Scientist, CNS

Alkahest is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company targeting neurodegenerative and age-related diseases with transformative therapies derived from a deep understanding of the plasma proteome. Our approaches utilize in vivo, in vitro, proteomic, bioinformatic and molecular techniques to identify novel therapeutics.

Alkahest offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, opportunities for career growth and development, and a work environment that is collaborative, collegial, and fun.

Alkahest, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative team member who will be key in advancing our preclinical drug discovery and scientific initiatives with the therapeutic focus on cognition and disorders of the nervous system. The Scientist will use a combination of in vivo and ex vivo assays to prioritize, screen, and validate novel drug targets of interest. The ideal candidate will have experience with the validation of ‘omics datasets using molecular and histological endpoints of blood-brain barrier function and microvasculature. This is an excellent opportunity for a postdoc looking to make the career switch into industry and run their own independent projects, while still working in a collaborative team environment. The position provides a chance to add real value to an entrepreneurial organization that supports bold innovation and new ideas. As the candidate progresses at Alkahest, there will be opportunities to expand their research focus and manage their own team of Research Associates.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• FACS and validation of transcriptomic and proteomic datasets
• Molecular and biochemical assays on rodent and human tissues and plasma, such as ELISA, RT-qPCR, Western blot, and flow cytometry
• Histology, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, and image analysis, experience with microvasculature endpoints is beneficial
• Implementing, optimizing, performing, and troubleshooting in vivo rodent experiments and ex vivo follow up
• Investigating and developing new methods and technologies for project advancement
• Maintaining familiarity with current scientific literature
• Writing internal scientific reports and contributing to peer-reviewed scientific publications
• Presentation of research updates at internal company meeting and opportunities to present findings externally at conferences 

REQUIREMENTS:

• PhD with minimum of 2 years of industry and/or academic lab experience or MS with 5 years industry and/or academic lab experience
• Experience with FACS is necessary, preferable if performed on brain cell types
• Exposure to transcriptomic and proteomic data analysis and target validation is necessary
• Experience with the development of animal models of aging or disease is desired
• Experience with rodent dosing, behavior, histology, and molecular assays is preferred
• Background in molecular mechanisms of blood-brain barrier function or astrocyte biology
• Ability to work collaboratively and strong verbal and written communication skills
• Attention to details and strong organizational skills
• Strong sense of scientific rigor and integrity
• Passion for science and ability to take initiative on new projects

Applicants and new hires are subject to the Company’s Mandatory Vaccination Policy.