Biological Scientist - Center for Therapeutic Discovery

The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute seeks a scientist with experience in cancer biology, cell biology and preclinical characterization of small molecules at the newly established Center for Therapeutic Discovery (CTD). This is a unique opportunity for a PhD-level biologist to be involved in high-impact drug discovery projects in the newly developed center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

In this role, you will focus on the biological characterization of therapeutic targets and associated pathways. The biology group will also play an important role in preclinical characterization of novel small molecules discovered in the Center for Therapeutic Discovery (CTD). Your group will work closely with chemistry, biochemistry, and pharmacology groups to best support the development of novel therapeutics. The candidate will provide insights that impact the direction of our research, while also driving lab-based innovations. The individual will regularly present progress to the rest of the group and key stakeholders. You will interface with the Center leadership and with faculty and staff at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. To be successful, we expect you to have strong technical, communication, and organizational skills.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

• Independently plan, manage, and perform biological experiments. Develop project proposals, timelines and resource needs, working closely with the Portfolio Manager and leadership. Monitor milestones and ensure deliverables are completed on time
• Collect and analyze experimental data and identify next steps based on outcomes
• Train research technicians and other scientific staff in methods/techniques

• Develop, perform, and analyze screening assays to evaluate the activity of small molecules

• Develop, implement, and deliver mechanistic insights into the mechanism of action
• Work closely with chemistry, biochemistry and proteomics teams to guide compound optimization and project progression
• Prepare presentations and present project status and outcomes at internal and external meetings
• Interact and liaise with internal experts, external experts, academic groups, and CROs to establish collaborations and projects
• Maintain clear and accurate records of experimental work (e.g., experimental methods, results/findings)

• Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Cellular and Molecular Biology or related fields (2+ years of relevant postdoc or industry experience preferred).

• Expert in characterization of cellular responses to pathway perturbation by small molecules or genetic inactivation.

• Expertise in cell-based assays including ELISA, viability, RNAseq and luminescence or imaging-based fluorescence formats

• Skilled in design and establishment of reporter cell lines i.e. transient expression, endogenous tagging and stable cell line generation
• Demonstrated leadership in research projects related to drug development or translational applications
• Scientific drive, demonstrated by a proven track record of publications in peer reviewed journals
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a collaborative and team environment
• Proficiency in all common Microsoft Office, Snapgene and GraphPad Prism software
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills. Strong attention to detail

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

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