Scientist 3, CVRM Discovery Research Biology

F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 103,000 - 192,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation benefits

Discretionary annual bonus

Benefits package

Job summary

Genentech, a Roche unit in South San Francisco, seeks a Scientist 3 to advance cell‑surface receptor targets for nucleic acid delivery. You will lead discovery, validate receptors, and collaborate across teams to shape next‑gen delivery strategies for CVRM indications.

You will design assays, use CRISPR/RNAi, and conduct preclinical in vivo work to demonstrate disease‑modifying potential, with relocation benefits offered.

Qualifications

• PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Physiology, Bioengineering, or related discipline (or Master’s with 6+ years industry experience).
• Deep mechanistic expertise in cell‑surface receptor biology and intracellular trafficking.
• Hands‑on mammalian cell culture and quantitative cell‑based assay development.

Responsibilities

• Lead discovery and validation of cell‑surface receptors for targeted nucleic acid delivery.
• Develop in vitro and ex vivo systems for targeted‑delivery evaluation (including striated muscle).
• Design quantitative assays for binding, internalization, trafficking, and endosomal escape.
• Use CRISPR/RNAi and other methods to establish receptor dependency and mechanism of action.
• Plan and execute in vivo biodistribution and PK/PD studies to show therapeutic potential.
• Communicate results and milestones across cross‑functional teams.

Skills

Cell biology

Receptor biology

Mammalian cell culture

CRISPR / RNAi

Education

PhD in a related discipline

Tools

qRT‑PCR

RNAseq

Western blot

Flow cytometry

Job description

The Opportunity A healthier future. It’s what drives us to innovate. To continuously advance science and ensure everyone has access to the healthcare they need today and for generations to come. Creating a world where we all have more time with the people we love. That’s what makes us Genentech.

The Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism (CVRM) Research Biology group within Genentech Research and Early Development (gRED) is seeking an innovative and highly motivated Scientist 3 to advance our extra‑hepatic, cell‑and tissue‑selective drug delivery platforms. In this laboratory‑based role, you will lead the biological discovery and validation of novel cell‑surface receptors to enable targeted delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics (such as siRNAs and ASOs). Working in close cross‑functional partnership with therapeutic discovery, vector design, proteomics, and disease biology teams, you will directly shape next‑generation delivery strategies for CVRM indications.

Develop and execute an overarching biological strategy to identify, prioritize, and validate cell‑surface receptors capable of mediating selective nucleic acid delivery to CVRM‑relevant tissues. Establish, culture, and characterize physiologically relevant in vitro and ex vivo cellular systems (including striated muscle) for targeted‑delivery evaluation.

Design and implement quantitative mechanistic assays to assess ligand‑receptor binding, occupancy, internalization kinetics, intracellular trafficking, and endosomal escape. Evaluate novel targeting ligands and bioconjugates (such as antibody- or peptide‑oligonucleotide conjugates) for functional cargo delivery, downstream pharmacodynamics, and target gene modulation. Apply genetic and molecular perturbation tools, including CRISPR and RNAi, alongside biochemical methods to establish definitive receptor dependency and mechanism of action. Design and execute preclinical in vivo biodistribution and proof‑of‑concept pharmacology studies to demonstrate disease‑modifying therapeutic potential. Communicate experimental conclusions and strategic delivery milestones across cross‑functional matrix teams and drug discovery committees.

Who You Are

Hold a PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Physiology, Bioengineering, or a related discipline (or a Master's degree with 6+ years / Bachelor's degree with 8+ years of equivalent relevant industry research experience). Possess deep mechanistic expertise in cell‑surface receptor biology, membrane proteins, receptor‑mediated endocytosis, and intracellular vesicle trafficking pathways. Demonstrate proven hands‑on capability in mammalian cell culture (primary cells, stem‑cell‑derived lineages, or ex vivo tissues) and quantitative cell‑based assay development. Experience with specialized CVRM cellular systems including cardiomyocytes, vascular endothelium, adipose tissue, or skeletal muscle. Demonstrate technical proficiency in molecular biology techniques (CRISPR, RNAi, qRT‑PCR/digital PCR, RNAseq, Western blotting, or immunoassays) and cellular analysis tools (flow cytometry or high‑content imaging). Possess a documented record of scientific achievement through peer‑reviewed publications, patents, or recognized contributions to drug discovery pipelines, complemented by outstanding collaborative and communication skills. Preferred PhD strongly preferred. Direct experience with oligonucleotide therapeutics (siRNA, ASO) and targeted conjugate platforms (e.g., antibody‑oligonucleotide conjugates, peptide/ligand conjugates). Deep understanding of mechanisms governing endosomal escape and productive intracellular bioavailability. Hands‑on familiarity with cell‑surface proteomics(“surfaceomics”), spatial transcriptomics, or single‑cell RNA sequencing for target receptor discovery. Practical expertise with quantitative live‑cell confocal imaging, high‑content imaging platforms, and automated image analysis. Experience with preclinical in vivo biodistribution, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies, and tissue pharmacodynamic profiling.

Location

This is a laboratory‑based position at our South San Francisco, CA campus, and onsite presence (5 days per week) is required. Relocation benefits are available for this job posting. The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of South San Francisco, CA is $103,400 to $192,000. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job‑related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Benefits

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence.

The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.

Who We Are

Genentech, a member of the Roche group and founder of the biotechnology industry, is dedicated to pursuing groundbreaking science to discover and develop medicines for people with serious and life‑threatening diseases. To solve the world's most complex health challenges, we ask bigger questions that challenge our industry and the boundaries of science to transform society. Our transformational discoveries include the first targeted antibody for cancer and the first medicine for primary progressive multiple sclerosis. The next step is yours.

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws. If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.