We are seeking an innovative Scientist to join Natera's Platform Technologies team within the Research & Development organization. In this impactful role, you will conduct pre-product research to develop and advance cutting-edge NGS technologies and expand Natera's growing technology portfolio by planning, designing, and executing laboratory research. Additionally, you will investigate the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and concepts to potential products and problems, based on your broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in molecular biology, demonstrated experience in developing Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Contributes substantially and intellectually to research and development
• Leads research projects to design and demonstrate the feasibility of novel nucleic acid based diagnostic methods
• Independently develops plans, generates ideas, and advances research objectives with minimal oversight
• Plans and executes complex laboratory experiments, analyzes data, and applies insights to guide and refine project direction
• Defines project plans with stakeholder input and coordinates efforts to achieve milestones within established timelines
• Coordinates the execution and analysis of effective experiments with statistics and bioinformatics teams
• Proposes, investigates, and implements innovative solutions to advance research objectives and overcome technical challenges
• Communicates progress directly with colleagues and senior management, providing regular updates on project outcomes and next steps

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or equivalent in molecular biology, genomics, or a closely related discipline
• Minimum 2 years of industry experience post-Ph.D., or at least 1 year of industry experience following the completion of postdoctoral research
• Hands-on experience with Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies and sample preparation methods, including DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, target enrichment (e.g., multiplex PCR, hybrid capture), and DNA sequencers
• Experience conceptualizing, prototyping, and advancing NGS technologies from initial concept to product development
• Strong research skills with a track record of designing and implementing innovative and scalable solutions
• Demonstrated ability to exercise independent scientific judgment in experimental design and analysis
• Proficient in data analysis and statistical testing using tools such as Excel, JMP, R, or Python
• Proven success in partnering with bioinformatics and data science teams to drive project advancement
• Demonstrated ability to write clear project plans, study protocols, and standard operating procedures

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working within a CLIA lab environment or under a Quality Management System
• Experience with epigenetics/methylation, cfDNA/RNA, or digital PCR technologies
• Experience in transplant assessment, oncology, NIPT, or liquid biopsy applications
• Bioinformatics capabilities or programming experience (e.g., Python, R, SQL)