Associate Principal Scientist, Immunology Discovery

Job Overview

Associate Principal Scientist – Immunology Discovery

Location:

San Diego, CA

Our company is a global health care leader with a diversified portfolio of prescription medicines, vaccines, and animal health products. This role is part of the Discovery Immunology organization focused on developing innovative therapies for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases across Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, and Dermatology.

• Define and drive drug discovery immunology project and program strategies and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to achieve organizational objectives.
• Lead and participate in multiple teams to advance therapeutic candidates from early discovery to clinic, ensuring timely completion of milestones.
• Independently design, execute, and interpret complex in vitro and ex vivo studies aligned with program goals while overseeing the work of others.
• Identify, validate, and implement innovative approaches and technologies to increase efficiency and program progression.
• Share expertise and mentor less experienced scientists to promote scientific rigor, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Integrate and interpret complex data and communicate science and strategy to stakeholders and management.

• Ph.D. in immunology, cell biology, or a related biomedical science, with 5+ years of drug discovery experience at the discovery stage.
• Strong immunology background with extensive knowledge of immune‑mediated diseases in Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, or Dermatology and related preclinical models.
• Broad experience with cell biology techniques, including culture of cell lines and primary cells, in vitro and ex vivo assays, multi‑color flow cytometry, ELISA, and molecular biology methods such as RT‑PCR.
• Proficiency in data analysis using Excel, Graph Pad Prism, and Flow Jo.
• Ability to work independently within cross‑functional and matrixed teams, demonstrating strong problem‑solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Experience leading by influencing and mentoring others, with a track record of influencing program success.

• Leadership of cross‑functional biologics or chemistry discovery programs in Gastroenterology, Dermatology, or Rheumatology, including experience in large or small pharmaceutical environments.
• Translational research and biomarker discovery expertise.
• Experience with multiple therapeutic modalities (small molecule, peptide, biologic, etc.).

• Salary range: $142,400 – $224,100 (base).
• Eligibility for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, where applicable.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and other insurance for employee and family, retirement benefits such as 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days.

• Relocation:
  Domestic/International eligible.
• VISA Sponsorship:
  Yes.
• Travel Requirement: 10%.
• Shift: 1st – Day.

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We comply with affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit the EEOC website.