Staff Pathologist at Natera

Austin, Texas, United States

Natera Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Healthcare, Biotechnology, OncologyIndustries

Requirements

  • MD/DO degree
  • ABP board-certified/eligible in AP/CP
  • ABP board-certified/eligible in Molecular Genetic Pathology (preferred)
  • Qualified for unrestricted medical licensure

Responsibilities

  • Provide clinical oversight of Natera’s laboratory testing to ensure proper performance, regulatory standards compliance, accurate and reliable patient test results, and proper maintenance of the histology lab (FFPE tissue block processing, slide staining/coverslipping/scanning)
  • Perform performance evaluation of HistoTechs (HTs and/or HTLs) and other lab personnel
  • Review patient specimens prior to testing in collaboration with other applicable stakeholders
  • Review clinical notes (e.g., chief complaint and treatment history) and pathology reports for tumor information (primary location, histologic type, sample location [primary vs metastatic]); perform tumor circling on H&E slides for molecular testing; identify alternative optimal FFPE block(s) and/or tumor specimen if current sample is inadequate
  • Review, approve, and sign-out reports for oncology testing (mainly NGS platforms, SNP array analysis, and other methodologies)
  • Oversee review of genetic and CNV variant data; interpret NGS and microarray results in context of medical literature, online variant databases, other references, and relevant patient demographic data
  • Provide clinical and technical support for genetic counselors and other laboratory personnel; set standards for laboratory testing and acceptable levels of analytic performance and ensure maintenance
  • Analyze lab data; contribute to or write publications for high-quality scientific journals
  • Serve as Clinical Consultant: ensure proper utility of assays (sample selection, test appropriateness), test reports include pertinent information for interpretation, and availability for consultation on test results interpretation related to patient conditions
  • Serve as Technical Supervisor: ensure appropriate test method selection; adequate method verification for accuracy/precision; enrollment in CMS-approved proficiency testing (PT) program; PT samples tested per CLIA requirements; PT results returned timely; PT reports reviewed; corrective actions for unacceptable PT results; quality assessment/control programs established/maintained; acceptable analytical performance maintained; remedial actions for deviations documented; patient results reported only when system functions properly; personnel trained and competent prior to testing; policies for ongoing personnel competency monitoring (preanalytic, analytic, post-analytic); remedial training/continuing education provided; approved procedure manual available
  • Manage a team: review/approve assigned work; mentor/develop personnel, including succession planning and contingency management

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

PathologyHistologyFFPE processingH&E stainingNGSSNP arrayMicroarrayCNV analysisTumor circlingVariant interpretationRegulatory complianceClinical oversightGenetic counseling support

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the primary responsibilities of the Staff Pathologist?

The role involves clinical oversight of laboratory testing, reviewing patient specimens and clinical notes, approving reports for oncology testing on NGS platforms, overseeing genetic variant data review, providing support to lab personnel, analyzing data for publications, and serving as Clinical Consultant and Technical Supervisor.

Is this a remote position or does it require on-site work?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What is the salary or compensation for this role?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What skills or experience are needed for the pathologist position?

Candidates need expertise in reviewing pathology reports and H&E slides, interpreting NGS and microarray results, overseeing histology lab operations including FFPE processing and HistoTech performance, ensuring CLIA regulatory compliance, and providing clinical/technical support.

What makes a strong candidate for this Staff Pathologist role?

A strong candidate will have deep knowledge of oncology pathology, NGS and genetic variant interpretation, experience with regulatory compliance like CLIA and proficiency testing, and the ability to oversee lab operations and contribute to scientific publications.

Natera

Genetic testing and diagnostics solutions provider

About Natera

Natera focuses on genetic testing and diagnostics, providing advanced solutions for cancer patients, transplant patients, and individuals assessing hereditary health risks. Their main technology is cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, which analyzes DNA fragments in the blood to detect minimal traces of cancer and assess organ health. Natera stands out by offering specialized tests like the Signatera ctDNA test and Panorama NIPT, along with genetic counseling services. The company's goal is to improve patient care and health outcomes through accurate genetic testing.

Austin, TexasHeadquarters
2004Year Founded
$149.9MTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Biotechnology, HealthcareIndustries
1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Flexible medical plans
Investment options
Time off
Workplace perks

Risks

Hindenburg report accuses Natera of deceptive sales practices, risking legal challenges.
New Prospera Heart features may face slow adoption by healthcare providers.
Fetal RhD NIPT demand may drop post-RhIg shortage, affecting future sales.

Differentiation

Natera's Signatera test offers personalized ctDNA analysis for cancer patients.
Prospera Heart test uses unique Donor Quantity Score for transplant rejection detection.
Panorama NIPT test is a leader in non-invasive prenatal testing with 2 million tests.

Upsides

Increased adoption of liquid biopsy techniques boosts demand for Natera's cfDNA tests.
AI integration enhances accuracy and speed of Natera's cfDNA analysis.
Growing personalized medicine trend aligns with Natera's customized genetic tests.

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