Senior Research Associate

POSITION SUMMARY: The Product Development Sr. Research Associate will contribute to the design, execution and participation in experiments/tasks to support oncology product development and verification and validation (V&V) studies under design control, for next generation sequencing (NGS) assays. We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated candidate with direct laboratory experience in assay development who can work effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure the highest quality clinical assays are developed and launched for our patients. The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic and driven professional who is eager to learn, flexible, enjoys multi-tasking and possesses strong wet lab skills. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES : With some supervision, design and execute low to moderate complexity experimental workflows, including cfDNA extraction, library preparation for next-generation sequencing (NGS) using both manual and automated platforms, employing various molecular biology and standard laboratory methods in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions Assist with the design, plan and execution of experiments to support the development and V&V of oncology assays Maintain a detailed and organized electronic laboratory notebooks and accurate records of lab work using a variety of software including Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, and internal databases Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical and analytical tools Assist in drafting documentation including study protocols, reports, SOPs and work instructions Coordinate across multiple internal teams to ensure the timely execution of the studies. Adapt to handle multiple tasks and priorities, and perform other duties as assigned Learn the science behind ongoing research projects while actively completing increasingly complex tasks QUALIFICATIONS : Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry or related field with a minimum of 4 years of laboratory and/or relevant industry experience or MS with 0-2 years of relevant experience. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Must have hands-on experience with DNA extraction from biological samples, e.g. blood, plasma, tissue and BLS1, BLS2 experience Must have hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (purification, quantification, amplification using PCR, qPCR, Quant-IT/Qubit, BioAnalyzer or TapeStation) Hands-on experience with NGS library preparation and Illumina sequencing platforms is highly preferred Experience in a regulatory environment under IVD, CLIA/CAP is highly desired Experience in implementing, optimizing, and troubleshooting high-throughput automated assays using liquid handling techniques Knowledge of statistical methods and techniques to contribute to analytical studies is desired Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced lab under minimal supervision, managing multiple tasks and priorities with minimal errors is highly desired Effective communication skills, including gathering information from different teams, communicating with suppliers, writing protocols, and summarizing results in reports or presentations Excellent with Microsoft Office programs and Google Drive including Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms Ability to think creatively and analytically with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills Team player with strong interpersonal skills with an ability to build effective working relationships within functional areas 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 health and enable earlier and more targeted interventions that lead to longer, healthier lives. The Natera team consists of highly dedicated statisticians, geneticists, doctors, laboratory scientists, business professionals, software engineers and many other professionals…