Sr. Research Scientist Biophysics

Beacon Hill; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Beacon Hill is looking for a talented biophysicist in South San Francisco, to join their Lead Discovery group. The successful candidate will be responsible for the biophysical characterization of small-molecule ligands binding to protein targets. This hands-on position involves ideating and implementing binding characterization studies, performing compound screening, and analyzing data to support drug discovery objectives. A PhD in biophysics or a related field with 3+ years of experience in drug discovery biophysics is required. Strong skills in SPR and other biophysical technologies are essential.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of industry or relevant academic experience in small molecule drug discovery.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing, developing, and interpreting biophysical characterization of small molecule-protein interactions by SPR.
• Strong theoretical and technical background in other biophysical technologies.

Responsibilities

• Independently ideate and implement binding characterization studies of small molecules and proteins.
• Perform routine compound screening and mechanistic studies using advanced biophysical assays.
• Communicate results at internal meetings and prepare industry-standard study reports.

Skills

SPR (Biacore S200 and 8K+)

Biophysical characterization

Troubleshooting skills

Data analysis

Graphing/statistics software

Education

PhD in biophysics, biochemistry, or related discipline

Tools

TSA

DLS

Spectral Shift

NMR

ITC

Job description

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated biophysicist with relevant experience in small-molecule drug discovery to join our team. The successful candidate will be a member of an established and highly collaborative Lead Discovery group that includes teams within Biophysics, Bioassays, Structure Biology, Protein Sciences, and Compound Management. The scientist will be responsible for the biophysical and mechanistic characterization of small-molecule ligands binding to protein targets. The successful candidate will be able to integrate biophysical knowledge with the goal of supporting routine compound profiling as well as understanding the molecular mechanism of action to advance the drug discovery pipeline. This is primarily a hands-on laboratory position based in our South San Francisco, CA, research site, reporting to the Principal Research Scientist, Biophysics.

Job Description

What you’ll do:

• Independently ideate and implement binding characterization studies of small molecules and proteins by SPR (Biacore S200 and 8K+).
• Perform routine compound screening and advanced mechanistic studies using an array of biophysical assays (nanoDSF, DLS, Spectral Shift, etc.).
• Coordinate and manage externalized biophysical studies to CRO partners.
• Maintain detailed experimental records, analyze and interpret data to drive SAR and advance hit-to-lead/lead optimization activities in diverse projects.
• Communicate results at internal meetings and industry-standard study reports.
• Perform all duties in keeping with the Company’s core values, policies and all applicable regulations.

Requirements

• PhD in biophysics, biochemistry, or related discipline.
• 3+ years of industry or relevant academic experience in the field of small molecule drug discovery biophysics.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing, developing, and interpreting biophysical characterization of small molecule-protein interactions by SPR.
• Strong theoretical and technical background in other biophysical technologies such as TSA, DLS, Spectral Shift, NMR, or ITC.
• Experience with graphing/statistics software is a plus.
• Strong troubleshooting, organization, and planning skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Attributes

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic small company environment.
• Critical thinker with a demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across teams and functional areas.
• Capacity to synthesize and integrate complex ideas and to clearly communicate key insights.
• Skilled at identifying and solving problems early, planning, and risk mitigation.
• Curiosity, passion, and desire to make a difference.
• Contribute to our company culture, sense of team, and collaborative spirit.