What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Research Associate in Cell Biology position at Abilita Therapeutics, Inc.?
Location: San Diego, CA
Company Description:
Abilita Therapeutics is an innovation-driven biotechnology start-up company focused on enabling the discovery and development of drugs targeting undruggable membrane proteins, including G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs), transporters and ion channels. With our proprietary technology, Abilita aims to discover and develop transformative therapeutics to treat a wide range of diseases. For more detailed information, visit our website at www.abilitatx.com.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a skilled and motivated Senior Research Associate in cell and molecular biology to assist with ambitious discovery campaigns, with a particular focus on the downstream functional assessment of antibodies and small molecules for several GPCR targets. The ideal candidate will be highly versed in mammalian cell culture, cell-based signaling assays, and cloning techniques. Experience with flow cytometry is strongly preferred. The candidate will assist in building a unique pipeline of antibody and small-molecule therapeutic candidates. The successful candidate will be a proactive and resilient individual who thrives in a team-focused, cutting-edge environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with cell biology efforts that support translational goals from discovery through development candidate nomination.
- Assist with functional assay workflows that link molecular pharmacology to SAR hypotheses, PK/PD relationships, and translational biomarkers.
- Perform in vitro and ex vivo assays, including GPCR signaling and reporter assays, binding, trafficking, imaging, and mechanistic readouts, to assess potency, selectivity, and efficacy.
- Support the functional characterization and optimization of lead molecules, including antibody engineering, affinity maturation, and humanization.
- Produce high-quality, reliable data and maintain accurate, detailed laboratory records.
- Operate and maintain the relevant equipment.
- Maintain close collaborative interactions with colleagues within the research group and regularly communicate progress to the team or supervisors.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, or a related field (REQUIRED).
- Minimum of 5 years of mammalian cell culture and molecular biology experience (REQUIRED).
- Minimum of 2 years of GPCR-signaling assay experience in the laboratory (REQUIRED).
- Experience propagating mammalian cell lines and performing transient cell transfections (REQUIRED).
- Hands-on experience in GPCR biology, including signaling and trafficking mechanisms, multiple assay platforms (e.g., HTRF, BRET/FRET, reporter gene, etc.), and interpretation of complex pharmacology (e.g., biased signaling, allostery, receptor kinetics, desensitization) (REQUIRED).
- Experience with cloning, sequencing, and using basic molecular biology techniques (REQUIRED).
- Experience with bioinformatics tools is a plus.
- Demonstrated capability to independently design, implement, and troubleshoot experimental work in a laboratory.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with a commitment to maintaining accurate lab records.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
What We Offer:
- A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Stock options, giving you a significant stake in the success and growth of our company.
- The opportunity to be part of a cutting-edge company that is making a real difference in the field of small-molecule and antibody therapeutics for undruggable membrane proteins.
- A dynamic and supportive work environment that values innovation, creativity, and passion.
- Excellent career development opportunities.