Senior Research Associate/Scientist, Pharmacology

DESCRIPTION

Kezar Life Sciences (NASDAQ: KZR), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, is looking for a skilled Senior Research Associate/Scientist for our Pharmacology group with experience in the development and execution of in vivo models of oncology and autoimmunity. We are focused on small molecule therapeutics to target autoimmune/inflammatory disorders and oncology based on the biology of protein homeostasis. Our lead compound, KZR-616 (a selective inhibitor of the immunoproteasome), is in clinical trials, and we have multiple drug discovery programs targeting protein secretion pathways for the treatment of cancer and autoimmunity. This is an exciting time and opportunity to significantly contribute to the research and development of novel therapies for serious diseases.

This candidate is expected to perform in vivo studies, including implantation and monitoring of tumor growths, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies, and mouse models of autoimmunity. In addition, he/she will perform necessary in vitro studies to support experiments such as cell culture, and ex vivo analysis of tissue samples and be able to organize data and analyze results with minimal supervision. They will work closely with our drug discovery project scientists on early and late-stage lead optimization of novel compounds leading to the nomination of new clinical candidates and furthering mechanism of action understanding of existing compounds.

Responsibilities:

• Design, plan and execute models including mouse models of oncology and autoimmunity
• Establish new animal models as needed
• Perform routine injections (sc, iv, ip and po), and blood collection
• Perform in vitro assays in support of in vivo studies including ELISA, multiplex assays, ex vivo cell culture and flow cytometry (FACS)
• Present study data at department meetings and propose future projects
• Work both independently and collaboratively with other R&D members in a multi-disciplinary team setting

REQUIREMENTS

• PhD, MS, or BS in immunology, biology, biochemistry, or another relevant field
• 5+ years of relevant experience in industry or academic setting
• Excellent hands-on in vivo skills: IV, PO dosing, tumor implantation, blood/tissue collection
• Experience with xenograft or syngeneic tumor models
• Demonstrated capability to train others in in vivo techniques
• Demonstrated ability to integrate knowledge from literature
• Proficiency in basic data analysis software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, GraphPad Prism) is required
• Excellent communication, time-management/organization, and presentation skills are necessary