Scientist I, Discovery Biology

Vicinitas Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on targeted protein stabilizers known as Deubiquituinase Targeting Chimeras (DUBTACs). The company’s mission is to use this proprietary technology to solve critical problems in human health by developing next-generation disease therapies against an entire class of previously inaccessible disease-causing proteins. Spun out of an academic-industry collaboration between Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research and the University of California, Berkeley, Vicinitas Therapeutics is based in South San Francisco, California. For more information, visit www.vicinitas.com

We are seeking to hire an ambitious, creative, and talented Scientist to join our Discovery Biology research group. You will be part of the team responsible for leveraging our novel induced proximity and protein stabilization platform to develop first-in-class medicines and new chemical modalities. The ideal candidate brings expertise in disease biology, genetic engineering, genomic analysis and development of cellular assays. A background in industrial drug discovery and experience with novel heterobifunctional modalities, like PROTACs, is preferred. The ideal candidate is an open-minded and enthusiastic team player who enjoys problem solving and collaborating with other team members to further the research objectives of our company.

Successful candidates will be able to thrive in a fast-paced, action-oriented, team environment and display a clear passion for science and impact. The individual will have demonstrated evidence of technical expertise and experience overcoming challenges to move projects forward with urgency. Experience guiding junior scientific researchers technically and strategically will be a plus. The Scientist will be interested in contributing at the bench and will be dedicated to the scientific development of themselves and their group.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, plan, and execute cell and gene engineering for small molecule discovery projects across a range of therapeutic areas.
• Develop functional assays to enable SAR, MoA studies, target engagement measurement, and signaling pathway modulation.
• Review targets identified by our platform for potential as therapeutic targets.
• Build a robust infrastructure of laboratory protocols, tools, and systems that will scale efficiently.
• Ensure rapid and accurate turnaround of data, to agreed timelines, to drive achievement of key project goals.
• Translate experimental data into meaningful insights and present the analyzed data in team meetings.
• Work collaboratively in cross-functional teams with the protein science, pharmacology, and chemistry groups.
• Manage outsourced genetic and genomic analysis, establishing and maintaining excellent working relationships with CROs.
• Train and mentor junior team members.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or equivalent in oncology, molecular biology, synthetic biology, immunology, cellular biology, genetics, or related fields.
• Previous drug discovery experience is highly desired. BS/MS candidates with exceptional industrial experience and a track record of successful drug discovery will also be considered.
• Experience working with induced proximity technologies, such as PROTACs and molecular glues, is a huge plus.
• Sound knowledge of disciplines involved in drug discovery, including genetic engineering and vector design, cell-based disease models, target engagement and target modulation assays, cell viability assays, biomarker discovery, efficacy studies, etc.
• Therapeutic domain expertise in small molecule oncology drug discovery is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work within highly skilled teams in a fast-paced, quickly evolving technical environment.
• Strong organizational skills and knowledge of tools that facilitate effective project organization.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of conveying scientific information in a concise and effective manner.
• Competency in using data processing software (GraphPad Prism, etc)

Expected Salary Range: $125,000-$145,000 (Compensation and leveling will be commensurate with experience and expertise and could fall outside of the stated range)

In addition to competitive salaries, Vicinitas offer the following:

• Annual Bonuses
• Early-stage Equity
• Four Medical Plan Options
• Dental & Vision Coverage
• Short Term and Long-Term Disability
• Group Term Life Insurance
• FSA Plans (medical, dependent daycare and commuter accounts)
• 401k Plan
• Generous Annual Holiday Schedule
• Unlimited Flexible Time Off
• Annual Year-end Shut Down

Vicinitas provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to religion, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, alienage or citizenship status, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran or military status, predisposing genetic characteristics or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law.