Sr Scientist, RNA Assay Development

ZipRecruiter; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 108,000 - 164,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in cell-free DNA testing is seeking a Scientist or Senior Scientist for RNA sequencing assays development. The role involves research, assay validation, and collaboration with a dedicated team in a fast-paced environment. Competitive benefits and a commitment to diversity are offered.

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Fertility Care

401k

Commuter Benefits

Generous Employee Referral Program

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of assay development experience in the life sciences industry.
• Experience launching RNA-sequencing-based clinical assays.

Responsibilities

• Research, build, and validate high-throughput RNA-sequencing assays.
• Collaborate with assay development scientists and engineers.

Skills

Collaboration

Organizational Skills

Time Management

Data Analysis

Education

Doctorate in Molecular Biology

Master's Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Excel

Bioinformatics Software

Job description

Job Description

LOCATION:

This will be an On-Site role working out of our South San Francisco, CA office

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Platform team is seeking a Scientist or Senior Scientist for the development of clinical RNA sequencing assays. The Scientist will join a collaborative team of scientists and engineers dedicated to developing a scalable and robust platform for Natera's clinical assays. We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated molecular biologist with proven success in developing RNA sequencing assays capable of functioning effectively in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Research, build, and validate high-throughput RNA-sequencing assays.
2. Explore emerging technologies in the RNA-sequencing field.
3. Design and execute complex studies, analyze data, and communicate findings effectively to both scientific and broader audiences.
4. Collaborate with assay development scientists, automation engineers, and computational biologists to develop production-grade clinical assays, including extraction, library preparation, quality control, and analytical pipelines.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Doctorate in molecular biology, biochemistry, or related field with at least 2 years of assay development experience in the life sciences industry.
• Master's degree with at least 6 years of relevant experience.
• Bachelor's degree with at least 8 years of relevant experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Proven track record in launching RNA-sequencing-based clinical assays or reagent kits (bulk, smRNA, scRNA-seq).
• Successful experience in cross-functional collaboration.
• Familiarity with laboratory automation and scalable assay development.
• Ability to independently plan, execute, interpret studies, and make data-driven decisions.
• Experience optimizing laboratory processes, troubleshooting, and risk management.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Experience with statistical analyses in Excel or similar; coding skills are a plus.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics software (STAR, samtools, DESeq2, etc.).
• Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment.

#LI-TH1 #LI-Onsite

The listed pay range is a guideline; actual compensation depends on various factors including experience, certifications, and location. In San Carlos, CA, the range is $108,800—$163,100 USD.

OUR OPPORTUNITY

Natera is a global leader in cell-free DNA testing, focusing on oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Our goal is to integrate personalized genetic testing into standard care to enable earlier, targeted interventions for better health outcomes.

The team comprises statisticians, geneticists, doctors, scientists, and professionals from top institutions, committed to our mission. Joining Natera means working in a challenging, growth-oriented environment alongside industry leaders, contributing to transforming disease management.

WHAT WE OFFER

Competitive benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, fertility care, free testing for employees and families, baby bonding leave, 401k, commuter benefits, and more. We also have a generous employee referral program.

For more information, visit www.natera.com.

Natera is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on legally protected statuses or criminal histories.

If you are based in California, please review this important information: https://www.natera.com/notice

Note: Natera will only contact candidates with a @natera.com email address. Beware of fraudulent communications. For more info, see BBB and FBI resources on job scams.