Scientist I/II, Early Discovery Biology

Jnana Therapeutics; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking biotechnology company dedicated to advancing therapies for challenging diseases. As a molecular and cell biology specialist, you'll play a crucial role in validating small molecule binders and developing innovative cell-based assays. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a diverse and collaborative environment, where your contributions will directly impact drug discovery efforts. If you're a scientifically curious individual eager to embrace challenges and drive innovation, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• PhD or relevant degree with industry experience in cell biology.
• Experience in developing cell-based assays and engineering cell lines.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop cell-based assays for small molecule binders.
• Collaborate with colleagues in protein biochemistry and structural biology.

Skills

Cell-based assay development

Cell line engineering

Protein activity readouts

Collaboration and teamwork

Problem-solving

Education

PhD in Biology or Cell Biology

B.S./M.S. with 6+ years of experience

Tools

CRISPR

Tecan liquid handling

Flow cytometry

Job description

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About Us

Jnana Therapeutics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Otsuka Pharmaceutical, is a clinical-stage biotechnology company leveraging its next-generation RAPID chemoproteomics platform to discover medicines for highly validated, challenging-to-drug targets to treat diseases with high unmet needs. Jnana is focused on developing first- and best-in-class therapies to treat a wide range of diseases, including rare diseases and immune-mediated diseases. Jnana's lead program, JNT-517, targets an allosteric site on the phenylalanine transporter SLC6A19, and is a potential first-in-class oral treatment for PKU, a rare genetic metabolic disease. Located in Boston, Jnana brings together scientific leaders in small molecule drug discovery and development, supported by a highly experienced management team. For more information, visit www.jnanatx.com and follow us on Twitter/X and LinkedIn.

At Jnana, you'll join a diverse, passionate team dedicated to advancing therapies for challenging diseases. Our collaborative, purpose-driven culture fosters innovation, urgency, and belonging—making Jnana a great place to work!

About The Opportunity

Jnana Therapeutics seeks a molecular and cell biology specialist to expand our early discovery portfolio. You will join the multi-disciplinary Discovery Technologies team to validate small molecule binders and establish on-target cellular activity. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of developing novel cell-based assays and engineering cell lines.

This role offers an exciting opportunity for a scientifically curious and driven scientist who embraces challenges and opportunities with enthusiasm, contributing beyond core responsibilities to help bring innovative medicines to patients.

Responsibilities

1. Lead efforts to design and develop cell-based assays to functionally characterize small molecule binders from our RAPID platform.
2. Perform SAR assays to inform medicinal chemistry efforts.
3. Become a subject matter expert on target biology and disease area.
4. Generate and characterize cell lines for RAPID platform screening.
5. Evaluate potential new targets for technical feasibility and disease relevance.
6. Collaborate with Discovery Technology colleagues in protein biochemistry and structural biology.
7. Leverage drug discovery experience to impact pipeline and strategy.
8. Present data regularly to colleagues and leadership.

Preferred Qualifications & Past Experience

• PhD in Biology, Cell Biology, or relevant discipline with 0-2 years of industry experience, or B.S./M.S. with 6+ years of experience and a strong scientific record.
• Experience in cellular readouts of protein activity (e.g., reporters, NanoBit/BRET, qPCR, HTRF, flow cytometry).
• Proficiency in vector selection, construct design/engineering, and gene delivery technologies (transfection, transduction, electroporation, CRISPR knock-in).
• Hands-on experience in cell line engineering and assay development challenges.
• Experience with protein biochemistry, biophysics, or structure is a plus.
• Experience with liquid handling equipment (Tecan, Viaflo, Biotek) is a plus.
• Must be a collaborative self-starter with a passion for learning and problem-solving.

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Industries

• Biotechnology