Scientist / Senior Scientist - In Vivo & In Vitro Pharmacology, Oncology

Position Summary

Firefly Biologics is seeking a highly motivated Scientist or Senior Scientist to join our in vivo and in vitro pharmacology team with a focus on oncology drug discovery. This lab-based role will contribute to all phases of preclinical development, with a particular emphasis on antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in mouse oncology models, biologics pharmacology, and biomarker assay development, and will play a key role in advancing our therapeutic pipeline.

You will lead the design and execution of in vivo efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetic (PK), and pharmacodynamic (PD) studies, and contribute to in vitro cell-based assays assessing target engagement, pathway modulation, cytotoxicity, and biomarker validation. Cross-functional collaboration with chemistry, biology, bioanalytical, and translational teams will be essential to align strategies and support data-driven decision-making.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of in vivo studies in tumor models (CDX, PDX, GEMMs) including efficacy, PK/PD, MoA, combination studies, and biomarker evaluations.
• Develop and execute in vitro pharmacology assays to support ADC mechanism of action and biomarker discovery.
• Synthesize complex pharmacology and biomarker data to provide strategic insights and recommendations for program advancement.
• Implement and analyze biomarker assays such as ELISA, MSD, flow cytometry, qPCR, Western blotting, and IHC.
• Drive the development and characterization of preclinical tumor models, ensuring reproducibility and appropriate use of standard-of-care controls.
• Manage and perform in vivo studies at internal vivarium facilities; coordinate with CROs as needed.
• Ensure ethical and regulatory compliance in animal studies and maintain rigorous, well-documented records to support IND-enabling studies.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams to align pharmacology and biomarker strategies with program goals.
• Present data clearly to stakeholders and contribute to study reports, regulatory documents, and internal decision-making.
• Mentor junior scientists and help foster a culture of scientific excellence and innovation.

Qualifications & Experience

• PhD in Oncology, Biology, Pharmacology, or a related field, with 5 years of relevant industry experience; MS with 6+ years may also be considered.
• Extensive hands-on experience with in vivo pharmacology techniques, including tumor implantation, dosing (IV, IP, SC, PO), blood/tissue collection, necropsy, and PK/PD sample handling.
• Proven ability to design and execute in vitro assays supporting drug MoA and biomarker assessment.
• Experience with ADC biology, antibody therapeutics, non-GLP tox, and mechanistic studies.
• Familiarity with regulatory documentation and contribution to IND-enabling studies is preferred.
• Proficiency in GraphPad Prism, Excel, PowerPoint, and standard data analysis tools.
• Strong communication, time management, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor junior staff.
• Comfortable working independently in a fast-paced, cross-functional team environment.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including some weekends, to maintain study integrity.