Research Associate 1/Research Associate 2

Natera • San Carlos, CA

1d • $30 - $44 • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Associate 1/2 performs laboratory procedures of varying complexity contributing to cross functional activities as part of the RUO Oncology Team, a multidisciplinary team within the research and development department. This is a six-month contract role located in San Carlos with the potential to extend or convert to full-time based on performance and business needs.

Requirements

• BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent required.
• 1-3 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 (purification, quantification, amplification, 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 library preparation and next generation sequencing platforms highly preferred (NovaSeq, MiSeq, iSeq etc.).
• Experience with laboratory automation is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Normalize plasma samples.
• Extract nucleic acids from whole blood, plasma, tissue blocks using automated and manual extraction methods.
• Perform library preparation for nextgen sequencing using automated and manual methods.
• Determine quantity and/or quality of nucleic acids using Quant-IT, Qubit, Nanodrop, BioAnalyzer, and qPCR.
• Load libraries onto next generation sequencing platforms (NovaSeq, iSeq, Miseq, 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 or Google Sheets.
• Maintain accurate records of lab work using a variety of softwares including Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, and internal databases.
• Periodically review standard operating procedures (SOP) 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.
• This role occasionally works with PHI both in paper and electronic form and has access to various technologies to access PHI (paper and electronic) in order to perform the job.
• Employees 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 a current status on Natera training requirements.
• Employee must pass post offer criminal background check.
• This role requires onsite work in San Carlos and flexibility to work shifted schedules (e.g., 7am - 4pm, 11am - 8pm, 7pm - 3am).

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
• Free testing for employees and their immediate families.
• Fertility care benefits.
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave.
• 401k benefits.
• Commuter benefits.
• Generous employee referral program.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level