Sr Scientist, Biology

Biopharma Careers; Foster City (CA); On-site; USD 169,000 - 219,000; Full time

Job summary

Gilead Sciences Inc. in Foster City, CA, seeks a Senior Scientist to join the Discovery Sciences & Technologies (DST) group and advance drug discovery programs across Virology, Inflammation, and Oncology.

DST designs and executes rigorous, quantitative biochemical, biophysical, and cellular assays to support target validation, lead identification, lead optimization, candidate selection, and exploratory biomarker development.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience with a BS in a relevant field.
• 6+ years with MS.
• 2+ years with PhD.

Responsibilities

• Develop fit-for-purpose screening and profiling cascades for lead identification and optimization.
• Design, execute, and troubleshoot biochemical, biophysical, and cell-based assays.
• Conduct mechanistic studies to characterize pharmacology and target engagement.
• Analyze complex datasets, draw conclusions, and recommend actions.
• Serve as the DST expert on cross-functional project teams and guide strategy.
• Communicate results clearly to teams, stakeholders, and senior leadership.
• Identify and implement new technologies to strengthen DST capabilities.

Skills

fit-for-purpose assays

pharmacology expertise

data analysis

Education

PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related

MS in a relevant field

BS in a related field

Job description

At Gilead, we’re creating a healthier world for all people. For more than 35 years, we’ve tackled diseases such as HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19 and cancer – working relentlessly to develop therapies that help improve lives and to ensure access to these therapies across the globe. We continue to fight against the world’s biggest health challenges, and our mission requires collaboration, determination and a relentless drive to make a difference.

Every member of Gilead’s team plays a critical role in the discovery and development of life-changing scientific innovations. Our employees are our greatest asset as we work to achieve our bold ambitions, and we’re looking for the next wave of passionate and ambitious people ready to make a direct impact.

We believe every employee deserves a great leader. People Leaders are the cornerstone to the employee experience at Gilead and Kite. As a people leader now or in the future, you are the key driver in evolving our culture and creating an environment where every employee feels included, developed and empowered to fulfil their aspirations. Join Gilead and help create possible, together.

Job Description

We are seeking a talented and motivated Senior Scientist to join the Discovery Sciences & Technologies (DST) group and advance drug discovery programs across Virology, Inflammation, and Oncology. DST designs and executes rigorous, quantitative, and physiologically relevant biochemical, biophysical, and cellular assays to support target validation, lead identification, lead optimization, candidate selection, and exploratory biomarker development.

The successful candidate will represent DST on multidisciplinary project teams as a subject-matter expert in the in vitro pharmacology of small and large molecules. This individual will independently develop and apply mechanistic assay strategies, generate decision-enabling data, and influence project direction across multiple modalities and therapeutic areas.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop fit-for-purpose screening and profiling cascades that enable lead identification, lead optimization, and candidate selection.
• Design, execute, and troubleshoot biochemical, biophysical, and cell-based assays that address critical project questions.
• Conduct mechanistic studies to characterize pharmacology, mechanism of action, selectivity, and target engagement.
• Independently analyze complex datasets, draw scientifically rigorous conclusions, and recommend actionable next steps.
• Serve as the DST functional‑area expert on cross‑functional project teams and influence program strategy through high‑quality scientific guidance.
• Communicate results, interpretations, risks, and recommendations clearly to project teams, stakeholders, and senior leadership.
• Identify and implement emerging technologies and scientific approaches that strengthen DST capabilities and improve project execution.

Basic qualifications

• 8+ Years with BS
• 6+ Years with MS
• 2+ Years with PhD

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a related field, with at least three years of drug discovery experience in a biopharmaceutical industry environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in developing and deploying robust biochemical and cellular assays for target validation, lead generation, and structure–activity relationship‑driven optimization.
• Strong knowledge of quantitative pharmacology, experimental design, data interpretation, assay troubleshooting, and rigorous laboratory documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, deliver high‑quality results in a fast‑paced research environment, and operate effectively with a high degree of independence.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across disciplines, influence project decisions, and present effectively to senior leadership.
• Experience supporting lead identification or optimization programs for small molecules, large molecules, or both.
• Experience with integrated laboratory automation, high‑throughput screening instrumentation, and data‑intensive assay workflows.
• Experience defining project assay strategy, applying orthogonal methods, or characterizing mechanism of action and target engagement.
• Create Inclusion - knowing the business value of diverse teams, modeling inclusion, and embedding the value of diversity in the way they manage their teams.
• Develop Talent - understand the skills, experience, aspirations and potential of their employees and coach themoncurrent performance and future potential. They ensure employees are receivingthe feedbackand insight needed to grow, develop and realize their purpose.
• Empower Teams - connect the team to the organization by aligning goals, purpose, and organizational objectives, and holding them to account. They provide the support needed to remove barriers and connect their team to the broader ecosystem.

The salary range for this position is: $169,320.00 - $219,120.00. Gilead considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary. This position may also be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, discretionary stock‑based long‑term incentives (eligibility may vary based on role), paid time off, and a benefits package. Benefits include company‑sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans*.

For additional benefits information, visit: https://www.gilead.com/careers/compensation-benefits-and-wellbeing

* Eligible employees may participate in benefit plans, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.

Gilead Sciences Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment comprised of diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. Employment decisions regarding recruitment and selection will be made without discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex , age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability,genetic information or characteristic, gender identity and expression, veteran status, or other non‑job related characteristics or other prohibited grounds specified in applicable federal, state and local laws. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact [e-mail] for assistance.

For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please view the 'Know Your Rights' poster.

Gilead provides a work environment free of harassment and prohibited conduct. We promote and support individual differences and diversity of thoughts and opinion.