Sr. Scientist, Cell Biology

Seeking Senior Scientist with expertise in cell cycle regulation and signaling pathways to support small molecule drug discovery efforts and efficiently progress into the clinic. Responsible for designing and executing cell-based and in vivo Pharmacodynamic assays with a focus on quick win/fail early strategies and early proof of concept. The successful candidate will identify and validate cancer targets, have strong assay development skills to map out the mechanism of action (MOA), and generate high-quality data to support in-house pipelines.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Independently devise, execute, and analyze in vitro cell-based assays to validate targets and early hits, support Structure Activity Relationship (SAR), explore mechanisms of action and drug resistance, and drug combinations to advance oncology programs.
• Develop and advance innovative in vitro or ex-vivo drug testing methods and analytical strategies to support Hit-to-lead and lead optimization programs to the IND filing.
• Effectively communicate hypotheses and work plans, timely troubleshooting, establish assay protocols, deliver high-quality data, and be familiar with the database to meet project timelines and goals.
• Establish and maintain collaborations with cross-functional teams to align on scientific rationales and data generation to support project advancement.
• Makes effective and persuasive presentations on sensitive or complex topics to senior management, external customers, collaborators, and public groups.
• Maintain accurate and well-organized laboratory records and notebooks, prepare technical reports, and present data in project team and company meetings.
• Stay current on the latest scientific advancements and trends in molecular biology and oncology research.

Qualifications/Skills:

• A proven strong track record of publications and extensive experience in tumor biology and small molecular drug discovery.
• A strong expertise in cell cycle regulation and signaling pathways and a thorough understanding of genetics and ribosome biology.
• Proficiency in emerging cell biology technologies towards novel experimental design, and strategy into action while employing strong consensus-building skills.
• Demonstrated ability to design, execute, and mentor junior scientists in the creation of automated assays to support weekly SAR screening.
• A thorough understanding of the small molecular drug discovery process, including target identification & validation, assay and drug screen scheme development.
• Sufficient experience in drug discovery and MOA mapping to serve as a biology core function at a project team and to communicate high-level scientific/assay strategies and deliverables to senior management is required.
• Excellent problem-solving ability, drive for results, and a strong sense of urgency are critical, as well as the ability to communicate complex issues concisely and orchestrate plans to resolve issues and mitigate risks is required.
• Foster a science-driven, goal-oriented culture that values innovation, teamwork, agility, transparency, and accountability for the data.

Education / Experience

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Tumor Biology, or a related fields with a minimum of 5 year years of relevant industry experience.