Director of Bioinformatics and Machine Learning

The role

This leader will head a team of bioinformatics and machine learning scientists to develop cell-free DNA assays. They will lead technology and biomarker research for cancer early detection programs.

What you will do

• Define and execute research roadmaps for cancer early detection.
• Lead, hire, and develop a team of machine learning and bioinformatics scientists.
• Own the computational design of research studies.
• Partner with molecular biology teams to design experiments.
• Serve as the computational subject matter expert for leadership and cross-functional partners.
• Advance scientific leadership through publications, conference presentations, and intellectual property.

Required qualifications

• PhD in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of post-PhD experience in industry or academic research.
• 5+ years of direct people management leading technical teams of 5 or more scientists.
• Track record of developing and deploying machine learning and statistical models on high-throughput sequencing data.
• Deep understanding of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data and large-scale genomic datasets.
• Strong communication skills with experience influencing scientific direction at a senior level.

Nice to have

• Experience in clinical diagnostics, including contributing to assays that reached analytical or clinical validation.
• Domain expertise in oncology, epigenomics, or cfDNA/liquid biopsy.
• Publication and/or patent record in computational oncology or machine learning.

Benefits

• 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
• Medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans
• Free testing for employees and immediate families
• Fertility care benefits
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave
• Commuter benefits

About the company

Natera is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health. The team consists of statisticians, geneticists, doctors, laboratory scientists, business professionals, and software engineers.