Research Associate 2

Research Associate 2

Join Natera's R&D Scientific Operations as a Research Associate 2 on the Sample Processing team. You will execute Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows, cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extraction, and library preparation, generating the high-quality data required to advance our clinical diagnostic assays. Every sample represents a real person, and you will ensure accuracy, ethics, and compliance in sample management to directly impact patient care.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Isolate plasma and buffy coat from whole blood and normalize plasma samples
• Extract nucleic acids from whole blood or plasma using automated and manual extraction methods
• Perform library preparation for Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) using automated and manual methods
• Determine the quantity and quality of nucleic acids using Quant-IT, Qubit, Nanodrop, BioAnalyzer, and qPCR
• Load libraries onto NGS platforms, including NextSeq, MiSeq i100, NovaSeq, NovaSeq X Plus, and Revio
• Interpret data to determine appropriate next steps based on rigorous outlined requirements
• Perform routine laboratory equipment maintenance as defined in Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Troubleshoot minor equipment malfunctions using data, escalating to the R&D equipment support team when necessary
• Track sample inventory and status using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and Google Sheets
• Maintain precise records of lab work in LIMS, Google Sheets, Excel, and internal databases
• Periodically review or draft SOPs and other work instructions
• Take ownership of process improvements to increase operational precision and scale
• Think team by partnering directly with R&D staff to define process needs and execute lab work without needing translation layers
• Ensure accurate, ethical, and appropriate management of samples in compliance with all applicable federal regulations
• Adapt to evolving science and operational needs, executing tasks that move the work forward
• Handle protected health information (PHI) in paper and electronic formats as required to perform duties
• Complete required HIPAA/PHI privacy and security training within the first 30 days of hire and maintain current status on all training

Qualifications:

• BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent
• Minimum of 2 years of related laboratory experience
• Must pass a post-offer criminal background check

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Extensive familiarity with good pipetting practices using single and multi-channel micropipettes and serological pipettes
• Direct hands-on experience with library preparation and NGS platforms
• Experience with laboratory automation systems (e.g., Tecan, Hamilton, Beckman-Coulter) is strongly preferred
• Able to operate independently in the lab with strict attention to detail and precision
• Proficiency with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and database software
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and Google Drive
• Clear, direct oral and written communication skills
• Ability to think analytically, testing assumptions with data to troubleshoot and solve problems
• Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills to build effective working relationships within the functional area
• Manage competing priorities while operating with pace and precision in an evolving scientific environment

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Duties are typically performed in an office and laboratory setting daily
• Requires the ability to perform repetitive motions during pipetting and sample processing
• Requires the ability to use a computer keyboard, communicate over the telephone, and read printed material
• May require lifting or moving items weighing up to 25lbs

Compensation & Total Rewards This range reflects a good-faith estimate of the base pay we reasonably expect to offer at the time of hire. Final compensation will vary based on experience, qualifications, and skills considerations. This position is also eligible for additional compensation and benefits through Natera's robust Total Rewards program, including: Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision) 401(k) with company match Generous paid time off and company holidays Additional wellness and work-life benefits

Compensation Range $74,800 - $93,500 USD

Our Opportunity Natera™ is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women's health, and organ health. Our aim is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of the standard of care to protect health and enable earlier and more targeted interventions that lead to longer, healthier lives.

The Natera team consists of highly dedicated statisticians, geneticists, doctors, laboratory scientists, business professionals, software engineers and many other professionals from world-class institutions, who care deeply for our work and each other. When you join Natera, you'll work hard and grow quickly. Working alongside the elite of the industry, you'll be stretched and challenged, and take pride in being part of a company that is changing the landscape of genetic disease management.

What We Offer Competitive Benefits - Employee benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents. Additionally, Natera employees and their immediate families receive free testing in addition to fertility care benefits. Other benefits include pregnancy and baby bonding leave, 401k benefits, commuter benefits and much more. We also offer a generous employee referral program!

Natera is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace environment, and welcome people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities and perspectives. Inclusive collaboration benefits our employees, our community and our patients, and is critical to our mission of changing the management of disease worldwide.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, and will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with applicable laws.

If you are based in California, we encourage you to read this important information for California residents.

Please be advised that Natera will reach out to candidates with a @ natera.com email domain ONLY. Email communications from all other domain names are not from Natera or its employees and are fraudulent. Natera does not request interviews via text messages and does not ask for personal information until a candidate has engaged with the company and has spoken to a recruiter and the hiring team. Natera takes cyber crimes seriously, and will collaborate with law enforcement authorities to prosecute any related cyber crimes.

For more information: - BBB announcement on job scams - FBI Cyber Crime resource page