Scientist

HiComp; San Diego, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

HiComp in San Diego seeks an independent Scientist to drive Organ-on-Chip studies end-to-end, from literature review to study planning, execution, data interpretation, and reporting, with CRO client involvement.

You will design protocols, troubleshoot experiments, develop new models, and present findings to internal teams and pharma clients, contributing to both internal R&D and external client programs.

Qualifications

• PhD in Life Sciences, Bioengineering, or related field, or a Master's with at least 5 years of working experience.
• Demonstrated ability to run projects independently from study design through data interpretation and reporting.
• Industry or postdoctoral research experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct literature searches to stay current and identify publications relevant to projects.
• Design experimental protocols and write proposals with objectives, milestones and deliverables.
• Execute studies using Organ-on-Chip models, 2D/3D cell culture, in vitro assays, and molecular biology.
• Troubleshoot experiments and interpret data in a scientific context.
• Design and execute client-sponsored studies, communicate progress to clients, and author reports.
• Develop, validate, and apply new Organ-on-Chip models with device engineering team.
• Maintain thorough lab notebooks and present findings to internal teams and clients.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Organ-on-Chip development

2D & 3D cell culture

Molecular biology protocols

DNA/RNA extraction

PCR

Western blot

ELISA

Flow cytometry

Immunohistochemistry

Statistical data analysis

Independent project management

AI-assisted research tools

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Life Sciences or Bioengineering

Master's with ≥5 years experience

Tools

Organs-on-Chips platforms

Laboratory equipment (PCR, flow cytometer)

Job description

We are seeking an independent, scientifically driven Scientist to join our biology team. In this role you will drive studies end to end, from literature review and proposal writing, through experimental design and execution, to data interpretation and planning of the next study. You will contribute to both our internal R&D on Organ-on-Chip model development and our CRO service programs for external clients. This role offers unusual scientific ownership: you will shape study designs, build new models, and see your work reach biopharma clients directly.

Requirements

Research & Study Design:

Conduct comprehensive literature searches to stay current on field progress and identify publications relevant to our projects.

Design experimental protocols that meet project goals.

Write project proposals and study plans that define scientific objectives, approach, milestones, and deliverables; plan follow-on studies based on results.

Carry out specialized laboratory research and execute complex studies involving microfluidic Organ-on-Chip models, 2D & 3D cell culture, in vitro assays, and molecular biology experiments.

Actively troubleshoot experimental challenges.

Data Analysis & Interpretation:

Perform statistical analysis and interpret experimental data in scientific context.

Draw conclusions and use them to plan the next study.

CRO Services & Internal R&D:

Design and execute client-sponsored studies, communicate progress and results to clients, and author clear study reports.

Drive the development, validation, and application of new Organ-on-Chip models, in partnership with the device engineering team.

Documentation & Communication:

Maintain rigorous project documentation and detailed laboratory notebooks.

Present findings to internal teams, clients, and at scientific meetings.

Education and Experience:

PhD in Life Sciences, Bioengineering, or a related field, or a Master's degree with at least 5 years of working experience.

Demonstrated ability to run projects independently from study design through data interpretation and reporting.

Industry or postdoctoral research experience is preferred.

Technical Skills:

Direct, hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture.

Proven ability to develop and conduct cell culture models, cell-based assays, and in vitro assays, including model/assay optimization and validation.

Skilled in essential molecular biology protocols, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, Western blot, ELISA, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry.

Strong statistical analysis and scientific data interpretation skills.

Capable of leveraging AI tools to enhance research efficiency and productivity.

Attributes:

Independent and accountable: able to set priorities, drive projects forward, and deliver on timelines with minimal supervision.

Fast learner with the ability to quickly grasp new technologies and background knowledge.

Flexible with working hours to accommodate specific project requirements and evolving business needs.

Thrives in a fast-paced environment and can manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

Specialized experience with iPSCs, 3D cultures, organoids, bioengineering, and microfluidic devices.

Experience with client-facing study work.