Scientist, GPCR Biology - San Diego, CA

Scientist, GPCR Biology

Location: San Diego, CA

At dsm-firmenich, we decode human perception to create breakthrough taste and mouthfeel solutions. In this role, you will use your expertise in G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) biology, pharmacology and assay development to discover and characterize modulators of receptors involved in taste and oral sensations. You’ll partner closely with Biology, High-Throughput Screening, Chemistry and Data Science teams to translate receptor biology into new ingredient concepts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, build, and run cell-based GPCR assays to study receptor function and enable screening of agonists/antagonists/modulators (e.g., Ca²⁺ flux, cAMP, IP-One/IP3, β-arrestin, reporter gene, BRET/FRET-based readouts, SPRM), including assay optimization for robustness, throughput, and reproducibility.

• Drive GPCR pharmacology and structure–function investigations: interpret potency/efficacy, bias, desensitization/internalization, allosteric modulation, species variants, and key mutagenesis experiments to map binding and signalling determinants.

• Collaborate closely with Data Science and Computational teams to apply in silico drug discovery approaches, including molecular docking, structure‑based modeling, and AI/ML‑driven prediction methods, in support of GPCR discovery programs.

• Document, analyze, and communicate results through clear experimental design, statistics, and data visualization; contribute to internal reports, invention disclosures, and cross-functional decision-making in a fast-paced environment.

We Bring :

• The opportunity to work in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary R&D environment exploring receptors that shape taste and mouthfeel perception and their industrial applications.

• A culture that fosters teamwork, scientific excellence, safety, and well-being, with strong opportunities for learning and growth

• The chance to contribute to innovation platforms that connect receptor biology, sensory science, and data-driven discovery to deliver meaningful consumer experiences.

You Bring :

• PhD in Cell Biology, Pharmacology, Neurobiology, or closely related discipline, with hands-on, experimental expertise in GPCR biology.

• Strong publication record demonstrating in-depth understanding of GPCR signaling and pharmacology, including assay principles, controls, artifacts/interference, and quantitative interpretation (concentration-response modeling, potency/efficacy, bias concepts).

• Strong molecular biology (cloning, transfection, construct design, mutagenesis) and mammalian cell culture skills, with a track record of building reliable cell-based assays.

• Expertise with taste receptors, especially sweet and/or bitter taste receptors structure/function and signaling, and experience designing assays/counter screens suited to these targets highly desirable.

• Experience working at the interface of wet‑lab GPCR biology and in silico discovery, including collaboration on docking, structure‑guided SAR, or AI‑enabled screening and prioritization highly desirable.

• Receptor binding assay experience (radioligand or non-radioactive binding, kinetic binding concepts, competition formats) desirable.

• Data analysis skills in R or Python (dose–response fitting, visualization, statistical rigor) desirable.

The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will be based on the applicant’s job-related skills, experience, relevant education, or training, and primary work location. This position is also eligible for bonuses and benefits, which are not included in the pay scale provided. Salary $100,00-$140,000.

About dsm-firmenich

At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations –…