Senior Research Associate

Job Description

Job Summary:

• The Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology Group in the Oncogenesis TRC focuses on delivering Client cancer therapeutics by engaging E3 ubiquitin ligases for targeted protein degradation.
• We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Associate Scientist or Associate Scientist with broad experience and a strong understanding of small-molecule drug discovery processes.
• The successful candidate will thrive in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment and will be responsible for – Developing and implementing robust cellular assays to support the discovery of small molecules as potential clinical candidates.
• Executing in vitro studies to elucidate the mechanisms of action of Client compounds.
• The desired candidate should have broad experience in cell biology, biochemistry, in vitro cell culture techniques and a willingness to learn and adapt.
• Responsibilities include utilizing cellular models to develop and execute cell line construction, gene editing and development of new in vitro assays.
• The candidate will actively contribute to discovery project teams, collaborate with scientists across various functional areas, and play a key role in project-based decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Developing and implementing cell-based and biochemical assays to support the identification, optimization, and characterization of Client chemical matter.
• Designing and constructing cell lines and molecular tools for mechanism of action studies (MoA).
• Optimizing and assisting with DNA, RNA, and protein purification assays.
• Designing and conducting critical experiments by leveraging expertise in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and assay development to advance mechanism of action (MoA) studies.
• Analyzing and presenting data in a clear, organized and timely manner.
• Support biology needs for various projects and cross-functional drug discovery teams.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology with 3+ years or MS with 1+ year of experience.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, lentivirus preparation, cell line transfection, CRISPR KO nucleofection, siRNA and shRNA knockdowns, western blot and immunofluorescence analysis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of, and willingness to learn in vitro cell-based assays, including but not limited to cell proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis assays, as well as MSD, and Incyte-based growth assays.
• Proficient in data analysis and management, including importing and exporting data to and from databases, with experience using a variety of scientific software applications.
• Ability to use, or quickly learn, laboratory automation equipment and to develop assays in 96- or 384-well formats.
• Familiarity with the discovery and optimization of Client small molecule entities, including lead identification and an understanding of key aspects of Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) support using biological assays, is a plus.
• Experience with genome-wide screening techniques and genomics, including RNAseq, is a plus.
• Excellent communication, presentation, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to stay focused and deliver high-quality data in a timely and well-organized manner.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic team environment, with flexibility and a positive attitude toward change.