Principal Scientist, In Vivo (CNS)
Principal Scientist - In Vivo Research (CNS Drug Delivery)
Location: Greater Los Angeles Area
Job Type: Full-Time | Preclinical Research | Early-Stage Biotech
About the Company
We are a venture-backed biotechnology company pioneering receptor-mediated delivery of biotherapeutics to the central nervous system (CNS). Founded in 2023 and built on deep academic expertise, our platform is designed to unlock the full potential of large molecule therapeutics-including antibodies, peptides, and oligonucleotides-for CNS indications. Our lead program is currently in non-human primate (NHP) studies, with a robust pipeline of discovery-stage assets advancing toward IND-enabling development.
With a leadership team composed of seasoned executives and scientists from top-tier pharma and biotech companies, we are entering a phase of rapid growth and scientific expansion. This is a unique opportunity to join a collaborative, mission-driven team at the forefront of CNS drug delivery innovation.
Position Summary
We are seeking an accomplished and driven Principal Scientist to lead in vivo pharmacology efforts supporting our CNS-targeted biologics pipeline. This individual will play a critical role in shaping and executing preclinical strategies, overseeing internal and external studies, and mentoring junior scientists. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in CNS pharmacology, large molecule drug development, and translational research.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, lead, and interpret in vivo pharmacology studies in rodent models to evaluate CNS-targeted biologics.
- Develop and refine pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) models and CNS biodistribution strategies.
- Oversee bioanalytical assay development and execution (e.g., ELISA, RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry).
- Guide histological and molecular analysis of CNS tissues; contribute to biomarker strategy.
- Lead cross-functional collaborations with discovery biology, bioanalytics, and external CROs.
- Mentor and supervise junior scientists and research associates.
- Contribute to IND-enabling study design and regulatory documentation.
- Stay current with emerging technologies and scientific literature in CNS drug delivery and biologics.
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, or a related field with 5-10+ years of relevant industry experience (or M.S. with 10+ years).
- Demonstrated expertise in in vivo CNS pharmacology, including rodent models and neuroanatomy.
- Strong background in large molecule therapeutics (antibodies, peptides, oligonucleotides).
- Proficiency in bioanalytical techniques (ELISA, RT-qPCR, tissue processing, IHC).
- Experience with primary CNS cell culture and/or iPSC-derived models is a plus.
- Proven track record of scientific leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and mentorship.
- Excellent communication, data interpretation, and scientific writing skills
FAQs
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