Senior Scientist I, Cellular Neuroscience and Translational Pharmacology

Role Summary We are seeking a highly collaborative, hands-on Senior Scientist I to help establish a preclinical neuroscience laboratory supporting small-molecule and protein therapeutics. The immediate priorities are rapid cellular profiling and lead selection for an advanced small-molecule enzyme program, and leadership of cellular development for a transferrin-based protein replacement project. The role will also build fit-for-purpose human neuronal models, laboratory workflows, and external partnerships. Location We welcome applications from candidates located across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

Lead a rapid, tiered cellular assay strategy for small-molecule lead optimization, including target engagement, pharmacodynamics, concentration-response, duration, selectivity, neuronal phenotype, stress, and tolerability Lead cellular development of a transferrin-based protein replacement project by establishing quantitative assays for construct uptake, internalization, intracellular trafficking, protein abundance and integrity, mitochondrial response, and disease-relevant phenotypic rescue Use orthogonal methods to distinguish surface-bound, internalized, degraded, and functionally delivered protein; compare constructs and define advancement criteria Establish fit-for-purpose neuronal culture models, including iPSC-derived neurons or glia where they add decision value, with appropriate banking and quality control Define assay controls, acceptance criteria, reproducibility standards, analysis plans, SOPs, sample tracking, and electronic documentation Translate data into concise recommendations to advance, modify, or discontinue assets Partner across protein engineering, chemistry, bioanalysis, DMPK, pathology, computational biology, and in vivo pharmacology; scientifically manage CROs and assay transfers Mentor junior scientists and build workflows that are reproducible across operators. Future scope may include ASO screening in partnership with external experts

PhD in pharmacology, neuroscience, molecular biology, chemical biology, cell biology, or a related discipline, plus 3 to 6 years of biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry experience Demonstrated experience in cellular pharmacology, assay development, and iterative drug discovery or lead optimization Hands-on experience with neuronal cell culture models, preferably human iPSC-derived neurons or glia Expertise in concentration-response, time-course, target-engagement, pharmacodynamic, quantitative data-analysis, and troubleshooting studies Concrete examples of scientific ownership in which an assay, platform, or data package influenced a program decision Excellent communication skills and willingness to maintain a substantial hands-on laboratory presence

Enzyme biology, epigenetics, or transcriptional pharmacology; therapeutic proteins or targeted-delivery constructs; cellular uptake, trafficking, or protein quantification; mitochondrial functional assays; high-content imaging or neuronal functional assays; transferrin receptor biology, BBB transport, or biodistribution; laboratory start-up, assay transfer, or CRO management Exposure to ASO screening or RNA pharmacology is beneficial