Senior Manager, R&D

POSITION SUMMARY:

Natera is seeking an experienced Senior Manager, R&D, to join the Oncology Product Development team. This role will lead development and optimization of NGS-based oncology diagnostic assays and support product lifecycle management post-launch. The ideal candidate will drive cross-functional initiatives, provide strong technical leadership, and partner with Operations to ensure robust and scalable product performance.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and execute technical development of NGS-based oncology assays, including project planning, execution, and cross-functional coordination
• Contribute to assay development from feasibility through verification and validation in a regulated (CLIA) environment
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Research, Informatics, Stats, Software, Regulatory, Quality, and Commercial teams to support product development and launch
• Support post-launch activities, including process improvements, troubleshooting, and collaboration with Operations for commercialized assays
• Prepare and review technical documentation, including study protocols, reports, and validation documentation, to support product development and regulatory compliance
• Manage and mentor team members
• Perform and guide data analysis using statistical tools

QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD in Molecular Biology or a related field with 6+ years of industry experience, or BS/MS with 8+ years of relevant biotech industry experience, including at least 2 years of management experience
• Experience in NGS-based assay development in a regulated environment (CLIA experience preferred)
• Familiarity with CLIA laboratory workflows and assay implementation in a production setting
• Demonstrated experience leading projects and collaborating cross-functionally; prior people management experience preferred
• Experience with high-throughput workflows or automation is a plus

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Technical expertise in oncology diagnostics and NGS technologies
• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Technical writing and documentation skills in a regulated environment
• Understanding of regulatory requirements and design control processes in a regulated environment (e.g., LDT, CAP/CLIA, product development lifecycle, change management)
• Strong cross-functional collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to build effective working relationships
• Team leadership and development