Associate Scientist, Translational Biology

THE ROLE

The Associate Scientist will primarily be responsible for the development and conduct of in vivo, ex vivo, as well as in vitro studies in Translational Sciences to support the advancement of Septerna’s small molecule drug discovery pipeline. They will work independently and collaboratively in an inter-disciplinary setting to design and execute experiments in preclinical models to understand in vivo pharmacology, establish PK/PD relationships, and inform the efficacy of Septerna’s therapeutic candidates.  They will help generate and analyze functional in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo data to determine the therapeutic mechanism of action, and rank candidates for preclinical development.  They may also engage in biomarker discovery efforts by utilizing a variety of in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo models to enable and inform effective therapeutic development.  This role is expected to be primarily in the lab with some desk work. 

We are committed to the development of meaningful therapeutics for patients with indications of high unmet need. This is a tremendous opportunity to work with talented individuals on the frontlines of therapeutic discovery and development.  You will help move therapies through preclinical development, positioning them for success in the clinic.  The successful candidate will add their passion, unique talents, and expertise to a dynamic team on the frontlines of innovative therapeutic development.

The position is based in South San Francisco, CA.

*Title commensurate with experience

Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Design and execute in vivo pharmacology studies to understand therapeutic mechanism in relevant disease models
• Generate, analyze, document, and help interpret data to establish functional PK/PD relationships
• Work collaboratively to determine the mechanism of action of drug candidates in in vivo, in vitro and ex vivo models
• Be a member of multiple project teams and present results in lab, team and department meetings
• Perform in literature searches, read and interpret papers to help design and trouble-shoot in vivo and in vitro experiments
• Help in authoring in vivo pharmacology study designs, protocols, and reports to support regulatory filings
• Follow all company policies/practices, and maintain accurate records and notebooks 

REQUIRED EDUCATION, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• BSc or MSc in Pharmacology, Toxicology, or related biological science
• At least 4 (or 2 years with MSc) direct full-time hands-on experience with in vivo studies or disease models in academia or the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries
• Demonstrated ability to be hands on and work directly with rodent models (mice and rats), including multiple routes of administration (e.g. oral, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, intravenous, intramuscular) and sample collection (e.g. submandibular bleed, tail vein bleed, cardiac puncture, etc).
• Experience working with other scientists to analyze, interpret, and present data
• Ability to collaborate in writing protocols and trouble-shooting biological experiments
• Detail-oriented and organized, with strong interpersonal skills for clear and effective communication – ability to proactively engage and collaboration with colleagues

The anticipated salary range for candidates who will work in South San Francisco, CA is $100,000 - $110,000. Individual pay may vary based on additional factors, including, and without limitation, job-related skills, experience, work location and relevant education or training. Septerna's compensation package also includes benefits, stock options, and annual target bonus for full-time positions.