Scientist R&D, Reagent Development

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Scientist for reagent development and quality control assay development. The Scientist will join a cross-functional team of assay development scientists, bioinformaticians, and engineers who are tasked with developing the scalable and robust platforms that underlie many of Natera’s clinical assays. In this role, the Scientist will contribute to new product development by characterizing reagent performance and risks, establishing quality control assays and manufacturing processes, and transferring the assays and processes to Operations. Candidates must have experience with reagent development and laboratory automation for next-generation sequencing-based clinical assays in an R&D setting.

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Plan, manage, and execute projects to meet requirements and timelines.

• Develop and optimize reagents (enzymes, buffers, oligonucleotides, etc.) for use in NGS-based clinical assays.

• Independently design and execute experiments for characterizing reagent performance, formulation, stability, and manufacturing tolerance.

• Design, develop, and validate quality control assays and associated analysis pipelines for incoming and manufactured reagents, either independently or in collaboration with other assay development scientists, automation engineers, and bioinformaticians.

• Perform data analysis, interpret results, and decide on next steps.

• Document results, author SOPs, and coordinate tech transfer to the Operations team.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or closely related field with 6+ years experience in assay development for the life science industry

• Master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or closely related field with 4+ years experience in assay development for the life science industry.

• Doctorate in molecular biology, biochemistry, or closely related field with 1+ years experience in assay development for the life science industry.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• History of success in reagent development or quality control assay development in an R&D environment.

• Extensive hands-on experience with various molecular biology techniques including but not limited to: next generation sequencing, PCR/qPCR, and nucleic acid extraction and quantification.

• Strong understanding of molecular biology and the chemistry underlying nucleic acid extraction, PCR, library preparation, and next-generation sequencing.

• Ability to independently perform moderate to high complexity experiments either manually or with liquid handler support.

• Must be able to independently design and execute experiments, interpret results, and decide on next steps.

• Must have experience working with next-generation sequencing data and performing data analysis in Excel, JMP, or similar software.

• Must have good communication and time management skills.

• Coding proficiency (Python or R) is a plus.

• Liquid handler method development experience is a plus.

 

#LI-TH1 #LI-Onsite

 

The pay range is listed and actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years & depth of experience, certifications and specific office location. This may differ in other locations due to cost of labor considerations.San Carlos, CA $108,800—$135,950 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 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 emplo