Senior Research Associate - Preclinical Discovery

Salubris Biotherapeutics, Inc. (Salubris Bio, Gaithersburg, MD) is a science-driven biotechnology company dedicated to the discovery and global development of complex biologics for the treatment of cancer, cardiovascular, and metabolic (CVM) diseases. We strive to develop novel therapeutic molecules that provide clinically meaningful improvements in disease burden and quality of life for patients with significant unmet medical needs.

We are seeking a highly motivated, hands-on Senior Research Associate to support discovery and preclinical characterization of novel biologics for CVM diseases, such as atherosclerosis/dyslipidemia, obesity, metabolically-related liver or kidney diseases, and heart failure. The successful candidate will independently execute and troubleshoot cell-based and molecular assays in disease-relevant cell models and contribute data that directly drive candidate selection and program decisions.

This role works closely with cross-functional project teams in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

• Design, execute, and troubleshoot plate-based functional assays to characterize biologic candidates, including receptor-signaling and reporter assays (e.g., pERK, luciferase/reporter readouts), target-gene expression (qPCR), and cell-function readouts.
• Culture and maintain disease-relevant primary and immortalized cells, such as primary hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, adipocytes, macrophages, fibroblasts, and various rodent or human cell lines.
• Run CVM-specific in vitro models and assays.
• Support in vitro biochemical and biophysical characterization of complex biologics, including potency, target engagement, internalization, and stability assays.
• Analyze data with appropriate statistics (Graph Pad Prism, Excel), and present results and interpretation at project team meetings.
• Write and maintain assay protocols, and accurate, detailed records in an electronic lab notebook (ELN).
• Maintain safe and efficient lab operations, including inventory, reagent management, and equipment upkeep.

• BS with 3+ years, or MS with 1+ years, of relevant laboratory experience in biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, physiology, or a related discipline, preferably in a biotech or pharmaceutical setting.
• Strong hands-on mammalian cell culture skills, including primary cells; experience with hepatocytes, adipocytes, macrophages, and/or cardiomyocytes is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience independently running and troubleshooting cell-based assays with functional readouts (reporter, signaling, gene expression, or cell function).
• Experience in core molecular and biochemical methods: RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, Western blot, and immunoassays (ELISA or MSD).
• Sound troubleshooting and data analysis skills.
• Excellent organization, documentation, and communication skills; able to manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment.
• A positive, can-do attitude; thrives in a fast-paced, evolving environment; stays proactive and solution-oriented when facing ambiguity or setbacks.

• Experience in metabolic, liver, or cardiovascular disease research (e.g., MASH/NASH, obesity, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, heart failure).
• Experience in preclinical biologics discovery, including antibody, fusion-protein, or antibody-conjugate characterization.
• Familiarity with plate readers and analysis software (e.g., Soft Max Pro), high-content imaging, flow cytometry, or SPR/BLI.
• Familiarity with ELN/LIMS systems and MS Office.