Associate Scientist, In Vitro Pharmacology & Biomarkers

Seattle, WA

Job Description

Cajal is seeking an Associate Scientist, motivated by Cajal’s mission to develop new medicines for patients suffering with neurodegenerative disorders. We are a multi-disciplinary team of experienced scientists, combining state-of-the-art approaches in computational biology, functional genomics, high-throughput imaging, translational models, and drug discovery. In a short time, we have assembled a terrific team of talented, innovative, and passionate individuals to transform the field of neurodegeneration drug discovery. We aim to identify novel drug targets based on a deeper understanding into the spatiotemporal progression of disease and translate those discoveries into therapeutics that change the course of neurodegeneration. Cajal is now expanding to establish a world-class drug discovery organization.

As the Associate Scientist, you will provide support in the analysis of preclinical and clinical samples in quantitative bioassays and in other bioanalytical activities that are crucial to the success of our research and development efforts. As a member of the Immunoassay team, you will contribute to the development and qualification of other protein-based and nucleic acid-based assays and in the assessment of assay platforms that could benefit Cajal’s early discovery and drug discovery efforts. The position involves collaborating with multiple departments within Cajal and externally with CRO’s.

Responsibilities:

• Establish qualified and validated protein-based and nucleic-based analytical assays that adhere to industry and GLP standards.
• Lead assay feasibility and provide recommendations for development and optimization.
• Seek out and assess new technologies, and implement such for reliable and robust bioanalytical capabilities.
• Establish and maintain a GLP-compliant laboratory and/or ensure GLP compliance of CRO activities.
• Serve as a technical resource within the functional area and assist junior employees as needed.
• Independently troubleshoot, propose and implement resolutions to technical challenges.
• Author and review technical reports, development reports and SOP’s.
• Manage sample/reagent inventories and the maintenance of scientific instruments.

This job might be great for you if you have:

• BA, BS, MS or equivalent in immunology, biochemistry, molecular biology or related field with 8+ years or Master's degree with 6+ years analytical laboratory experience in a biotechnology or pharmaceutical setting.
• Experience with bioanalytical assays on ELISA, bead-based (Luminex, Quanterix, flow cytometry) and/or microfluidics (Gyros) platforms.
• Experience in protein-based and nucleic-based assay development, qualification and/or validation.
• Experience working in CRO driven projects.
• Experience in conjugation chemistry including conjugating antibodies and other proteins to biotin, Sulfo-Tag and solid surfaces.
• Experience working with colorimetric assays for protein and compound analysis.
• Familiarity in the characterization of protein-protein interactions by SPR, a plus.
• Knowledge of cell-based activity or potency assays, a plus.
• Familiarity with automated liquid handler systems.
• Experience with LIMS, data analysis and productivity applications.
• Working experience in GLP environment and with SOP lifecycle and method transfer.
• Demonstrated strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and to ensure their timely completion.
• Have good attention to detail and meticulously documents experimental records.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate, interpret, and present complex scientific data.
• Excellent assay troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Thrives in a highly collaborative, team-oriented startup environment, loves working in the lab, is organized, and takes pride in your work.

Important Considerations

• Cajal’s science and collaborative culture is supported through our regular onsite connection.
• This opportunity does not offer visa sponsorship.
• The annual base salary range for this role is $105,000- $119,000 *

*Final salary depends on qualifications, experience, and level of skills relevant to the role, along with location, where applicable.

Company & Benefits

Cajal is a team of people-first individuals, motivated by our shared mission to advance the field of neurodegeneration. We are committed to ensuring that all our team members feel supported, connected, and energized at work. Our team members eagerly navigate the uncertainty and fast-paced environment of an early-stage biotech company and thrive on getting things done. We value creativity and curiosity in our work, and we take pride in the generosity, sincerity, and kindness of our team members.

Benefits include:

• Competitive compensation based on experience level
• Health insurance: 100% coverage of premiums for employee, partner, & all dependents
• Dental insurance: 100% of premiums
• Vision insurance: 100% of premiums
• Life insurance: 100% of premiums for 2x salary coverage
• Access to Flexible Spending Account
• 401(K) Plan with matching contributions
• 5 weeks paid time off plus 13 company holidays (2 floating)
• Cajal Parental Leave Supplement: Supplement to the WA Paid Family & Medical Leave program, bringing pay to the normal wage for up to 8 weeks for birthing parents or up to 4 weeks for non-birthing parents
• Generous commuter benefits including free metro cards, on site locker rooms/showers/towel service, modern bike cage and free bike tunes

Located in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle, Cajal sits at the heart of a vibrant biotech community, directly between research giants such as the Allen Institute and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. We are surrounded by fellow innovative biotech companies and startups and within a stone’s throw of the beautiful Lake Union and the University of Washington. Our state of the art office and labs offer natural light and stunning views of Lake Union, Gasworks Park and the Space Needle downtown. Our kitchen is fully stocked with coffee, tea, and snacks. All desks are sit-stand for maximal comfort and our meeting rooms seamlessly support hybrid teams.

Cajal is an equal opportunity employer that guarantees a work environment that respects and values diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you require any accommodations during the recruiting process, please coordinate with your recruiting contact.

To Apply

Please apply with your CV/resume and cover letter via Greenhouse.