Scientist Biochemical & Cellular Pharmacology

Pharmaceutical Company; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Pharmaceutical Company in San Diego, CA seeks a Scientist to advance biochemical and cellular assay development to support early drug discovery. The role focuses on induced proximity-based assays, protein interactions, and translating findings into actionable insights.

The candidate will design and optimize assays, validate data, and collaborate across cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, onsite lab environment.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience designing, developing, and validating biochemical and cellular assays.
• Direct experience with induced proximity mechanisms and modalities such as molecular glues and ternary complexes.
• Strong understanding of protein-protein and protein-small molecule interactions.
• Proficiency in quantitative data analysis using GraphPad Prism, Python, or R.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize biochemical and cell-based assays to quantify interactions.
• Develop and execute induced proximity-based assays to support early drug discovery.
• Conduct routine compound screening and validation studies for leads.
• Analyze data, troubleshoot experiments, and ensure reproducibility.
• Collaborate with Pharmacology, Protein Science, Medicinal Chemistry, and Research Biology.
• Prepare technical reports and present results in project meetings.
• Evaluate new technologies to improve assay performance.

Skills

Biochemical assays

Cell-based assays

Induced proximity

Molecular glues

Ternary complexes

Protein interactions

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cellular Biology or Molecular Biology

Tools

GraphPad Prism

Python

R

Job description

Scientist - Biochemical & Cellular Pharmacology

Location: San Diego, CA | Work Model: Fully Onsite | Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8 hours per day

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Scientist to join the Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology team. This is a hands-on, laboratory-based position focused on developing and executing induced proximity-based assays to support the discovery and validation of novel therapeutic compounds.

The successful candidate will contribute to early-stage drug discovery programs by designing innovative biochemical and cell-based assays, evaluating protein-protein and protein-small molecule interactions, and translating experimental findings into actionable scientific insights.

This role offers an opportunity to explore emerging induced proximity technologies and contribute to the development of novel therapeutic approaches.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize biochemical and cell-based assays to quantitatively measure protein-protein and protein-small molecule interactions.
• Develop and execute induced proximity-based assays to support early-stage drug discovery research.
• Conduct routine compound screening and in-depth validation studies to support lead identification and optimization.
• Perform experimental data analysis, interpretation, and troubleshooting to ensure accuracy, quality, and reproducibility.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Pharmacology, Protein Science, Medicinal Chemistry, and Research Biology.
• Prepare technical reports, document experimental findings, and present scientific results during multidisciplinary project meetings.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies and experimental approaches to improve assay performance and research capabilities.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cellular Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• 1-3 years of hands-on laboratory experience in an academic, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical research environment.
• Strong theoretical and practical understanding of biochemistry, biophysics, and complex protein interaction systems.

Mandatory Skills & Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience designing, developing, validating, and executing biochemical and cellular assays.
• Direct experience with induced proximity mechanisms and modalities, including:
• Molecular glues
• Ternary complexes
• Strong understanding of protein-protein and protein-small molecule interactions.
• Proficiency in quantitative data analysis using specialized software such as GraphPad Prism, Python, R, or comparable tools.
• Ability to critically analyze complex datasets, troubleshoot experimental challenges, and interpret experimental results beyond standard vendor-generated data fits.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively to multidisciplinary research teams.

Preferred Technical Skills

• Experience in protein biochemistry, recombinant protein expression, and molecular biology techniques.
• Hands-on experience with Western blotting, mammalian cell culture, and cell growth or viability assays.
• Familiarity with proximity-based assay technologies, including:
• NanoBRET
• NanoBiT
• TR-FRET
• BRET
• Experience with imaging-based assay approaches.
• Familiarity with automated or semi-automated laboratory instrumentation, including liquid handling systems and plate washers.
• Ability to adapt to changing project priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced research environment.
• Strong troubleshooting, communication, and scientific problem-solving skills.
• Work Model: Fully onsite, five days per week.
• Working Days: Monday through Friday.
• Work Environment: Hands-on laboratory and collaborative research setting.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in biochemical and cellular assay development, with direct experience in induced proximity technologies and protein interaction studies. Candidates with experience in molecular glues, PROTACs, bivalent degraders, ternary complex formation, and quantitative assay development will be particularly relevant.