Principal Research Scientist, Cancer Biology

Principal Research Scientist, Cancer Biology (BH-397697)

Location:

South San Francisco, United States

Sector:
Science & Research

Salary: $70.00 to $85.00 per hour

A growing biotechnology organization is seeking a highly motivated and innovative Principal Research Scientist, Cancer Biology with deep expertise in cancer biology to join a high-priority discovery program focused on elucidating novel mechanisms driving tumor biology. This laboratory-based role will leverage advanced cellular and molecular biology approaches to investigate the mechanistic foundations of a promising therapeutic target and support the advancement of small-molecule drug discovery efforts.

The successful candidate will combine strong scientific rigor, technical excellence, and critical thinking to generate meaningful biological insights that inform therapeutic strategy. Working within a collaborative, cross‑functional environment, this individual will play a key role in shaping and advancing a pioneering cancer biology research program.

Location:

SSF

Pay: $70 - 85/hr doe

• Independently design, execute, analyze, and troubleshoot complex in vitro studies to investigate target biology, pathway regulation, and drug mechanisms of action.
• Develop and apply cellular models utilizing gene perturbation technologies, including CRISPR, siRNA/shRNA, over-expression systems, and pharmacologic interventions.
• Utilize a broad range of molecular and cellular biology techniques to explore oncogenic signaling pathways, protein function, cellular trafficking, immune-relevant phenotypes, and synthetic lethal interactions.
• Design and optimize mechanistic assays to interrogate target function and therapeutic response.
• Generate high-quality, reproducible datasets and apply rigorous quantitative analysis to derive mechanistic insights.
• Integrate data across multiple experimental platforms to develop and test biological hypotheses.
• Maintain meticulous experimental records and ensure adherence to high scientific standards.
• Partner closely with project teams to align experimental strategies with translational and therapeutic objectives.
• Present research findings and recommendations to multidisciplinary teams and senior leadership.
• Contribute scientific expertise to program strategy and help guide the evolution of research priorities.
• Collaborate effectively with external partners, CROs, and scientific collaborators as needed.

• PhD in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, or a related discipline.
• 4+ years of industry experience.
• Deep understanding of tumor biology, including cancer genomics, oncogenic signaling, cancer cell biology, synthetic lethality, and therapeutic vulnerabilities.
• Proven track record of independently driving hypothesis‑based research programs with minimal supervision.
• Strong expertise in molecular biology, cellular biology, biochemistry, and quantitative experimental design.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture, cell viability and proliferation assays, and multiparametric flow cytometry.
• Proficiency with gene expression analysis (qRT‑PCR, RNA isolation/preparation), protein characterization techniques (Western blot, ELISA, HTRF, MSD), confocal microscopy, and functional genomics approaches.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex datasets, synthesize findings, and communicate scientific conclusions effectively.

• Experience developing mechanistic assays focused on protein function, degradation, trafficking, or immune signaling pathways.
• Familiarity with computational tools for biological data analysis, visualization, and interpretation.
• Experience managing or collaborating with CROs and external research partners.

• Passion for scientific discovery coupled with a pragmatic, results‑oriented mindset.
• Intellectual curiosity and commitment to rigorous, data‑driven decision‑making.
• Thrives in a fast‑paced, discovery‑stage research environment.
• Adaptable and resilient when navigating scientific uncertainty and evolving priorities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across functions.
• Commitment to fostering a…