PK/PD Scientist

About Capricor Therapeutics

Capricor Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to developing transformative therapies for rare diseases, with a primary focus on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). We are pioneers in cell therapy and exosome-based technology, leveraging our proprietary StealthX platform to engineer innovative treatments. Our team is committed to harnessing cutting-edge science and advanced technologies to meet the unmet needs of patients living with DMD and other challenging medical conditions. Join us on our journey as we push the boundaries of medical science and pave the way for a healthier future.

Position Overview

The PK/PD Scientist plays a pivotal role in advancing Capricor's innovative therapeutic pipeline by designing, executing, and analyzing preclinical pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) studies. Reporting to the Preclinical Research Lead, this position is responsible for conducting in vivo studies, including compound dosing, sample collection, and data analysis, to generate high-quality PK/PD data to inform therapeutic development. The ideal candidate is a highly skilled scientist with expertise in animal models, PK/PD study design, and data interpretation, coupled with a passion for scientific discovery. This role offers the opportunity to work alongside a dynamic and collaborative team to develop a novel therapeutic modality, contributing to Capricor's mission of delivering transformative treatments for rare diseases.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct in vivo PK/PD studies, including rodent dosing via intravenous (IV), intraperitoneal (IP), subcutaneous (SC), intramuscular (IM), and intratumoral (IT) injections, to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and efficacy of therapeutic candidates.

• Perform animal husbandry tasks, including breeding setups, genotyping sample collection, and general animal care, ensuring compliance with IACUC-approved protocols, policies, and procedures.

• Collect and process biological specimens, including blood (via submandibular and/or cardiac puncture), necropsies, and tissue samples, for downstream PK/PD and biomarker analysis.

• Develop and optimize genotyping assays and manage sample processing to support preclinical studies.

• Analyze experimental data, including animal weight, blood analyses, and other project-specific tests, to generate PK/PD profiles and support data-driven decision-making.

• Perform and interpret protein-based assays (e.g., Western Blots, ELISA, flow cytometry) to support PK/PD and efficacy studies, as needed.

• Utilize IVIS imaging for in vivo studies to assess biodistribution and therapeutic effects, if applicable (preferred but not required).

• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks, analyze complex PK/PD datasets, and present findings at internal project team meetings to communicate insights and drive project strategy.

• Execute, troubleshoot, and optimize standard and novel protocols for in vivo procedures, ensuring scientific rigor and adherence to research guidelines.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, clinical, and regulatory, to integrate PK/PD data into broader therapeutic development plans.

• Contribute to the preparation of regulatory documents and scientific publications, ensuring accurate representation of PK/PD study results.

• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the preclinical research team and organizational objectives.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (PhD preferred; Master's considered with significant experience) in pharmacology, biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, molecular biology, or a related discipline.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in preclinical PK/PD studies within the biotech, pharmaceutical, or related industry, with a focus on animal models and therapeutic development; candidates with 5-7 years of experience may qualify for a Senior PK/PD Scientist level.

• Demonstrated expertise in designing and conducting in vivo studies, including proficiency in dosing techniques (IV, IP, SC, IM, and IT injections) and biological specimen collection (e.g., blood via submandibular and/or cardiac puncture, necropsies, tissue collection).

• Experience with protein-based assays (e.g., Western Blots, ELISA, flow cytometry) and familiarity with IVIS imaging preferred.

• Strong knowledge of IACUC protocols, policies, and procedures, with a commitment to ethical animal care practices.

• Proficiency in PK/PD data analysis and interpretation, with experience using relevant software (e.g., Phoenix WinNonlin, GraphPad Prism) and basic statistical analysis.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) for data analysis, reporting, and presentations.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document experiments rigorously, present complex data clearly to internal teams, and contribute to scientific publications.

• Highly motivated, collaborative, and adaptable, with a passion for scientific discovery and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to multitask, prioritize work, and adapt to a flexible schedule as needed.

• Hybrid role based in San Diego, CA, with flexibility for remote work; occasional travel (up to 10%) for scientific conferences or collaborations may be required.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Professional laboratory and office setting with a hybrid work model (remote and onsite).

• Ability to work in a controlled laboratory environment, including handling animals and biological samples.

• Capability to sit, stand, and use laboratory equipment for extended periods.

• Occasional lifting of materials or equipment up to 20 pounds.

• Willingness to adhere to safety protocols and wear personal protective equipment as required.

Why Capricor?

Capricor Therapeutics is an industry leader in cell and exosome therapy, pushing boundaries to create innovative treatments that raise the standard of care. Grounded in integrity and driven by science, our team is committed to making a meaningful impact through patient-centered innovation. Join us and be part of a team that's changing lives-help us shape the future of healthcare.

Compensation (USD)

• Salary Range: Competitive, commensurate with experience.

• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, equity awards, and opportunities for professional development.

Come work with us!

At Capricor, we offer a collaborative work environment that supports your professional growth. Join a passionate team committed to transforming the lives of patients and pushing the boundaries of medical science.