What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Scientist, In Vitro Pharmacology position at Axonis Therapeutics?
We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist, In Vitro Pharmacology to join our growing team. This individual will report directly to the Director, In Vitro Pharmacology. The successful candidate will have expertise developing and applying in vitro pharmacology techniques for models of neurological, psychiatric, and pain disorders, and have hands-on experience designing, developing, and executing in vitro pharmacology assays that inform efficacy, potency, and the mechanism of action of novel therapeutics. This role offers the opportunity to drive in vitro assay development and compound screening efforts, manage external collaborations, and present key findings to leadership and other stakeholders.
Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and validate in vitro pharmacology assays (e.g., cell-based, biochemical, electrophysiological) to characterize novel compounds in models of neurological, psychiatric and pain disorders.
- Execute and analyze structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, screening novel compounds to support medicinal chemistry optimization for KCC2-targeted therapeutics.
- Drive progress of discovery programs while “leading from the bench”.
- Manage and oversee studies conducted at CROs, ensuring scientific rigor, clear communication, and timely delivery.
- Critically analyze complex datasets, integrating results with PK/PD and mechanistic insights to support data-driven decisions.
- Present scientific findings and recommendations clearly and effectively to cross-functional teams, senior leadership, and external collaborators.
- Contribute to strategic program decisions, working closely with leadership and cross-functional partners in a fast-paced research environment.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Cell Biology, or a related discipline with a minimum of 2 years of industry experience in CNS drug development.
- Strong background in in vitro pharmacology, novel assay development and validation.
- Must have expertise in at least one of the following four areas:
- 1) cell-based and/or biochemical assay development, validation and implementation,
- 2) electrophysiology (e.g., patch-clamp/MEA, ion channel/transporters),
- 3) SLC function /transport/ binding assay,
- 4) prior experience in small-molecule drug discovery and screening.
- Demonstrated proficiency in designing and interpreting dose-response and structure-activity relationship data.
- Proven track record of independent research and contributions to drug discovery and development programs.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, teamwork, and leadership skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and synthesize complex data.
- Experience managing CROs and cross-functional collaborations.
- Collaborative mindset, creativity, “can do attitude” and adaptability in a nimble, entrepreneurial biotech environment.
- Legally authorized to work in the US via US citizenship or residency.
Please contact careers[at]axonis.us to share your resume and learn more.
About Axonis Therapeutics:
Axonis Therapeutics is a Boston-based, neuro-focused biotechnology company developing a portfolio of first- and best-in-class medicines targeting KCC2, a genetically validated critical mediator of inhibition within the brain. Axonis has brought together a collaborative, creative and determined team of world-leading experts in neuroscience and drug development to discover and develop novel treatments for epilepsy, pain and other neurological disorders. With its proprietary KCC2 discovery engine based on breakthrough science from Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard and Laval University, Axonis is poised to make a real difference for patients, their families, and the global healthcare system.
EEOC Statement: Axonis believes in a diverse environment and is committed to equal employment opportunity for all its employees and qualified applicants. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. In addition, Axonis will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.