Principal Scientist, Cell Biology

South San Francisco

Position Summary:
The Principal Scientist, Cell Biology will conduct hands-on experiments, manage bench scientists, and serve as the biology lead for cross-functional small molecule drug discovery programs. This individual will play a critical role in developing and optimizing cell-based assays, investigating disease biology, and engineering cellular models to support therapeutic development, while also contributing to biology strategy and new target identification efforts. Applying scientific insights, they will help shape discovery approaches and drive innovation.
This is an onsite role requiring regular in-lab presence to drive target validation, assay development, and MOA experiments. This person will report to the Director, Biology.

Key Responsibilities:
•    Hands-on execution of experiments in the lab; design, develop, and optimize cell-based assays, cell line engineering, target validation, and MOA studies.
•    Manage and mentor bench scientists, overseeing their training in lab techniques, troubleshooting experiments, and ensuring high-quality execution, performance, and overall scientific excellence.
•    Serve as the biology lead for cross-functional discovery programs to drive program strategy and progress; contribute to in vivo pharmacology study design and biomarker strategy.
•    Contribute to biology strategy and new target identification efforts, applying scientific insights to shape discovery approaches and drive innovation.
•    Analyze and interpret experimental data, generate reports, and present findings to senior leadership and stakeholders.
•    Stay current on industry trends and scientific literature to bring new and innovative approaches to drug discovery.
•    Foster a collaborative and inclusive lab culture that encourages continuous learning and professional development.

Qualifications:
•    Demonstrated expertise and high-quality hands-on execution in cellular assay development for Med Chem SAR optimization and MOA studies; proficient in cell biology, molecular biology, and cell line engineering techniques, including CRISPR-based genome editing and functional perturbation approaches (CRISPR-KO, CRISPRa, CRISPRi). 
•    Strong understanding of disease biology and pathways, with a proven track record in solving novel biology challenges and complex mechanisms, and generating approaches for rapid target validation.
•    Track record in managing more than two direct reports (bench scientists) and driving team performance.
•    Track record as a biology lead in small molecule discovery project teams.
•    Excellent multitasking, prioritization, problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.
•    Detail-oriented with high scientific rigor and integrity.
•    Ability to think strategically and creatively and translate science into actionable insights.

Education:
•    Ph.D. in Cell and/or Molecular Biology, or Genetics, or related Biology discipline with 8+ years of industry experience. 

* The anticipated salary range for candidates who will work in South San Francisco, CA is $175,000 to $185,000. The final salary offered to a successful candidate will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to the type and length of experience within the job, type, and length of experience within the industry, education, etc. Terremoto Biosciences, is a multi-state employer and this salary range may not reflect positions that work only in other states.

We are an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status. 

 

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