Scientist, Research- Oncology Diagnostics

The role

You will design and run epigenomics-based research and biomarker discovery studies to expand the oncology product portfolio. You will lead projects, develop and optimize assay workflows, and partner with bioinformatics and statistics teams.

What you will do

• Lead projects and drive components of larger programs to develop and optimize assay workflows
• Plan, test, develop protocols, and troubleshoot workflows
• Tackle problems of moderate-to-complex scope and recommend alternative methods
• Contribute to study design by bringing hypotheses and proposed next steps
• Own timelines and deliverables for work
• Analyze and QC experimental data using R, JMP, or Excel
• Partner with statistics and bioinformatics teams on complex analyses
• Communicate findings to peers and leadership through written reports and presentations
• Document research progress under a Quality Management System

Required qualifications

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, genomics, biochemistry, or a closely related field, with 2+ years of relevant industry experience, or M.S. with a minimum of 5 years of industry experience in assay develop
• Strong foundation in nucleic acid techniques and molecular biology
• Hands-on experience with NGS methods, including sample prep, library prep, target enrichment (e.g., multiplex PCR, hybrid capture), and sequencing
• Demonstrated ability to independently design experiments and troubleshoot
• Sound scientific judgment
• Proficiency with analysis tools such as Excel, JMP, R, or Python
• Clear, organized writing for experimental plans, reports, and SOPs

Nice to have

• Experience with cell-free DNA or liquid biopsy
• Background in oncology or cancer biomarker research
• Familiarity with bioinformatics workflows
• Experience with lab automation or assay development in a regulated environment

Benefits

• Annual performance incentive bonus
• Long-term equity awards
• Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous paid time off
• Company holidays
• 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, software engineers and many other professionals.