Research Associate

Natera; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 62,000 - 77,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision benefits

Life and disability insurance

Fertility care benefits

401k plan

Job summary

Natera is seeking an IVD Product Development Research Associate 1 in Austin, TX. The role supports study forecasting, data analysis, and SOP-driven experiments, with emphasis on DNA isolation, PCR/qPCR, and NGS library prep.

You will track samples, maintain instruments, and stay current with regulatory science and lab methods. Ideal candidates have a BS/BA in biology and at least 1 year of molecular biology lab experience, plus strong Excel skills and trouble-shooting abilities.

Qualifications

• BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent.
• Minimum 1 year of Molecular Biology laboratory experience.
• Hands-on molecular biology techniques incl. pipetting, PCR/qPCR, nucleic acid extraction.

Responsibilities

• Independently execute simple experiments.
• Assist with SOP development.
• Receive and process laboratory specimens with superb attention to detail.
• Track samples with database queries and advanced Excel techniques.
• Maintain equipment and instruments in good operating condition; troubleshoot as needed.
• Maintain and forecast lab inventory of reagents and consumables.
• Perform DNA isolation and extraction; process samples for PCR library prep and NGS.
• Complete routine maintenance and understand methods used in the lab.
• Complete HIPAA/PHI privacy and security training within 30 days.

Skills

Pipetting

PCR/qPCR

Nucleic acid extraction

DNA isolation

Microsoft Excel

Database querying

Troubleshooting

Scientific communication

Data analysis

SOP development

Education

BS/BA in biological sciences

Tools

NGS sequencing platforms

PCR/qPCR instruments

Job description

Position Summary

The IVD Product Development Research Associate 1 will assist with various development tasks such as study forecasting and planning, general lab maintenance, and execute experiments following guidelines outlined by an SOP. In collaboration with others you will be expected to make detailed observations, analyze data, and interpret results. You will develop new streamlined methods that will help to maintain all workflows in the lab and with project advancement, as well as maintain a high level of professional expertise through familiarity with scientific literature related to IVD products and regulation.

Primary Responsibilities

• Independently execute simple experiments.
• Assist with SOP development.
• Receive and process laboratory specimens following the standard methods and procedures with superb attention to detail.
• Track samples with use of database queries, and advanced excel techniques; verify that correct specimens are being processed and analyzed.
• Maintain equipment and instruments in good operating condition, recognize any malfunctions and troubleshoot as needed.
• Maintain and track lab inventory of reagents and consumables and proactively forecast general laboratory needs routinely
• Complete routine preventive maintenance and troubleshooting on instruments and equipment.
• Responsible for maintaining updated understanding and knowledge of the methods employed in the laboratory.
• Perform DNA isolation and extraction from various sample types
• Process samples through PCR library preparation and Next-Generation Sequencing techniques
• Adapt to handle multiple tasks and priorities, and perform other duties as assigned.
• Employee 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.

Qualifications

• BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent.
• Minimum of 1 year of Molecular Biology laboratory experience.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• DNA isolation from biological samples (preferred).
• Must have proven, hands‑on experience utilizing molecular biology techniques, including pipetting, PCR/qPCR, and nucleic acid extraction
• Experience with PCR library preparation for Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and running sequencing platforms
• Practical knowledge sample databases and in sample tracking
• Demonstrated experience handling delicate biological materials and following rigorous research protocols
• Excellent oral and written communication skills to actively share precise data and help the broader team troubleshoot
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required; advanced Excel skills (e.g., nested formulas, macros, pivot tables) and database querying capabilities are highly desired
• Experience with sample analysis and QC, including DNA quantification techniques
• Ability to investigate and create new methods or technologies to advance project timelines
• Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to recognize subtle malfunctions and resolve issues

The pay range is listed and actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years & depth of experience, certifications and specific office location. This may differ in other locations due to cost of labor considerations.

Austin, TX

$61,800—$77,300 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!

For more information, visit www.natera.com.

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.