Senior Scientist I - In Vivo Pharmacology

Job Overview

The Senior Scientist I will spearhead in vivo pharmacology research to support various biotherapeutics initiatives, primarily related to cancer biology and immuno-oncology. The role requires a proactive and engaged PhD-level scientist with expertise in animal models and a clear grasp of pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and efficacy correlations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, execution, and analysis of in vivo pharmacology studies (PK/PD/Efficacy) using rodent tumor models.
• Conduct hands-on animal work and manage studies conducted by external Contract Research Organizations (CROs) when necessary.
• Serve as the Pharmacology representative in biotherapeutics project teams, providing scientific support and insights.
• Leverage scientific literature and internal data to formulate and test drug target hypotheses.
• Document pharmacology study outcomes to support research and Investigational New Drug (IND) submissions.
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare regulations by collaborating with the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC).

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in pharmacology, cancer biology, molecular cellular biology or related fields plus 7 years relevant experience, OR
• Master’s degree in related fields with a minimum of 5 years relevant experience, OR
• PhD in related fields with relevant expertise regardless of experience years, or equivalent education/experience combination.
• Extensive knowledge of in vivo pharmacology principles focused on oncology drug discovery and immune-oncology mechanisms.
• Proven experience establishing and validating various tumor models (xenograft, syngeneic, genetically engineered, orthotopic, PDX, humanized) for biological mechanism studies.
• Demonstrated success authoring regulatory documents, including sections for IND filings.
• Strong skills in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation underpinned by scientific rationale.
• Proficiency in aseptic cell culture techniques and fundamental in vivo procedures such as dosing, blood collection, and tumor measurements.
• Experience coordinating with CROs to ensure timely and accurate study execution.

Technical and Soft Skills

• Expertise in rodent handling, multiple dosing routes (oral, IV, SC, IP, IM), blood and tissue collection, necropsy, and surgical procedures.
• Thorough biological understanding of oncology and immune-oncology biologics with specialized in vivo experimental protocols.
• Familiarity with IACUC and AAALAC guidelines ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Ability to adapt in dynamic environments and mentor junior scientists.
• Excellent communication capabilities, both written and verbal, alongside solid presentation skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Self-driven with strong teamwork ethic and independence where required.
• Advanced proficiency using MS Office, PDF tools, GraphPad, Benchling notebook, and Studylog software.

Work Environment and Conditions

The role requires occasional weekend or holiday work to support in vivo experiments. The office provides a modern, collaborative, and ergonomically equipped workspace with tools such as dual monitors and ergonomic chairs to foster creativity and idea sharing.

Compensation and Benefits

The annual base salary range is $127,500 to $180,500, adjusted for geographic location and candidate qualifications. Additional benefits include a comprehensive package featuring a 401(k) plan with company contributions, group medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, an annual discretionary bonus, stock purchase opportunities, long-term incentives, 15 vacation days in the first year, 17 paid holidays including a winter shutdown, and up to 10 sick days annually.

Equal Opportunity and Accessibility

The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to non-discrimination based on race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or other protected categories. Reasonable accommodations are provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.