Senior Data Scientist

POSITION LOCATION:

This will be a hybrid role (1-2 days a week) working out of our San Carlos, CA location.

POSITION SUMMARY: 

Natera is a global leader in cell-free DNA testing, supporting oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Our goal in R&D operations data science is to support R&D activities at Natera through data analytics and development of tools to optimize workflows and processes. As a Senior Data Scientist on the team, you will drive data-driven decision-making, developing advanced data tools, and leading process improvements that enhance R&D workflows. You will work independently and cross-functionally, engaging with R&D, data engineering, and data analytics teams to design, build, and deploy innovative data solutions. Additionally, you will leverage your expertise in machine learning and optimization algorithm development to create predictive models and process optimization strategies that drive efficiency and accelerate innovation.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Collaborate closely with R&D scientists to understand complex scientific and technical aspects of research project and deliver support to ensure product development timelines are met
• Lead the end-to-end development of data science projects, from problem definition to data strategy, to iterative development with stakeholders, to launch and maintenance of data pipelines, to communication of insights.
• Champion process improvements by identifying inefficiencies in R&D workflows and designing data-driven solutions to streamline operations.
• Design and implement machine learning models and optimization algorithms to improve workflows, automate processes, and drive operational efficiencies.
• Partner with data engineers to implement process improvements derived from analytics insights and to integrate predictive analytics into production systems and ensure reliability and integrity of data sources.
• Present findings from data in a narrative that is clear and easily digestible by various stakeholders regardless of their background in data analysis (e.g. easy to understand metrics, strong presentation skills, ability to think on your feet to respond to questions)
• Establish and promote best practices for data governance, version control, and reproducibility in analytics workflows.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• 5+ years of experience in data science, machine learning, or data engineering in biotechnology, life sciences, operations research, or a related field
• Expertise in Python (including pandas, scikit-learn, TensorFlow/PyTorch)
• Expertise in SQL
• Proven ability to lead projects independently, drive process improvements, and influence decision-making through data-driven insights.
• Experience in developing, implementing, and optimizing machine learning models and optimization algorithms in real-world applications
• Strong project management skills and experience producing reproducible, well-documented code
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex data insights into actionable business recommendations

NICE TO HAVE: 

• PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, operations research or a related field
• Expertise with the Python data science ecosystem
• Strong data visualization skills
• Experience with Snowflake 
• Experience with dbt
• Proficiency in Linux environment

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Drive for learning and problem-solving
• Demonstrated teamwork skills
• Excellent communication and organizational skills