Research Associate 1
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. This role works primarily with R&D Scientific Operations, a multidisciplinary team within the research and development department. Natera is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Their 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 their work and each other. Joining Natera means working hard, growing quickly, and being part of a company that is changing the landscape of genetic disease management.
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
- Natera employees and their immediate families receive free testing
- Fertility care benefits
- Pregnancy and baby bonding leave
- Commuter benefits
- Generous employee referral program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
