Principal Scientist, Translational Oncology – Single Cell and Spatial Genomics, Solid Tumors

Principal Scientist, Translational Oncology – Single Cell and Spatial Genomics, Solid Tumors

San Francisco, CA;
South San Francisco

We are seeking a Principal Scientist to serve as a translational and strategic leader within our

Oncology research organization. This role sits at the crossroads of reverse translation, biomarker

science, and cutting-edge genomics technology — driving mechanistic insight from the clinic

back into discovery to accelerate and de-risk our oncology pipeline. The ideal candidate brings

deep expertise in cancer biology, a track record of cross-functional leadership in a pharma or

biotech environment, and hands-on experience building and deploying single cell and spatial

omics capabilities.

Discovery & Translational Research Leadership

Drive discovery and translational projects in collaboration with AI and internal research

teams with a primary focus on integrating scRNA-seq and spatial biology into Natera's

pipeline.

Collaborate with external translational teams on building single-cell and spatial biology

workflows into their early phase clinical studies.

Leverage novel technologies to inform collaborative reverse and forward translation

efforts as well as internal target discovery and validation projects.

Design and execute lab-based research programs that bridge clinical observations with

mechanistic hypotheses, supporting asset progression and CDP expansion

Technology & Capabilities

Lead and contribute to technology area team focused on single cell genomics and spatial

omics, building out multiomics capabilities to support foundational models and RWD

efforts

Partner with internal and external collaborators to establish, optimize, and deploy cutting-

edge platforms for translational applications

Serve as an internal expert and thought leader on emerging genomics technologies

relevant to oncology drug discovery and development

Represent translational science on life cycle, RWD, and Bio Pharma BD teams

Collaborate with Clinical, Biomarker, Discovery, and Regulatory colleagues to shape

clinical trial design and biomarker plans

Build and maintain external scientific partnerships and advisory relationships as

appropriate

Lead and mentor a team of scientists and contractors, with a strong commitment to career

development and scientific growth

Foster a collaborative, high-performance team culture with clear goals and accountability

Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Molecular/Cellular Biology, Immunology, Bioengineering, or a

closely related field

6+ years of experience post-Ph.D. in oncology translational research within biotech or

pharma, including demonstrated growth into senior or principal scientist roles

Deep scientific expertise in at least one of the following: cancer cell biology, tumor

immunology, cell engineering, or neoantigen biology

Hands-on experience with single cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, or multiomics

platforms; experience building or scaling these capabilities in an organizational context is

strongly preferred

Strong publication and/or patent record reflecting independent scientific contribution

Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional programs and influencing without

authority across Research, Clinical, and Biomarker teams

Prior experience managing and mentoring scientists at multiple career stages

Exceptional scientific communication skills; ability to synthesize complex data and

present compellingly to diverse audiences

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

$171,900 - $214,950 USD

OUR OPPORTUNITY

Natera™ is a…