Research Associate 1

Company: Natera
Location: San Carlos
Posted on: February 16, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description POSITION DURATION: Six-month contract role with potential to extend or convert to FTE based on performance and business needs POSITION SUMMARY: The Research Associate 1 performs laboratory procedures of varying complexity contributing to cross functional activities as part of the Oncology Team, a multidisciplinary team within the research and development department. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: Normalize plasma samples Extract nucleic acids from whole blood or plasma 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 (NextSeq, NovaSeq, iSeq, 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 software 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 QUALIFICATIONS: BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent required 1-2 years of related laboratory experience KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Extremely familiar with good pipetting practices (single and multi-channel micropipettes, serological pipettes) Hands-on experience with library preparation and next generation sequencing platforms highly preferred (NovaSeq, NextSeq, iSeq, etc.) 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 software Experience with laboratory automation is a plus 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 PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: Duties are typically performed in an office and laboratory setting daily This position requires the ability to perform repetitive motions during pipetting and sample processing This position requires the ability to use a computer keyboard, communicate over the telephone and read printed material May require lifting or moving items weighing up to 25lbs 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—$33 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. Link: https://www.natera.com/notice -of-data-collection-california-residents/ Please be advised that Natera will reach out to candidates with a @natera.com email domain ONLY. Email communications from all other domain names are not from Natera or its employees and are fraudulent. Natera does not request interviews via text messages and does not ask for personal information until a candidate has engaged with the company and has spoken to a recruiter and the hiring team. Natera takes cyber crimes seriously, and will collaborate with law enforcement authorities to prosecute any related cyber crimes. For more information: - BBB announcement on job scams - FBI Cyber Crime resource page

Keywords: Natera, Alameda , Research Associate 1, Science, Research & Development , San Carlos, California