Lead Paralegal, Healthcare Research & Development

About Natera

Natera is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to helping families and healthcare providers make more informed decisions. Through cutting-edge technology and a commitment to innovation, Natera offers genetic testing solutions that span reproductive health, oncology, and organ health. We are passionate about delivering accurate, actionable insights that improve patient outcomes and transform the way diseases are detected and managed.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Paralegal, Healthcare Research and Development is an individual contributor who performs legal review, analysis and negotiations for contracts related to Natera's Oncology research department. This individual will also provide advice on a variety of research and study-related matters to a variety of stakeholders within in a busy, high-performing legal department. This position will have a focus on supporting research activities performed under Attorney oversight. Experience in drafting and negotiating healthcare-related research and study-related agreements is a must. This is a mid-senior level transactional Paralegal position, however Natera often encourages employees to take on additional assignments and projects that interest them and they are capable of. This position requires being a nimble Paralegal who can focus on key risks and provide clear, focused, actionable advice and timely review.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Independently draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts needed for the effective functioning of the Company, focusing mainly on research collaboration agreements, investigator-initiated trial agreements, clinical study agreements, material transfer agreements and data use agreements with Attorney oversight.
• Perform legal review and approval of other company documents, such as clinical study consent forms and study protocols.
• Appropriately manage a heavy workflow, setting priorities with internal clients and meeting deliverable timelines.
• Liaise with internal clients and respond to inquiries regarding contracts and other matters, as assigned.
• Learn and contribute to the ongoing development of the Legal Department “playbook” for contract negotiations.
• Collaborate closely with attorneys to design, implement, and refine efficient workflows that streamline the contracting lifecycle, including template management, intake triage, document tracking, and coordination across business stakeholders to improve turnaround times and operational consistency.
• Employees must complete training relating to HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure Compliance training and security training as soon as possible but not later than the first 30 days of hire.
• Must maintain a current status on Natera training requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5+ years of experience as a Paralegal in commercial research contracts; experience working in industries pertaining to biotechnology, healthcare R&D, pharmaceutical, or academic healthcare-related research is strongly preferred
• Experience in advising clients in-house within biotech, life science and/or health care industries.
• Experience in reviewing, drafting, negotiating and finalizing commercial contracts, including complex arrangements independently, with Attorney oversight

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Strong analytical, communication and written skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and business acumen.
• Ability to multitask and strong attention to detail
• Nimbleness; ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• High levels of initiative, confidence and ability to appropriately influence others.
• Demonstrated high ethical behavior.
• Strong technology skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, PowerPoint and Excel.