Scientist I/II, Early Discovery Biology

Jnana Therapeutics; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Jnana Therapeutics is seeking a molecular and cell biology specialist to enhance its early discovery portfolio. This role involves designing cell-based assays, evaluating targets, and collaborating with a multi-disciplinary team to drive innovative drug discovery efforts. Ideal candidates will have a strong scientific background and a passion for problem-solving in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of developing novel cell-based assays.
• Experience with cellular readouts of protein activity.
• Collaborative self-starter with a passion for learning.

Responsibilities

• Lead efforts to design and develop cell-based assays.
• Perform structure-activity relationship (SAR) assays.
• Collaborate with Discovery Technology colleagues.

Skills

Cell-based assays

Gene delivery technologies

Problem-solving

Education

PhD in Biology, Cell Biology, or relevant discipline

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

Tools

Flow cytometry

Liquid handling instruments

Job description

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 is seeking a molecular and cell biology specialist to help expand our early discovery portfolio. In this role, 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 is 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 structure-activity relationship (SAR) assays to inform medicinal chemistry.
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 Jnana’s pipeline and strategy.
8. Present data regularly to colleagues and leadership.

Preferred Qualifications & Past Experience

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