7+ years of experience in data science within biotechnology, life sciences, or operations research
Demonstrated experience in people management, including hiring and mentoring data scientists
Proven ability to own a data science roadmap and communicate progress to senior stakeholders
Working knowledge of biology or life sciences to effectively partner with R&D Operations
Experience with laboratory or operational data management systems
Track record of driving process improvements through data solutions
Strong expertise in Python and SQL, with hands-on experience in machine learning and AI
Responsibilities
Direct and mentor a team of data scientists, focusing on hiring and career development
Set the technical direction for the data science team and enhance its ML/AI capabilities
Own the data science roadmap for R&D Operations and report progress to stakeholders
Translate data analytics insights into actionable solutions and drive implementation
Manage the sample governance process, ensuring accuracy and accountability
Develop machine learning models and AI solutions for operational efficiency
Lead the creation of new data products and promote data-driven decision-making
Benefits
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
Full Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
As a Data Science Manager in R&D Operations, you will lead a team of data scientists to design and implement data solutions to accelerate R&D at Natera. You will take ownership of operational data workflows, establish scalable processes and SOPs, and apply ML and/or AI expertise to enable informed decision-making and drive efficiency. You will work closely with our Data Engineering Manager and Data Analytics Manager to deliver integrated, reliable data solutions across the team.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Direct, mentor, and develop a team of data scientists, including hiring, performance management, and career development
Set the technical direction for the data science team and advance its ML/AI capabilities
Own the data science roadmap for R&D Operations, define success metrics, and report progress and status to R&D Operations and executive stakeholders
Translate pain points and opportunities surfaced by data analytics into solutions-process changes, algorithms, or new tools-and drive their implementation to deliver measurable process improvement, championing efficiency gains in turnaround time and cost per activity across R&D Operations
Own the sample governance process end-to-end, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and accountability, and manage the associated stakeholder relationships
Develop and oversee machine learning models, optimization strategies, and AI solutions to forecast demand, optimize resource allocation, and automate operational processes
Lead the development of new data products, as well as the training and enablement around them to grow visibility, self-service, and data-driven decision-making across R&D Operations
Design, document, and implement processes for data governance, data integrity, and reproducibility across R&D Operations
Partner with the Data Engineering and Data Analytics Managers and collaborate cross-functionally across R&D and supporting functions to translate business needs into governed, reliable data solutions
Write clear, testable requirements (e.g. acceptance criteria, data contracts) and define the path from prototype to production in partnership with Data Engineering
QUALIFICATIONS:
7+ years of experience in data science in biotechnology, life sciences, or operations research
Demonstrated people-management experience, including hiring, mentoring, and developing data scientists through coaching on performance and career growth
Experience owning a data science roadmap and communicating progress to senior and executive stakeholders
Working knowledge of a relevant scientific or operational domain-biology or life sciences strongly preferred, operations research a close second-sufficient to partner effectively with R&D Operations stakeholders
Experience working with laboratory or operational data (e.g., laboratory informatics management system (LIMS), sample management, inventory, purchasing/procurement, or equipment operations)
Track record of driving process improvement-identifying root causes and delivering solutions through process changes, algorithms, or new tools
Strong background in building data processes, SOPs, and governance frameworks
Expertise in Python (including pandas, scikit-learn, TensorFlow/PyTorch) and SQL
Hands-on expertise in machine learning and/or AI applied to real-world problems, setting technical direction for predictive modeling and optimization solutions
Experience taking ML models or data products from prototype to production, including monitoring and maintenance
Experience with modern cloud data warehouse and transformation tooling (e.g. Snowflake, dbt)
Experience partnering with peer functions such as engineering and analytics to deliver end-to-end solutions, including writing requirements or technical specifications
Clear, direct communication skills to translate complex data insights into actionable business recommendations
Strong critical thinking and a drive for learning and problem-solving
Nice to Have
Advanced degree in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, or operations research
Familiarity with data integrity and audit-readiness practices in a regulated (GxP/GCLP) environment
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
$150,100-$187,600 USD
About Natera
Natera is a biotechnology company that focuses on genetic testing and diagnostics. The company's products are designed to help diagnose and treat genetic diseases, cancer, and other conditions. Natera's pipeline includes products for reproductive health, oncology, and organ transplantation. The company was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in San Carlos, California.
