Principal Scientist - Mechanistic Pharmacology

About the role:

Superluminal Medicines, Inc. is seeking a highly motivated, independent, and collaborative Principal Scientist to help advance our pipeline and move lead molecules toward clinical development. Reporting to the Head of Biology, the successful candidate will work closely with the broader research team to provide deep mechanistic insights into our lead molecules-going beyond routine potency profiling. In this role, you will leverage a wide range of assay technologies, integrating classical and modern pharmacology approaches to identify and validate target engagement of novel hits. You will also perform complex pharmacological assays to characterize the mechanistic properties of lead compounds.

Superluminal is a target- and biology-first drug discovery company that harnesses artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) to overcome common drug development bottlenecks. We emphasize the seamless integration of biology, chemistry, and computation. This is a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to real-world challenges, shape the future of drug discovery, and help address unmet medical needs for patients around the world.

At Superluminal, we foster a collaborative, innovative environment where scientists at all levels are empowered to learn, grow, and make a tangible impact on bringing new therapies to the clinic.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and optimize a wide range of assays (biochemical, biophysical, and cell-based binding/functional assays) focused on GPCR targets, including orthosteric, allosteric, and bitopic ligands.
• Investigate molecular mechanisms at both steady-state and kinetic levels to deepen understanding of compound behavior.
• Build and maintain automated workflows using lab automation tools such as Echo, Multiflo, D300, Bravo, and BenchCel.
• Take initiative in designing and executing experiments, delivering high-quality data to support multiple drug discovery programs.
• Collaborate effectively within cross-functional project teams, promoting open communication and transparency.
• Contribute to a culture of innovation and excellence by sharing ideas, troubleshooting challenges, and applying best practices.
• Potentially supervise lab activities, mentor junior scientists (formally or informally), and serve as a role model for scientific excellence.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field with 8+ years of relevant experience in GPCR pharmacology or enzymology; OR
• BS/MS with 12+ years of hands-on experience in these areas.
• Proven expertise in GPCR pharmacology, enzymology, and small-molecule drug discovery is required.
• Experience with Creoptix or similar biophysical platforms is a plus.
• Demonstrated proficiency in developing and executing high-quality biochemical, cellular, and/or binding assays.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary team.
• High energy, a strong work ethic, and a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset.
• Quick learner with the ability to master new technologies and apply them strategically to solve complex research challenges.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Superluminal Medicines is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; creed; religion; national origin; age; ancestry; nationality; marital, domestic partnership or civil union status; sex, gender, gender identity or expression; affectional or sexual orientation; disability; veteran or military status or liability for military status.