Bioinformatics Manager (Oncology Product Development)

Natera is currently seeking a Bioinformatics Manager to join the Bioinformatics team focused on Oncology Product Development. In this role, the individual will manage a team of Bioinformaticians and Data Scientists and provide technical leadership in the design, development and validation of ctDNA-based diagnostic tests. This position requires extensive cross-functional collaboration with biostatistics, molecular biology, software engineering and commercial departments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in bioinformatics and data science, optimally with experience in the analysis or modeling of DNA methylation data, and an established record of project and technical leadership.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the effort to develop, optimize, and improve tools and analysis pipelines for diagnostic tests, including the detection of cancer-associated variants or methylation patterns and the implementation of evidence-based quality control thresholds.
• Provide technical leadership for product development projects by representing the team in cross-functional interactions and moving products through the full development process, from research through commercial launch.
• Supervise bioinformatics scientists and data scientists, managing their technical contributions, prioritizing resources, and taking responsibility for their technical and professional development.
• Provide input on experiment design, analysis and interpretation based on expert understanding of Natera’s technology and relevant mathematical principles.
• Work at a high level of independence and responsibilities in carrying out assignments.
• Contribute to our intellectual property portfolio.
• Set standards for rigorous data analysis and lead the production of high-quality documentation. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a quantitative discipline (bioinformatics, engineering, applied mathematics, statistics, or similar).
• Minimum of 4-8 years of post-graduate experience in a data science and/or bioinformatics role and 1-3 years of experience as technical lead in diagnostics or a related field
• Experience moving algorithm-based products through commercialization and launch in a medical or biological application such as diagnostic testing, medical imaging, or biotechnology

Desirable, but not required:

• Prior experience analyzing or modeling DNA methylation data.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Experience using Python or R for scientific data analysis and visualization.
• Strong foundation in statistical modeling/machine learning, including probability theory and estimation/classification methods.
• Experience with analysis of next-generation sequencing data, preferably including algorithm development or optimization.
• Proven ability to apply mathematical principles to solve real estimation problems and implement practical solutions.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills to independently make sound judgments and find creative solutions to moderately complex problems.
• Experience leading technical projects, including defining and meeting project milestones, delegating tasks to more junior team members, and ensuring the quality of technical deliverables.
• Excellent communication skills and the desire to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment.