Scientist I
Sharp Decisions · South San Francisco, CA
CONTRACT
Posted Sep 8, 2026
Job Description
Scientist – Biochemical & Cellular PharmacologyPosition 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, including 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 demonstrate a proactive interest in adopting new technologies.
Preferred Technical Skills (Advantageous)
- Experience with protein biochemistry, recombinant protein expression, and molecular biology methods such as western blot, cell culture, and cell growth assays.
- Experience with nanoBRET, nanoBiT, TR-FRET, BRET, as well as imaging-based approaches.
- Familiarity with automated or semi-automated laboratory instrumentation, such as liquid handlers and 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.
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, including 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 demonstrate a proactive interest in adopting new technologies.
Preferred Technical Skills (Advantageous)
- Experience with protein biochemistry, recombinant protein expression, and molecular biology methods such as western blot, cell culture, and cell growth assays.
- Experience with nanoBRET, nanoBiT, TR-FRET, BRET, as well as imaging-based approaches.
- Familiarity with automated or semi-automated laboratory instrumentation, such as liquid handlers and 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.
Additional Details
- City
- South San Francisco
- State
- California
- Country
- US
Apply and matching require a free OVN account. Browse listings anytime without signing in.