Amgen Inc

Principal Scientist - Surface Biology Early Validation Lead

Amgen Inc$140K — $189K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Doctorate degree and 3 years of scientific experience, or equivalent work experience depending on degree
  • Minimum of 3 years managing teams or projects
  • PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or related field preferred
  • 5+ years leadership experience in a scientific setting
  • Strong track record in cell-based assay development and early target validation

Responsibilities

  • Provide leadership for a team focused on early target validation efforts
  • Design and execute cell-based and quantitative assays for membrane protein biology
  • Establish scalable workflows for multiple discovery programs
  • Interpret data and communicate actionable insights to project teams
  • Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to support discovery
  • Integrate data to inform target evaluation and prioritization
  • Identify new technologies to enhance assay robustness and throughput
  • Mentor and develop team members fostering a culture of collaboration

Benefits

  • Comprehensive employee benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Retirement and Savings Plan with generous company contributions
  • Discretionary annual bonus program
  • Stock-based long-term incentives
  • Award-winning time-off plans
  • Flexible work models where possible
Full Job Description
Career Category
Clinical
Job Description
Principal Scientist - Surface Biology Early Validation Lead

What you will do

Let's do this. Let's change the world. We are building a high-throughput surface biology capability to enable early validation and characterization of membrane protein targets across Therapeutic Areas. This work focuses on generating high-quality experimental data to deepen understanding of target biology and support downstream therapeutic exploration.

We are seeking an experienced Principal Scientist to lead a team focused on early-stage experimental strategies and assay development to evaluate membrane protein expression, localization, and internalization. In this role, you will guide the development and application of cell-based and quantitative assays, working closely with cross-functional partners to ensure data are robust, scalable, and aligned with discovery needs.

You will operate in a highly collaborative environment, partnering with Therapeutic Area teams and platform functions to deliver biologically relevant insights that support target evaluation.
  • Provide scientific and operational leadership for a team supporting early target validation
  • Lead the design and execution of cell-based and quantitative assays to discover and evaluate membrane protein biology
  • Establish robust, scalable workflows to support multiple discovery programs
  • Interpret experimental data and communicate clear, actionable insights to project teams
  • Partner with cross-functional stakeholders across the Discovery Sciences and Advanced Technologies and AI organization, Therapeutic Discovery, and Therapeutic Areas.
  • Collaborate across teams to integrate data and inform target evaluation and prioritization
  • Identify and implement new technologies to enhance assay robustness and throughput
  • Mentor and develop scientists, fostering a culture of rigor, collaboration, and accountability


What we expect of you

We are all different, yet we all use our unique contributions to serve patients. The professional we seek is a Principal Scientist with these qualifications.

Basic Qualifications:
  • Doctorate degree and 3 years of scientific experience OR
  • Master's degree and 7 years of scientific experience OR
  • Bachelor's degree and 9 years of scientific experience OR
  • Associate's degree and 12 years of scientific experience OR
  • High school diploma / GED and 14 years of scientific experience
  • In addition to meeting at least one of the above requirements, you must have a minimum of 3 years of experience directly managing people and/or leadership experience leading teams, projects, programs, or directing the allocation of resources. Your managerial experience may run concurrently with the required technical experience referenced above

Preferred Qualifications:
  • PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or related discipline
  • 5+ years of relevant industry experience, including leadership of scientific projects or teams
  • Expertise in cell-surface biology, membrane protein biology, protein trafficking, receptor biology, or related areas of cell biology.
  • Demonstrated experience developing quantitative cell-based assays to characterize target biology and support early target validation.
  • Understanding of the biological properties that influence therapeutic modality selection, including antigen density, accessibility, internalization, and receptor trafficking.
  • Experience investigating mechanisms that regulate cell-surface localization, such as protein topology, intracellular trafficking, alternative splice isoforms, or post-translational processing.
  • Experience with flow cytometry, microscopy, high-content imaging, proteomics, or related quantitative approaches.
  • Proven scientific leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and strong communication skills


What you can expect of us

As we work to develop treatments that take care of others, we also work to care for your professional and personal growth and well-being. From our competitive benefits to our collaborative culture, we'll support your journey every step of the way.

The expected annual salary range for this role in the U.S. (excluding Puerto Rico) is posted. Actual salary will vary based on several factors including but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, and qualifications.

In addition to the base salary, Amgen offers a Total Rewards Plan, based on eligibility, comprising of health and welfare plans for staff and eligible dependents, financial plans with opportunities to save towards retirement or other goals, work/life balance, and career development opportunities that may include:
  • A comprehensive employee benefits package, including a Retirement and Savings Plan with generous company contributions, group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts
  • A discretionary annual bonus program, or for field sales representatives, a sales-based incentive plan
  • Stock-based long-term incentives
  • Award-winning time-off plans
  • Flexible work models where possible. Refer to the Work Location Type in the job posting to see if this applies.

Salary Range
140,123.35USD -189,578.65 USD

About Amgen Inc

Amgen is a biotechnology company that develops and manufactures human therapeutics for various illnesses and diseases. The company is values-based and deeply rooted in science and innovation to transform new ideas and discoveries into medicines for patients with serious diseases. They offer products for treating illness in the areas of oncology/hematology, cardiovascular, inflammation, bone health, nephrology, and neuroscience.

Amgen Inc Careers

Join the dynamic team at Amgen Inc, a biotechnology pioneer dedicated to discovering, developing, and delivering innovative human therapeutics. At Amgen, we offer more than just job opportunities; we invite you to be part of a culture of leadership, diversity, and innovation.

Work You’ll Do

At Amgen Inc, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, engaging in work that brings real solutions to patients worldwide. Our commitment to your career growth is evident in our professional development and leadership training programs designed to nurture your potential.

Innovate and Lead

Amgen Inc stands at the forefront of biotech innovation. Our team is constantly pushing the boundaries of science and technology. By joining us, you will contribute to a legacy of medical breakthroughs that improve the lives of millions.

Be Part of a Great Team

Amgen’s inclusive culture and commitment to diversity are integral to our success. We believe in empowering our employees with the skills and networking opportunities they need to thrive. Our team’s collaboration is the key to developing groundbreaking solutions.

Future-Proof Your Career

Amgen Inc offers a variety of career paths, from research and development to marketing and sales, providing near-limitless opportunities for advancement. Whether you are looking for a full-time position, an internship, or a leadership role, Amgen has a place for you. Our robust benefits package supports the well-being of our employees and their families, contributing to a fulfilling work-life balance.

Explore Job Opportunities

Discover the impact you can make with a career at Amgen Inc. We are hiring creative, curious, and motivated individuals ready to face challenges head-on. Explore our open positions that match your skills and interests.

Stay Connected

Join our team and stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await.

Interview and Resume Tips

Prepare for your future with Amgen Inc by utilizing our resources designed to enhance your interview skills and polish your resume. Our hiring process is designed to identify and attract professionals who are driven to make a difference.

Amgen Inc—Where Careers Grow

At Amgen Inc, we are committed to turning innovative science into value for patients. If you are passionate about joining a team that makes a difference, search Amgen jobs today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career.

SEARCH AMGEN JOBS

READ CAREERS BLOG

JOB ALERT EMAILS

Join us at Amgen Inc, where your career can flourish in an environment of innovation, leadership, and growth.
Learn more about Amgen Inc
Size
24,200 employees
Market Cap
$141.2 billion
Industry
Net Income
$7.2 billion
Founded
1980
5 Year Trend
+2.5%
Revenue
$25.4 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Amgen Inc

More Pharmaceuticals & Biotech Jobs

Find similar Principal Scientist - Surface Biology Early Validation Lead jobs: