Research Investigator, Lead Discovery - Cell-Based Assay Design

The Leads Discovery & Optimization (LDO) Group leverages technology, innovation, and broad scientific knowledge to deliver comprehensive in vitro data packages to support all phases of drug discovery at BMS.

As a Lead Discovery Research Investigator within the LDO, this individual will be responsible for the design, validation, execution, and interpretation of cell-based assays for small molecule high throughput screening in support of the broad BMS portfolio. This Research Investigator will have the opportunity to work closely with therapeutic area project teams to identify the appropriate assays, and in addition will interface with high throughput instrumentation scientists to adapt assays to cutting-edge automation platforms. The ideal candidate will have a strong working knowledge of fundamental principles of in vitro pharmacology and cell culture, including receptor-ligand interaction and intracellular signaling transduction pathways. In addition, hands-on experience with both protein (HTRF, BRET, luminescence, ALPHA technology, ELISA, western, etc.) and nucleic acid-based (siRNA/shRNA, RT-qPCR, etc.) cellular assay formats is strongly desired. This is a laboratory-based position.

As a member of the group, this individual will be expected to actively collaborate with multiple teams within LDO group such as the Cellular Technologies Group, Mechanistic Biochemistry, and Lead Evaluation. The Research Investigator will be expected to prepare and deliver effective presentations to project stakeholders. The ideal candidate will balance technical skills with critical-thinking and have demonstrated a track-record of rapidly driving high-quality, high-impact projects to completion. The successful candidate will have a can-do attitude and a drive to proactively facilitate the continuous improvement of processes and culture.

Duties/Responsibilities

Provide scientific and technical leadership within both the Lead Discovery and project teams

Design, optimize, and validate assays for small molecule plate-based high throughput screens

Utilize appropriate software and analytical tools to interpret and apply quality control measures to screening data

Effectively compile and present data to project teams in both written and oral formats

Qualifications

PhD with 2 plus years' relevant experience in cell biology or related scientific discipline. Industry experience is highly preferred.

In depth knowledge of general bioassay approaches such as fluorescence, Homogenous Time Resolved Fluorescence, and luminescence

Hands on experience with automated liquid handlers and microtiter plate readers

Practical experience in cell culture, cell-based assay development and execution, with a strong background in de novo assay design, quality control, and high-throughput processes is a significant plus

Strong written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated strength in a matrix organization

Track record of successful multitasking and rapid execution