Sr. Scientist, Research Biology (In Vivo / Inflammation / Flow Cytometry)

We are seeking a highly motivated individual who is proficient in establishment and analysis of vivo murine models of inflammation. Proficiency in drug administration by multiple routes, disease scoring and tissue sample collection for ex vivo assays is expected. Significant experience in flow cytometry-based characterization of immune cells within tissues is required. The Sr. Scientist conceives experimental strategies and leads and participates in the design and conduct of experiments in biological systems to characterize and validate novel targets and test efficacy of potential therapeutics to prioritize them for further development in inflammatory disease areas; possesses knowledge of relevant experimental biology techniques, possibly including: molecular biology techniques, biochemical and cell- based assays, pharmacologic dosing, disease model testing. Understanding of PK and metabolism methodologies is preferred; participates in technology development in the area of ex vivo assays, and in vivo testing; interprets, communicates experimental findings and documents according to approved Nektar policy; maintains broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories, and develops and analyzes new product concepts by reviewing preclinical and clinical literature; may lead discovery teams, as necessary; mentors and guides junior scientists and may manage research associates.  This position contributes to and supports the company’s research and development efforts to create high value therapeutics to address unmet medical needs.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct in vivo pharmacological evaluation of test agents in inflammatory disease models.
• Proven skills in complex flow cytometry panel development and analysis of flow cytometry data from tissue samples from naïve and disease model setting.
• Conduct in vivo tissue inflammation murine models, have basic skill in administering test articles (i.v., s.c., i.p., and p.o.), making disease state describing in vivo measurements, support collecting samples for ex vivo assays. May assist in sample processing, homogenization, and generation of single-cell suspensions for ex vivo analysis including flow cytometry, blood and plasma cytokine measurements.
• Candidate will be responsible for entering and assist in analysis of data from concurrent multiple studies in a timely manner and must be able to communicate experimental results orally and assist in reports and regulatory documentation writing.
• Maintain familiarity with current disease relevant in vivo models for testing of mechanism of action and efficacy of novel drug candidates to support preclinical development and investigational new drug application filings.
• Works on complex problems in which analysis of data requires evaluation of various factors.
• Exercises judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions.
• Normally receives no instructions on routine work, general instructions on new assignments and may provide guidance to other lower level personnel.
• Synthesizes multiple data sources and draws general, non-obvious conclusions.
• Defines problems, develops approaches and develops experiments with sound judgment with minimal supervision.
• Uses professional concepts and scientific knowledge to contribute to the development of company concepts and principles to achieve objectives in creative and effective ways.
• Acts as a principal investigator in conducting experiments with team support.
• Participates in the development of patent applications. Interfaces with various departments, and external partners and CROs.
• Puts work practices in context with larger team.
• Coordinates activities with other team members.
• Writes complex reports and protocols.
• May assist with implementing organizational systems, identifying capital equipment, and projecting near-term resource requirements.
• May lead a small group, providing training as needed, and ensures adherence to company policies and quality requirements.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:

A PhD in a scientific discipline is preferred. Equivalent experience may be accepted. A minimum of 5 years work experience in a research and/or development environment is required. Post-doctoral work may serve as experience. Exceptional non-PhDs with demonstrated capabilities and/or significant experience may also be considered. Must be able to demonstrate success in technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others and independent thought. Must be current in field, while able to demonstrate expert knowledge in scientific principles and concepts.

Additional Requirements Include:

• Highly skilled in conducting flow cytometry studies with murine samples, collecting samples for ex vivo assays. Proficient is administering test articles (i.v., s.c., i.p., and p.o. required) if necessary.
• Experience in preparing basic drug formulations and dosing solutions is required.
• Understands and implements study protocols according to AAALAC and other guidelines.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team, provide and receive technical assistance to/from others in a wide range of laboratory-based activities/techniques, while displaying strong organizational and timely record-keeping skills.
• Interpersonal skills conductive to strong team integration and willingness to learn new techniques are essential.
• Ability to multi-task and perform work with a high degree of attention to detail while supporting programs in a fast-paced environment.
• May require occasional weekend hours.
• Must have excellent observational and analytical skills, strong organizational skills, and significant hands-on laboratory experience.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills is preferred.

Performance of tasks essential to the job function may require the employee to work directly with, handle, or otherwise come into contact with chemicals or pharmaceutical agents. Employees must be able to wear a respiratory protection (filtering facepiece, 1/2 face, full-face, or powered air purifying respirator, supplied air, or self-contained breathing apparatus) for certain tasks essential to the job function. Employees must be able to able to accurately detect color and have 20/20 vision (with/without corrective lenses). Employees may be required to enroll in a medical surveillance program based on the potential exposure to certain health hazards encountered as a result of their job function.