Research Associate 1, IVD Product Development

As a Research Associate 1 at Natera, your key responsibilities include designing and executing laboratory experiments for next generation sequencing (NGS) assays. You’ll assist with library preparation, ensure the quality of nucleic acids, and coordinate across multiple internal groups to support product development and validation. Additionally, maintaining detailed laboratory records and adhering to standard operating procedures will be crucial in your role.

To qualify for the Research Associate 1 position at Natera, candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, or a related field, along with 4+ years of relevant industry experience. Experience in a molecular biology lab, especially with nucleic acid techniques and NGS library preparation, is highly desired, as well as strong communication skills and proficiency with lab software.

Natera is committed to the growth of its employees, offering competitive benefits that include comprehensive health plans, free testing for employees and immediate family members, and ongoing professional development opportunities. The workplace promotes a collaborative environment, where team members are encouraged to share ideas and improve workflows. With a focus on inclusivity, everyone is welcomed and valued.

Candidates for the Research Associate 1 role at Natera should demonstrate hands-on experience with pipetting, nucleic acid techniques, and NGS library preparation on platforms such as NovaSeq and NextSeq. Familiarity with tools like Quant-IT, Qubit, and data analysis software (like JMP) is advantageous and will help you excel in executing laboratory experiments.

At Natera, the workplace culture is vibrant, collaborative, and focused on impactful health solutions. You will be part of a diverse team of professionals from various fields, all dedicated to innovation in genetic testing. The company values openness and offers a supportive environment where every idea is taken into consideration to further the mission of improving health outcomes.

When answering this question, detail any hands-on experience with NGS library preparation techniques you possess, including specific platforms you've worked on. Highlight any relevant project where you contributed to NGS assays, and explain how your role impacted the outcomes or efficiency of the project.

Provide a brief overview of the methods you've utilized, such as PCR or qPCR, and discuss how you ensured accuracy and quality during these processes. Sharing specific examples from your previous work will demonstrate your expertise and help the interviewers gauge your capabilities.

Explain your strategy for managing multiple projects effectively. You might incorporate time management techniques, the use of checklists, and how you communicate with team members to keep everyone in sync. This showcases your ability to handle the demands of the role.

Discuss a specific technical skill that aligns with the responsibilities of the Research Associate 1 position, such as laboratory techniques or data analysis skills. Provide examples of how you have applied these skills in a prior role and the positive outcomes that resulted.

Detail your approach to adhering to SOPs, which may include regular reviews of the documentation, attending training sessions, and communicating with team members about updates. Mentioning your attention to detail and ability to follow protocols showcases your commitment to quality.

Discuss specific software tools or statistical methods you use for analyzing data, such as JMP or Excel. Highlight how you interpret results and how this analysis informs future experiments or decisions in the lab, showcasing your analytical acumen.

Your answer should reflect a rational approach to troubleshooting. Discuss the importance of reviewing methodologies, discussing with colleagues, and experimenting with new techniques to improve results. This indicates resilience and a problem-solving mindset.

Tailor your response to demonstrate your understanding of Natera's mission and how it resonates with your own professional goals. Mentioning projects or values of the company will show your genuine interest in contributing to its success.

Share an example of a project or situation where you coordinated with peers or cross-functional teams. Highlight the outcomes of this collaboration, as this will emphasize your ability to function well within a team environment.

Discuss your strategies for professional development, such as attending conferences, reading scientific journals, or participating in online courses. This shows your commitment to continuous learning and staying current in your field.