POSITION SUMMARY:
Natera is a global leader in cell-free DNA testing.
We measure fetal, tumor, or donor cfDNA at the molecular level to help inform personalized health care decisions with a non-invasive test.
We are looking for a highly motivated Scientist with a strong focus on process optimization and improvements to join the Molecular Biology product development team, joining a group of scientists who are tasked with developing and advancing Natera’s oncology product portfolio.
The Scientist will be working with internal cross functional teams and investigating the feasibility of applying a variety of scientific principles and concepts to oncology diagnostics and monitoring space.
The ideal candidate is a driven professional who maintains broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories with an in-depth understanding of applicability to oncology research.
We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated scientist with experience in both NGS assay development and high throughput automation that can work effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure that the highest quality clinical assays are developed and launched for our patients.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Design, develop, and validate automated high-throughput NGS assays that will be run in a commercial CLIA laboratoryManage assigned technical projects and associated timelines and deliverables in NGS-based assays.
Mentor junior employeesDesign and execute moderate to high complexity experiments and perform basic data analysis (e.g. JMP, Python, R, Excel)Collaborate with assay development scientists on the specifications of assay, reagent, equipment and quality metrics for existing and future production assaysWork with Clinical Laboratory and Quality Assurance to ensure that developed methods meet Natera’s rigorous quality standardsCoordinate with multiple internal groups (automation engineering, laboratory operations, bioinformatics, statistics, project and product management) and serve as point person to ensure the successful identification and timely execution of projectsWrite documentation and SOPs and train lab operations operators on protocols.
Overlook validation activitiesParticipate in post-launch surveillance by troubleshooting production issues, performing root cause analysis on automation, reagent, peripheral equipment and assay failuresIdentify areas for continuous improvement and actively contribute to the effort of introducing better practices to improve production workflows and shorten TAT for patient samples QUALIFICATIONS:
BA/BS with 5+ years experience, MS with 3+ years or PhD with 1+ years experience in assay development and automation for the life science industryDemonstrated track record of development and validation of automated protocols for CLIA labs KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Strong understanding of the chemistry underlying nucleic acid extraction, PCR, NGS library preparation, and hybrid capture technologiesHands-on experience in reagent preparation and quality control for NGS-based assaysExperience implementing, optimizing, and troubleshooting high-throughput automated assays utilizing liquid handler robotsStrong individual contributor as well as dedicated team playerExperience designing and executing studies including stability, guard banding, reproducibility and repeatability, and validationExperience working in a regulated laboratory environment under CLIA/CAP, NYSDOH, IVD is a plusData analysis (JMP) required, coding skills (Python or R), and liquid handler programming experience are a plusExcellent communication, organizational, record-keeping, planning, attention to detail and time management skillsAbility to collaborate cross-functionally with other groups (CLIA, LIMS, lab operations QA, Automation, Research) 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 from world-class institutions, who care deeply for our work and each other.
When you join Natera, you’ll work hard and grow quickly.
Working alongside the elite of the industry, you’ll be stretched and challenged, and take pride in being part of a company that is changing the landscape of genetic disease management.
WHAT WE OFFER
Competitive Benefits - Employee benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
Additionally, Natera employees and their immediate families receive free testing in addition to fertility care benefits.
Other benefits include pregnancy and baby bonding leave, 401k benefits, commuter benefits and much more.
We also offer a generous employee referral program!