Scientist I

"All candidates must be directly contracted by ASK Consulting on their payroll and cannot be subcontracted. We are unable to provide sponsorship at this moment".





Job Title: Scientist I

Location: South San Francisco, CA

Duration: 12 months

Pay rate: $65/hr. On W2 AI

Working hours (e.g. 8 AM to 4 PM PT, 9 AM to 5 PM, etc.): Standard 8 hours





Job Description:

Position Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Scientist to join our Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology Department. This hands-on, laboratory-based role focuses on the development and execution of induced proximity-based assays crucial for the discovery and validation of novel therapeutic compounds. The successful candidate will work at the heart of a multi-disciplinary environment, translating experimental data into actionable insights for our drug discovery programs.

In this role, the candidate will have the unique opportunity to pioneer new induced-proximity approaches and help shape the scientific direction of early-stage drug-discovery programs.





Key Responsibilities:


- Assay Development: Design and develop biochemical and cell-based assays for quantitative measurement of protein–protein and protein–small molecule interactions.
- Screening & Validation: Conduct routine screening and deep-dive validation studies to support lead identification and optimization.
- Data Analysis: Perform rigorous analysis of complex data sets, ensuring high quality and reproducibility.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner effectively with colleagues in Pharmacology, Protein Science, Medicinal Chemistry and Research Biology.
- Communication: Prepare technical reports and present findings clearly during multi-disciplinary project team meetings.






Education & Experience:


- Degree: B.S. or M.S. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cellular/Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
- Experience: 1–3 years of hands-on laboratory experience within an academic, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical industry setting.






Mandatory Skills Requirements:


- Demonstrated experience designing, developing, validating, and executing cellular and biochemical assays, supported by a strong theoretical and practical understanding of biochemistry and biophysics relevant to complex protein systems.
- Direct experience with induced proximity assays and modalities (molecular glues, bivalent degraders, ternary complexes and multicomponent binding systems).
- Proficiency with data analysis methods and specialized software. Ability to move beyond default vendor fits and analyze complex system behavior using Prism, Python, R or comparable tools.
- Proven ability to critically analyze and interpret complex data sets, troubleshoot experimental hurdles, and a proactive interest in adopting new technologies.






Preferred Technical Skills (Advantageous):


- Experience with protein biochemistry, recombinant protein expression and molecular biology methods (e.g. western blot, cell culture, cell growth assays).
- Experience with nanoBRET, nanoBiT, TR-FRET, BRET as well as imaging-based approaches.
- Familiarity with automated or semi-automated laboratory instrumentation (e.g., liquid handlers, plate washers).
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and remain productive through shifting priorities or project changes.
- Proven ability to work effectively as part of a high-functioning, multi-disciplinary team.
- A proactive approach to troubleshooting and a keen interest in learning new technologies as project needs evolve.






About ASK: ASK Consulting is an award-winning technology and professional services recruiting firm servicing Fortune 500 organizations nationally. With 5 nationwide offices, two global delivery centers, and employees in 42 states-ASK Consulting connects people with amazing opportunities

ASK Consulting is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all associates.