Associate Director of Bioinformatics

Summary

Join Natera, a global leader in cell-free DNA testing, as an Associate Director, Bioinformatics to lead strategic research and development in early cancer detection. You will spearhead the development of novel computational methods and machine learning models, oversee the analysis of large genomic datasets, and collaborate with cross-functional teams. This role requires expertise in bioinformatics, cancer biology, and statistical modeling, and the ability to lead scientific and technical contributors. You will mentor a team of scientists and bioinformaticians, present findings at conferences, and stay current with advances in the field. Natera offers competitive benefits, including comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability plans, free testing for employees and their families, fertility care benefits, and more.

Requirements

• PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics, Cancer Biology, or a related discipline
• Minimum 8 years of experience in bioinformatics, including experience in leadership or project ownership roles
• Demonstrated experience leading the development of impactful bioinformatics tools or products in oncology or molecular diagnostics
• Expertise in algorithm development, statistical modeling, and machine learning
• Deep understanding of cancer biology, genomics, and biomarker discovery
• Familiarity with public genomic databases (e.g., TCGA, COSMIC, OncoKB)
• Strong programming skills in Python; experience with R and/or other statistical tools is a plus
• Proficiency with Linux command-line tools, scripting, and use of cloud or HPC environments
• Experience working with relational databases and large-scale data management
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and project management skills
• Ability to synthesize and communicate complex results to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Strategic thinker who is self-motivated, detail-oriented, and execution-focused
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with evolving priorities

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and validation of novel algorithms and statistical frameworks for early cancer detection from high-throughput sequencing data
• Serve as the technical and strategic lead for projects, aligning with scientific, product, and engineering stakeholders
• Translate biological questions into robust analytical frameworks and guide the interpretation of complex genomic datasets
• Mentor and develop a team of scientists and bioinformaticians
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, clinical, product, and regulatory teams
• Present findings internally and at high-impact external conferences and scientific forums
• Stay current with advances in computational biology, machine learning, and oncology to inform innovation

Benefits

• 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!