Job Type

Full-time

Description

Senior Scientist, Cell Biology

Palo Alto, CA

Key Responsibilities

Cell Model Development & Functional Biology

• Develop and optimize disease relevant cellular models to enable preclinical drug screening
• Perform genetic manipulation and engineering of primary cell systems to interrogate target biology
• Trans-differentiate primary cells into specialized lineages to enable disease-relevant functional assays
• Design and execute experiments to investigate RNA processing, gene expression regulation, and downstream cellular phenotypes

Mechanistic Biology & Data Interpretation

• Analyze complex cellular datasets to uncover mechanisms of action and inform program strategy
• Identify and characterize molecular phenotypes related to RNA splicing and cellular dysfunction using biochemical and imaging techniques
• Perform drug screening using cellular models to guide lead optimization
• Perform RNA seq, proteomics, and relevant assays to assess potential off-target risks
• Translate experimental findings into clear biological hypotheses and next-step recommendations

CRO & External Collaboration

• Lead scientific oversight of external partners and CROs conducting cell-based and molecular studies
• Design studies, review protocols, and ensure high-quality data generation aligned with program goals
• Serve as a key point of contact to drive efficient execution and clear communication

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with chemistry, translational, and computational teams to integrate data and guide decision-making
• Present findings to internal stakeholders and contribute to program strategy discussions

Preferred Education & Experience
• Ph.D. in cell biology, molecular biology, or a related field
• 3+ years of post-doctoral research or industry experience in drug discovery or early development
• Strong experience with primary human cell culture and engineering
• Strong expertise in RNA seq, RT-PCR, RT-qPCR for gene splicing analysis
• Proven track record of working with complex cellular models and functional assays
• Excellent data analysis, visualization, and scientific communication skills

Nice-to-Haves
• Experience with cell differentiation into specialized lineages (e.g., muscle or other relevant cell types)
• Familiarity with RNA biology, including splicing or transcript processing assays
• First-author publications in muscle cell biology/pathology
• Experience supporting or contributing to IND-enabling studies
• Background in translating patient-derived cell phenotypes into drug discovery insights

What We Offer
• Patient Days, where we are fortunate to hear directly from individuals living with the conditions we are seeking to impact throughout the year and learn how we can improve our efforts
• A culture inspired by our values: put patients first, think independently, be radically transparent, every minute counts, and let the science speak
• An unyielding commitment to always putting patients first.
• A de-centralized model that enables our program teams to focus on advancing science and helping patients. Our affiliate structure is designed to eliminate bureaucracy and put decision-making power in the hands of those closest to the science
• A place where you own the vision - both for your program and your own career path
• A collaborative, fast-paced, data-driven environment where we inspire ourselves and each other to always perform at the top of our game
• Access to learning and development resources to help you get in the best professional shape of your life
• Robust and market-competitive compensation & benefits package (Base, Performance Bonus, Equity, health, welfare & retirement programs)
• Flexible PTO
• Rapid career advancement for strong performers
• Potential ability to work on multiple GondolaBio Pharma programs across multiple therapeutic areas over time
• Partnerships with leading institutions
• Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The base pay range for this position is $155,000 to $175,000 per year. The actual compensation offered will be determined based on a number of job-related factors, including experience, skills, qualifications, and location. A bonus plan and equity will also be offered.