Staff Scientist, R&D (Women's Health)

We are looking for an inquisitive and creative Staff Scientist to initiate, direct, and execute pre-product scientific research with an emphasis in Women’s Health. This Staff Scientist will investigate the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and concepts to potential inventions, products and problem solving. The ideal candidate will have broad knowledge of state-of-the-art molecular biology principles, with hands-on experience in next-generation DNA/RNA sequencing, nucleic acid technologies, multiomics, molecular diagnostics development, and/or proteomics. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: Contributes substantially and intellectually to research and development Independently leads projects to create and develop novel nucleic acid based diagnostic tests; including planning, feasibility testing, protocol development, and optimization Responsible for executing projects as per associated timelines and deliverables Thoroughly comprehends the objectives and vision of the work Develops plans, generates and advances new ideas Performs basic data analysis, including statistics Independently designs and executes moderate to high complexity experiments Coordinates the execution and analysis of effective experiments with statistics and bioinformatics teams Ability to work cross-functionally with statistics, bioinformatics, product development, and project management teams Documents research progress under a Quality Management System May manage Research Associates May work with partners and outside collaborators Communicates progress directly with colleagues and senior management QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. in molecular biology or closely related field Minimum of 8 years of industry experience or 2 years of post-doctoral research + 6 years of industry experience KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Must have experience with designing, executing, and analyzing data on next generation sequencing (NGS) and DNA/RNA molecular biology experiments Experience developing tests in NIPT and/or liquid biopsy highly desirable Experience with nucleic acid technologies relating to PCR, multiplex PCR, qPCR, and digital droplet PCR. Multiomics, epigenetic/methylation, target enrichment, cfDNA/RNA experience is a plus. Experience in women’s health molecular diagnostics is highly desirable. Track record of originating, developing and productizing novel nucleic acid techniques and tests. Strong research skills with a history of innovation. Proven success in managing collaborative and individual projects and communicating externally. Must have excellent communication, organizational, record-keeping, planning, time management, analytical and problem-solving skills. Demonstrated experience in managing and providing basic level of leadership to research associates and junior scientists. Demonstrated success in applying independent scientific judgment in experimental design and analysis. Adept with Excel and basic statistical analysis. Bioinformatic capabilities, programming (e.g. PERL, python) and databases experience (SQL) are a plus. Skilled at writing clear plans, reports and SOPs. Compensation & Total Rewards This 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 bonus Long-term equity awards Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision) 401(k) with company match Generous paid time off and company holidays Additional wellness and work-life benefits Compensation Range $157,300 — $196,600 USD OUR OPPORTUNITY Natera™ is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Our aim is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of the standard of care to protect healt