Research Associate 1/2

Natera; San Carlos (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 61,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401k

Commuter benefits

Employee referral program

Job summary

Natera is seeking an on-site Research Associate 1/2 in San Carlos for a six-month contract with potential extension or conversion. You will independently perform molecular biology experiments, process specimens, and operate NGS workflows, balancing precision with patient-care mission in a regulated environment.

Ideal candidates have BS/BA in biology, 1–4 years hands-on lab experience, and strong data tracking skills using LIMS.

Qualifications

• BS/BA in a biological sciences field or equivalent required.
• Hands-on molecular biology laboratory experience preferred (1–4 years).
• Experience with NGS library prep and DNA sequencing workflows.

Responsibilities

• Process lab specimens following standard methods with high attention to detail.
• Isolate plasma, perform tissue dissections for FFPE and Fresh samples.
• Perform DNA extraction from blood, plasma, and tissue; prepare libraries.
• Execute sequencing on iSeq, MiSeq, NovaSeq platforms; maintain records.
• Manage samples using LIMS; conduct inventory and SOP drafting with seniors.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

NGS library preparation

Pipetting / qPCR

Data tracking (LIMS)

Laboratory safety and GLP

Communication skills

Excel and data analysis

Education

BS/BA in Biological Sciences

Tools

LIMS

iSeq

MiSeq

NovaSeq6000

Job description

POSITION DURATION:

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.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Join Natera’s Oncology Research Use Only (RUO) team as a Research Associate 1/2. You will independently execute molecular biology experiments, process laboratory specimens, and operate Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows. Every sample represents a real person, and you will work in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment that balances a deep mission for patient care with strict execution.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Process laboratory specimens following standard methods with high attention to detail, maintaining strict protocols to avoid cross-contamination
• Isolate plasma from whole blood manually, and perform tissue dissections for both Fresh and Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) samples
• Perform DNA extraction and purification from various sample types, including whole blood, plasma, and tissue
• Execute library preparation and DNA sequencing using platforms such as iSeq, MiSeq i100, NovaSeq6000, and NovaSeqX
• Maintain accurate tracking of samples using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and database queries
• Maintain laboratory instruments in good operating condition, perform routine preventive maintenance, and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions using the ticketing system
• Perform consumables, reagents, and samples inventory as needed
• Draft and refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) through an iterative process guided by senior scientists
• Maintain precise, well-organized laboratory records, worksheets, and notebooks
• Adhere to environmental, health, and safety (EHS) guidelines, as well as Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Treat quality as foundational by delivering accurate, reproducible, and clean data
• Take ownership of the work, executing tasks and adapting to evolving project needs without waiting for a finished playbook
• Handle protected health information (PHI) in paper and electronic formats as required to perform duties
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum of a BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent
• 1 to 4 years of hands‑on Molecular Biology laboratory experience

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• 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 of LIMS and proficiency 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 electrophoresis and 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

ADDITIONAL JOB DESCRIPTION:

• This role requires onsite work in San Carlos and flexibility to work shifted schedules (e.g., 7am - 4pm, 11am - 8pm, 7pm - 3am) with a 30-minute break.
• Weekend shift may be scheduled on demand

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.

Remote USA

$30 — $44 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

• 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.
• We also offer a generous employee referral program!

For more information, visit www.natera.com.

If you are based in California, we encourage you to read this important information for California residents.

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.

Link: https://www.natera.com/notice-of-data-collection-california-residents/