Full-Time

Senior Research Associate 1

Posted on 11/27/2024

Natera

Natera

1,001-5,000 employees

Genetic testing and diagnostics solutions

Biotechnology
Healthcare

Compensation Overview

$68.1k - $85.1kAnnually

Mid, Senior

San Carlos, CA, USA

Category
Lab & Research
Life Sciences
Medical Research
Requirements
  • B.S. degree in molecular biology, related field, or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 3 - 4 years of industry experience in an assay development department.
  • Extensive hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (DNA extraction and manipulation, PCR, qPCR, DNA quantitation and analysis by LabChip, BioAnalyzer or Tape Station).
  • Experience with DNA extraction from various sample types (fresh and fixed tissue, blood, plasma, etc.).
  • Experience with Methylation analysis by either Bisulfite Sequencing or Enzymatic Conversion.
  • Experience with target enrichment techniques including hybrid capture.
  • Experience with Next Generation Sequencing techniques and protocols including library preparation.
  • Experience in basic statistical analysis; working knowledge of JMP is a plus; database experience and programming is a plus.
  • Experience optimizing new methodologies and novel nucleic acid techniques and tests.
Responsibilities
  • Design, plan, and perform experiments geared towards the development of non-invasive cancer detection and cancer monitoring tests.
  • Autonomously and accurately plan and execute complex laboratory experiments.
  • Analyze data using advanced analytical tools.
  • Keep detailed laboratory notes in electronic format; write protocols and experimental plans, and document results and scientific interpretations.
  • Contribute insight toward experimental findings and troubleshoot laboratory processes and protocols.
  • Communicate and discuss results with a multidisciplinary team including biologists, bioinformaticians, statisticians, software engineers, and managers.
  • Summarize work in research reports and laboratory meeting presentations.
  • Learn and understand the science behind ongoing research projects while simultaneously completing increasingly complex tasks.

Natera specializes in genetic testing and diagnostics, focusing on advanced testing solutions for various medical needs. Their main technology is cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, which analyzes small DNA fragments in the blood to detect molecular residual disease (MRD) in cancer patients, aiding in treatment decisions. They also offer the Signatera test, a custom ctDNA test for cancer patients, accessible remotely. In addition to oncology, Natera provides testing for organ health in transplant patients and offers tests for women's health, including family planning and prenatal screening. Their Panorama NIPT has conducted over 2 million tests. Natera's business model involves selling testing kits and services to healthcare providers and patients, often reimbursed by insurance, and they provide genetic counseling services for personalized patient support.

Company Stage

IPO

Total Funding

$149.9M

Headquarters

Austin, Texas

Founded

2004

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

12%

1 year growth

25%

2 year growth

66%
Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Natera's continuous innovation, such as the launch of the Prospera Heart test with DQS, demonstrates its commitment to improving patient outcomes and maintaining market leadership.
  • The company's diverse product offerings across oncology, transplant health, and women's health provide multiple revenue streams and reduce dependency on a single market.
  • Significant investments from entities like Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA indicate strong financial backing and confidence in Natera's growth potential.

What critics are saying

  • Allegations of deceptive sales and billing practices could damage Natera's reputation and lead to legal and financial repercussions.
  • The highly competitive nature of the genetic testing market requires constant innovation and differentiation to maintain market share.

What makes Natera unique

  • Natera's focus on cell-free DNA (cfDNA) technology for a wide range of applications, from oncology to prenatal screening, sets it apart from competitors who may specialize in only one area.
  • The introduction of unique features like the Donor Quantity Score (DQS) for transplant rejection detection enhances the accuracy and reliability of their tests, distinguishing them from other genetic testing companies.
  • Natera's extensive portfolio of over 200 peer-reviewed publications underscores its commitment to scientific validation and credibility, which is a significant competitive advantage.

Help us improve and share your feedback! Did you find this helpful?

Benefits

Flexible medical plans

Investment options

Time off

Workplace perks

INACTIVE