Research Associate 1

Natera • San Carlos, CA

7h

About The Position

The Research Associate 1, performs laboratory procedures of varying complexity contributing to cross functional activities as part of the Sample Processing team. Works primarily with R&D Scientific Operations, a multidisciplinary team within the research and development department.

Requirements

• BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent required
• 1-2 years of related laboratory experience
• Extremely familiar with good pipetting practices (single and multi-channel micropipettes, serological pipettes)
• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (extraction, quantification, etc.)
• Able to operate independently in lab under general supervision with minimal human error
• Knowledge of LIMS/database softwares
• Excellent with Microsoft Office programs
• Excellent with Google Drive including Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to think creatively and analytically with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Team player with demonstrated strong interpersonal skills with an ability to build effective working relationships within functional area
• Ability to thrive in a fast paced, evolving environment, and manage competing priorities efficiently

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience with NGS platforms highly preferred (NovaSeq, iSeq, MiSeq, NextSeq etc.)
• Experience with laboratory automation is a plus

Responsibilities

• Normalize plasma samples
• Extract nucleic acids from plasma, whole blood, and buccal swabs using automated and manual extraction methods
• Determine quantity and/or quality of nucleic acids using Quant-IT, Qubit, and Nanodrop
• Load sequencing-ready libraries onto NGS platforms (NovaSeq, iSeq, MiSeq, NextSeq, etc.)
• Interpret data and determine appropriate next steps per outlined requirements
• Perform routine laboratory equipment maintenance as defined in standard operating procedures
• Recognize equipment and instrument malfunctions and escalate to R&D equipment support team and relevant team members
• Track sample inventory and status using Laboratory Information Management Software (LIMS) or Google Sheets
• Maintain accurate records of lab work using a variety of software including Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, and internal databases
• Periodically review standard operating procedures (SOPs) and other work instructions
• Suggest process improvements to subject matter experts as needed
• Ensure accurate, ethical, and appropriate management of samples in compliance with all applicable federal regulation
• Perform other tasks as specified by the manager/director

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous paid time off and company holidays
• Additional wellness and work-life 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!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level