Staff Machine Learning and Bioinformatics Scientist (Multi-Cancer Early Detection)

Natera’s Research team is building tests that can detect many cancers from a single blood draw. We are looking for a Staff Machine Learning and Bioinformatics Scientist to help design the models at the heart of that effort. You’ll work with large-scale, multi-modal genomic datasets from clinical cohorts and partner closely with molecular biologists and clinical scientists. Your research will advance the state-of-the-art and you will drive new methods from prototype, through scalable implementation, toward clinical validation and, ultimately, to patients.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the development of novel statistical and machine learning methods for cancer signal detection on multi-modal genomic data
• Build interpretable, well-calibrated models, setting the standard for uncertainty estimation and reproducibility across the group
• Prototype, test and productionize ML models using scalable infrastructure
• Own key technical deliverables within larger projects and help shape the team’s research roadmap
• Collaborate closely with molecular biologists and clinical experts on design and analysis of experiments and validation studies
• Keep raising the bar through code and design reviews across projects
• Translate complex results into clear stories for technical and non-technical audiences
• Mentor junior scientists and champion a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and scientific excellence

QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Bioinformatics, or a related quantitative field with 6-12 years of experience post-PhD
• Hands-on experience developing novel statistical / ML analysis methods applied to complex biological data
• Proven track record of innovation and technical leadership in complex method development projects
• Expertise in deep learning and multimodal foundation models
• Proficient in Python and its scientific computing ecosystem
• Scientific rigor throughout the R&D process, with eagerness to teach and learn new computational methods and biology
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach across teams

Preferred Experience:

• Familiarity with DNA methylation and other epigenomic data
• Experience with cell-free DNA and liquid biopsy samples
• Background in cancer genomics and diagnostics
• Hands-on work with multimodal foundation models applied to biological data

Compensation & Total Rewards

This range reflects a good-faith estimate of the base pay we reasonably expect to offer at the time of hire. Final compensation will vary based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity considerations.

This position is also eligible for additional compensation and benefits through Natera’s robust Total Rewards program, including:

Annual performance incentive bonus

Long-term equity awards

Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)

401(k) with company match

Generous paid time off and company holidays

Additional wellness and work-life benefits

Compensation Range

$169,800—$212,300 USD