Research Scientist II / Senior, Translational Biology
JOB SUMMARY
Iambic Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Scientist to join our Translational Biology group and contribute to the discovery and development of small-molecule cancer therapeutics. This position plays a critical role in integrating in vitro and in vivo pharmacology, external CRO coordination, and mechanistic/translational research to advance pipeline programs. The candidate will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment alongside experts across discovery biology, pharmacology, computational teams, and external partners, and will contribute both intellectually and experimentally supporting biomarker discovery, mechanism-of-action (MoA) elucidation, resistance biology, and combination strategy development. The ideal candidate has hands-on expertise in cell cycle/CDK pathway biology and practical experience generating robust translational data packages that inform patient selection and clinical development strategy. This role is based at the San Diego headquarters.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Work closely with the Biology group/Project teams to design and develop translational studies for various programs
Design and manage in vivo pharmacology studies (PK/PD, efficacy, and toxicology with focus on oncology) at CROs
Design and execute hands-on experiments in cell and molecular biology, including: Cell proliferation and viability assays; ELISA, Western blot, qPCR, flow cytometry; Reporter and proximity-based assays (e.g., AlphaLISA, HTRF, NanoBRET)
Analyze and interpret data from internal experiments, CRO deliverables, and scientific literature to guide decision-making
Collaborate across functional teams to align experimental designs with project goals
Conduct literature reviews to support the mechanism of action, mechanism of resistance, and translational biomarker strategies
Present experimental results and project updates at internal team meetings
QUALIFICATIONS
PhD in biochemistry, cell biology, cancer biology, pharmacology, or related discipline with at least 2 - 8 years of relevant academic or industry experience
or MS with 7+ years / BS with 9+ years of experience
Experience in cancer research, mechanism of action/resistance, or translational biomarker development is highly desirable
Hands-on experience in in vivo pharmacology, including:
Designing and interpreting PK/PD and efficacy studies in oncology models, including combination studies
Familiarity with dosing strategies, route of administration, and biomarker collection (e.g., plasma, tumor tissues)
Oversight and coordination of in vivo studies at CROs, with ability to review protocols, QC data, and troubleshoot issues
Strong proficiency in cell and molecular biology, including cell culture, cell engineering, ELISA, Western blotting, qPCR, and flow cytometry
Experience developing and troubleshooting biochemical and cell-based assays to evaluate small molecule compounds
Ability to independently design experiments and analyze data to guide translational research objectives and early clinical development
Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively across teams
Highly motivated to learn new technologies and contribute across multiple projects
ABOUT IAMBIC THERAPEUTICS
Iambic is a clinical-stage life-science and technology company developing novel medicines using its AI-driven discovery and development platform. Based in San Diego and founded in 2020, Iambic has assembled a world-class team that unites pioneering AI experts and experienced drug hunters. The Iambic platform has demonstrated delivery of new drug candidates to human clinical trials with unprecedented speed and across multiple target classes and mechanisms of action. Iambic is advancing a pipeline of potential best-in-class and first-in-class clinical assets, both internally and in partnership, to address urgent unmet patient need. Learn more about the Iambic team, platform, pipeline, and partnerships at iambic.ai.
MISSION & CORE VALUES
Our mission is to deliver better medicines through innovations in AI-based discovery technologies. The culture and work at Iambic Therapeutics are profoundly strengthened by the diversity of our people and our differences in background, culture, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, and life experiences. We are committed to building an inclusive environment where a diverse group of talented humans work together to discover therapeutics and create technologies.
PAY AND BENEFITS
We offer industry leading competitive pay, company paid healthcare, flexible spending accounts, voluntary life insurance, 401K matching, and uncapped vacation to our team. We are in a brand-new state-of-the art facility in beautiful San Diego with an onsite gym, dining, and easy access to great places to live and play.