Sr Research Associate

POSITION SUMMARY: 

Natera is seeking a  Senior Research Associate 2  to coordinate workflow activities in the execution of molecular and genetic-based tests and projects within the Molecular Biology Development team. We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated candidate with hands-on laboratory experience in assay development that can work effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure that the highest quality clinical assays are developed and launched for our patients. The successful candidate will be able to organize, track, communicate and efficiently generate sample flow mechanisms and high-quality results. Performs research/development and/or logistical tasks in collaboration with others to plan, create, and execute Signatera testing.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Independently execute in-lab efforts both manually and using automated liquid handlers to develop non-invasive nucleic acid based diagnostic tests
• Assist with the design and planning of experiments and studies
• Coordinate across multiple internal groups (laboratory operations, scientific operations, CLIA). Participate in the planning of logistical workflow processes
• Perform basic data analysis (Excel, JMP etc.). 
• Contribute to the preparation of reports and other deliverables.
• Contribute troubleshoot laboratory processes

• Communicate results directly with manager as well as across cross-functional teams.

• Learn the science behind ongoing research projects while actively completing increasingly complex tasks
• This role will have occasional access to PHI both in paper and electronic form and have occasional access to various technologies to access PHI (paper and electronic) in order to perform the job.
• Employee must complete training relating to HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure Compliance training and security training as soon as possible but not later than the first 30 days of hire.
• Must maintain current status on assigned Natera trainings
• Employee must pass post-offer criminal background check.
• Be flexible to handle multiple tasks and priorities, and perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, or related field with 4+ years if relevant industry or M.S. degree in molecular biology or related field with a minimum of 2+ years of relevant industry experience in a research and/or assay development setting

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Extensive hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (DNA manipulation, PCR, qPCR, DNA quantification and analysis by LabChip and BioAnalyzer) 
• Experience with Next Generation Sequencing techniques and protocols 
• Experience with FFPE tissue handling and histopathology  
• Target enrichment, cfDNA/RNA and NGS data analysis experience 
• Experience with developing or executing assays on automated liquid handling platforms is highly desirable. 
• Very strong communication, organization, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proven success in collaborative and individual projects.
• Must have experience performing data analysis with Excel or similar software. Working knowledge of R or JMP is a plus.
• Experience with reagent QC is a plus