Staff Scientist, Research (Epigenomics)

Natera is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Staff Scientist to join our Molecular Biology Research Team. The Staff Scientist will conduct new product research to develop/refine methylation-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies that advance Natera’s oncology diagnostic capabilities. In this role, you will independently lead projects to design, prototype, and optimize novel NGS methods and collaborate cross-functionally to move concepts from ideation to implementation. A successful candidate must have a strong background in molecular biology and/or chemistry, substantial experience with NGS-based methylation detection, and a track record of successful research leadership in an industrial setting.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the development of innovative NGS-based diagnostic assays from feasibility through optimization.

• Define project goals and plans with input from stakeholders and manage multiple project streams in parallel.

• Independently design and execute complex laboratory experiments; analyze and interpret results to guide research direction.

• Coordinate cross-functional efforts to meet milestones and collaborate closely with bioinformatics, statistics, and data science teams to ensure robust experimental design and data analysis.

• Mentor and guide junior scientists while promoting scientific rigor and best practices.

• Author high-quality protocols, technical reports, and study documentation.

• Communicate progress regularly to stakeholders, including departmental meetings and senior leadership.

• Contribute to risk management, strategy development, and continuous improvement of scientific workflows.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, genomics, or a closely related field.

• Minimum 8 years of relevant industry experience, or 2+ years postdoctoral research with 6+ years in industry.

• Proven experience in designing and advancing NGS-based diagnostics, preferably in the field of oncology.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Extensive hands-on experience with NGS platforms, including sample prep, library prep, target enrichment (e.g., multiplex PCR, hybrid capture), and sequencing.

• Strong understanding of molecular biology techniques related to DNA/RNA manipulation and epigenomics/methylation detection.

• Proficient in statistical analysis tools such as Excel, JMP, R, or Python; familiarity with bioinformatics workflows is a plus.

• Ability to translate complex biological questions into actionable experiments and scalable solutions.

• Experience writing study plans, SOPs, and detailed reports.

• Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills.

• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and contribute strategically to a team-driven research environment.

• Up-to-date knowledge of developments in oncology and genomic technologies.