Research Associate - Drug Discovery

We are seeking an energetic and self-motivated PhD scientist who will do well in the vibrant environment of a startup company and who enjoys taking on new challenges on a daily basis. The candidate will lead a small molecule drug discovery project for CNS indications. Responsibilities include design, execution and interpretation of cell-based assays and in vitro pharmacology experiments for hit ID and hit-to lead optimization. This position requires someone who has the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Role & Responsibilities:

• Implementation of high-throughput screening methods including compound screening formats, laboratory instrumentation and automation, data analysis and management, and a sound knowledge of the drug discovery process
• Work with multidisciplinary, internal and external project teams to design, execute, analyze and document experiments
• Provide molecular and cell pharmacology expertise for the optimization of novel therapeutics using suitable cellular assays
• Present experimental design, protocols, results and interpretations in group and project team meetings

Additional Skills (preferred, but not required):

• Excellent management, training and education skills
• Ability to work independently and in a team-based environment
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

Attributes:

• PhD in molecular biology, pharmacology or related discipline with 1-3 years of laboratory experience in an industry or academic drug discovery setting
• Highly organized with painstaking attention to details
• Proven technical experience in drug discovery
• Excellent record keeping and technical writing and communication skills
• Self-directed and enthusiastic about collaborating with a strong and diverse inter-disciplinary team of scientists of various backgrounds at industry and academic partner institutes