Job Title: Biochemical Assay Development Scientist

Job Description

We are seeking a talented and motivated individual with expertise in enzymology and biochemical assay development to support small molecule drug discovery. The successful candidate should possess strong technical expertise, exceptional hands-on laboratory skills, and have excellent written and oral communication skills. You should enjoy working in a fast-paced, multi-functional team environment and stay current with the latest literature and technology developments in your field.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the assay strategies and apply a variety of scientific principles and concepts to the assay design, assay development, and troubleshooting in support of small molecule drug discovery.
• Develop and execute biochemical assays and convert them into high-throughput screening (HTS) format to enable HTS campaigns and meet project goals.
• Apply sophisticated biochemical and biophysical assay techniques to develop and perform potency, kinetic, and mechanistic assays for hit validation, compound-target engagement, and SAR study.
• Advance biochemical/biophysical assay screening capabilities and evaluate new assay technologies and experimental approaches using scientific theory and technical literature.
• Strong data analysis capabilities and able to communicate and present research results and provide scientific and technical support.
• Collaborate with internal cross-functional teams and external partners to enable project progression.

Essential Skills

• Experience in evaluating and implementing new technologies to enhance screen capabilities and assay performance for small molecules.
• A deep and broad understanding of the development, validation, and execution of a wide array of binding and functional activity-based assays such as TR-FRET and PCR.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, along with the ability to work in a flexible, team-oriented environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• PhD in pharmacology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline preferred, or exceptional working experience with an MS.
• Expertise in enzymology, ligand binding kinetics, and mechanism-of-action studies.
• Proficiency in assay development to screen and characterize covalent inhibitors.
• Experience with microplate readers such as PerkinElmer Envision and automated liquid handling systems including Multidrop, acoustic dispensers, and digital dispensers.
• Expertise in handling, analyzing, and visualizing assay data sets and proficient in software platforms such as GraphPad Prism.
• Drug discovery research experience in diverse target classes is a plus.
• Detail-oriented and analytical with excellent problem-solving skills.

Work Environment

The position is based in South San Francisco, CA, USA. You will work in a dynamic and collaborative environment where teamwork and flexibility are essential. The role requires hands-on laboratory work and the use of advanced scientific equipment and software platforms.