic methods
- Defines project plans with stakeholder input and coordinates efforts to achieve milestones within established timelines
- Plans and executes complex laboratory experiments, analyzes data, and applies insights to guide and refine project direction
- Coordinates the execution and analysis of effective experiments with statistics and bioinformatics teams
- Proposes, investigates, and implements innovative solutions to advance research objectives and overcome technical challenges
- Provides regular updates at project team and departmental meetings on project progress, outcomes, and next steps to ensure alignment and transparency
Qualifications:
- Ph.D. or equivalent in molecular biology, genomics, or a closely related discipline
- Minimum 2 years of industry experience post-Ph.D., or at least 1 year of industry experience following the completion of postdoctoral research
- Hands-on experience with Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies and sample preparation methods, including DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, target enrichment (e.g. multiplex PCR, hybrid capture), and DNA sequencers
- Experience conceptualizing, prototyping, and advancing NGS technologies from initial concept to product development
- Strong research skills with a track record of designing and implementing innovative and scalable solutions
- Proficient in data analysis and statistical testing using tools such as Excel, JMP, R, or Python
- Proven success in partnering with bioinformatics and data science teams to drive project advancement
- Demonstrated ability to write clear project plans, study protocols, and standard operating procedures