Research Associate / Scientist – In Vitro Pharmacology

Roles and Responsibilities

• Design, execute, troubleshoot, and optimize a range of routine and mechanistic in vitro assays to support drug discovery and target validation efforts.
• Utilize liquid handling automation (e.g., ECHO) for compound management, including preparation of assay-ready plates and compound evaluation.
• Support core lab operations, including routine maintenance and calibration of automation systems and liquid handling platforms.
• Maintain accurate and well-organized experimental records in electronic or paper lab notebooks.
• Perform data analysis and quality control (QC); prepare and upload data for centralized storage and reporting.
• Effectively communicate experimental results—both written and oral—to interdisciplinary project teams including chemists, biologists, and AI/ML scientists.

Qualifications and Experience

• BS/MS in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field, with 2–5 years of hands-on laboratory experience in in vitro assay development or drug discovery (biotech or start-up experience preferred).
• Strong technical skills in biochemical, cellular, or biophysical assay development, with proven ability to troubleshoot and optimize experiments.
• Proficiency in mammalian cell culture techniques.
• Experience with assay technologies such as:
• HTRF, AlphaLISA, NanoBiT, NanoBRET, western blotting, flow cytometry
• GCI, SPR, DSF, or related biophysical/biochemical platforms.
• Hands-on experience with automated liquid handling instruments, including:
• ECHO 650, Agilent Bravo, MultiFlo FX, Apricot S3, Tecan D300e, etc.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills, with familiarity in software such as:
• GraphPad Prism, Microsoft Excel, and relevant data analysis tools.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive, with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; enthusiastic collaborator on cross-functional scientific teams.
• Knowledge of GPCR biology or experience in small molecule drug discovery is a plus.

Key Attributes for Success

• Independent and self-motivated with a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, dynamic research environment with shifting priorities.
• Creative thinker with a passion for advancing novel therapeutic strategies and contributing to high-impact science.