Associate Scientist/Scientist, Biology

Initial Therapeutics, Inc.; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A seed-stage venture-backed company in South San Francisco is looking for an Associate Scientist/Scientist to join their discovery biology group. The role involves hands-on in vitro characterization of biologic conjugates and supports product development from research to early clinical stages. Candidates should have relevant educational backgrounds and experience in potency assays and mammalian cell culture.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

401K Plan

Non-accruing PTO

Early-stage Equity

Qualifications

• 3-5 years industry experience with PhD or 10-12 years with BS/MS.
• Experience with cell-based potency and bioassay methods.

Responsibilities

• Perform functional screening assays and mechanism of action studies.
• Collaborate with teams for data integration and product iteration.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Communication

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology

BS/MS in Related Field

Tools

Microsoft Office

PRISM

Softmax Pro

Job description

JLSa2 is a recently launched seed-stage venture-backed company located in South San Francisco focused on developing novel multifunctional protein-drug conjugate therapies to address human metabolic diseases and other non-oncology related diseases.

About the Company

The company is seeking an Associate Scientist/Scientist to contribute to the discovery biology group. The role involves hands-on in vitro characterization of multifunctional biologic conjugates using cell-based bioassays, supporting in vitro and in vivo characterization, and contributing to product development as molecules progress from research to early clinical stages.

Responsibilities

1. Perform functional screening assays and mechanism of action studies of research candidates using ELISA, cell-based bioassays, and kinetic-based binding assays (e.g., Octet or Gator).
2. Collaborate with conjugation and analytical teams, as well as senior leadership, to ensure data integration across functional areas for rapid decision-making and efficient product iteration.
3. This position requires on-site work at our SSF facility.

Qualifications

• PhD in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related field with 3-5 years of industry experience, or BS/MS with 10-12 years of industry experience in potency assays and mammalian cell culture.
• Experience with cell-based potency and bioassay methods, reporter assays, proliferation assays, and related assays, with strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work on multiple projects in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Experience with cell-based and biochemical assay development and screening.
• Good communication skills.
• Proficiency in designing experiments, interpreting, and presenting data is preferred.
• Experience with bioconjugates and assay automation is desirable.
• Management experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office and data analysis software like PRISM, PLA, or Softmax Pro is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary Range: $115,000 to $125,000 (compensation and level will be based on experience and expertise; it may fall outside this range).

The benefits package includes industry-competitive salary, medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, 401K plan, non-accruing PTO, and early-stage equity.