Title: Scientist I/II, Biology

Location: Rockville, Maryland, USA

Introduction

Our client is a clinical-stage biotechnology company with a therapeutics pipeline that spans from early discovery through clinical-stage programs, leveraging multiple modalities.

The Position

The Scientist I/II will play a critical role in advancing discovery programs across multiple therapeutic areas. The successful candidate will lead and support target validation, assay development, and translational biology efforts to progress programs from early hit identification through candidate selection. A key focus of this role will be in vivo study design and execution—including dosing, pharmacodynamic endpoints, and tissue collection—while coordinating work internally and with CROs to analyze efficacy data. This is a hands-on position requiring independence in experimental design and execution, rigor in data analysis, and strong cross-functional collaboration to accelerate decision-making and advance the pipeline.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research to support the company’s drug discovery efforts.
• Develop, optimize, and execute quantitative assays (e.g., qPCR, ELISA, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry) with appropriate controls and statistical rigor.
• Contribute to in vivo study design and execution (dosing, PD endpoints, tissue collection); coordinate internally and with CROs; and analyze efficacy data.
• Maintain thorough documentation (ELN, SOPs, protocols) and communicate results clearly to internal and external stakeholders.
• Contribute novel ideas, methods, and strategies to enhance pipeline development.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners.

Core Qualifications & Experience

• PhD in Cell/Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, or related field with 2–3 years of postdoctoral or industry experience;
• Master’s degree with 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Hands-on expertise in one or more of the following: in vivo mouse models of disease, cell-based assay development, ELISA, qPCR, cell signaling/biochemistry, multi-color flow cytometry, genome editing, protein/chromatin biochemistry.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically, work independently, and approach science creatively.
• Strong teamwork skills and adaptability in complex research environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in a biotech startup environment, including management of external collaborations and CROs.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $90,000 – $105,000
• Target Bonus: 10% annual bonus
• Long-term incentives, including Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• 401(k) with company match
• Comprehensive health insurance with dependent care options
• Dental & vision coverage
• Life insurance
• Generous PTO accrual & company holidays
• Parental leave

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply directly or send your resume to jeff@nexagensearch.com.