Principal Scientist, Pharmacology

About the Role: We are seeking a Principal Scientist in Pharmacology to lead molecular biology strategy and execution for studies that characterize the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, biodistribution, target engagement, and activity of RNA therapeutic candidates. This hands-on scientific leadership role will own studies from experimental design through data interpretation and integrate molecular readouts with in vivo and program data to guide development decisions. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in quantitative molecular biology, assay development, and analysis of complex biological samples, with a record of setting technical direction, solving ambiguous scientific problems, and working effectively across pharmacology, discovery biology, chemistry, and data science. Title will be commensurate with experience. Scientific Responsibilities Design and lead quantitative molecular biology studies supporting pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, biodistribution, target engagement, and gene expression assessments Develop, optimize, qualify, and oversee workflows for RNA and DNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, RT-qPCR, qPCR, ddPCR, and related molecular assays across programs Establish robust sample-processing workflows across cells, tissues, and biofluids, including homogenization, lysis, cleanup, quantification, normalization, and RNase-free handling Translate program questions into study strategies with appropriate controls, acceptance criteria, replication, timelines, and sample requirements Analyze and integrate complex datasets, including relative and absolute quantification, assay performance metrics, and relationships among molecular, exposure, efficacy, and other pharmacology readouts Lead troubleshooting and root-cause investigations for assay and instrument performance, and implement durable improvements to experimental workflows Establish and maintain SOPs, assay qualification summaries, data analysis templates, and training materials that support reproducible execution across the team Ensure accurate, real-time documentation in the electronic lab notebook, including protocols, raw data, deviations, quality-control decisions, and scientific interpretation Coordinate cross-functionally so sample generation, handling, analysis, and reporting remain aligned with study objectives and program timelines Present data with clear context, controls, conclusions, and recommendations, and use the results to guide experimental plans and program decisions Leadership Responsibilities Lead quantitative molecular biology strategy across one or more pharmacology programs, aligning assay plans with biological questions, technical feasibility, and program priorities Own molecular assay platforms end to end, including capability building, performance tracking, risk identification, resource planning, and continuous improvement Identify and implement new technologies, analytical approaches, and external capabilities that expand the pharmacology toolkit Mentor scientists and research associates, providing technical guidance and maintaining a high bar for rigor, reproducibility, documentation, and scientific interpretation Serve as a scientific leader across functions and external collaborations, integrating molecular and in vivo evidence into program strategy and scientific communications

What We Are Looking For: PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Pharmacology, Bioengineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of advanced training and relevant industry experience Deep hands-on experience with quantitative PCR methods and molecular assay development, including work with complex tissue or biofluid samples Demonstrated ability to design pharmacology studies, interpret pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic readouts, and integrate molecular results with cross-functional datasets Experience with RNA therapeutic development including preclinical pharmacology data preparation and presentation for scientific and regulatory interactions. Ability to work on site in our laboratory at Research Park at Marina Village in Alameda, California