Principal Scientist, ADCs Discovery Biology, Oncology Thematic Research Center

About the Role

Bristol Myers Squibb offers uniquely interesting work that transforms the lives of patients and the careers of those who do it. The Oncology Thematic Research Center at BMS is a fundamental research and early development engine delivering oncology therapeutics to patients. Scientists at this state-of-the-art research and development site in Cambridge focus on novel tumor intrinsic targets and pathways for tumors refractory to current Immuno-Oncology and Oncology therapies. We are a fully integrated drug discovery through translational and early clinical development organization, leveraging state-of-the-art in vitro, in vivo, and ex-vivo models of cancer biology.

We seek a creative and driven Principal Scientist to join our expanding ADC Discovery team and play an important role in advancing next-generation oncology therapeutics. In this role, you will independently lead antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) drug discovery programs from target concept to IND filing, leveraging proprietary technologies and collaborating with top experts in the field.

Responsibilities

• Lead highly matrixed ADC discovery teams from target concept to IND and lead/mentor a biology team supporting in vitro experimentation.
• Leverage current and new techniques for function-based identification and selection of antibody-drug-conjugate (ADC) lead drug candidates.
• Apply extensive technical knowledge to address ADC mechanisms of action, including evaluating novel payload classes and linker strategies.
• Collaborate with functional area leads (e.g., pharmacology, DMPK, bioinformatics, informatics, and predictive science) to drive programs forward, including helping to define program priorities and risks.
• Work with bioinformaticians and translational research scientists to design and execute studies supporting patient stratification and identification of appropriate target engagement PD markers.
• Present complex scientific concepts to a range of audiences including governance committees and full team project meetings.
• Communicate findings and progress clearly and effectively via email, written reports, and scientific presentations.
• Mentor and develop junior scientists within the team, fostering a collaborative and scientifically rigorous environment.

Requirements

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree and 8+ years of academic and/or industry experience, or
• Master’s Degree and 6+ years of academic and/or industry experience, or
• Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in the Life Sciences and 4+ years of academic and/or industry experience.

Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in the Life Sciences with 4+ years of industry experience in oncology drug discovery.
• Hands-on experience in the design, development, and optimization of high-throughput cell-based assays for antibody screening and ADC activity.
• Experience profiling and developing complex biologics (e.g., bispecifics, biparatopics, masked antibodies).
• Experience with linker-payload design and evaluation, including both cytotoxic and targeted payload classes.
• Experience contributing to an IND filing.
• Developing leadership skills with demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and mentor a team of lab-based in vitro biologists.
• Ability to efficiently manage and prioritize multiple projects, coordinating in-house research with collaborative work.
• Ability to summarize and interpret complex scientific data in a clear, concise, and accurate manner.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with peers, supervisors, and governance committees.
• Strong problem-solving skills and sound understanding of complex scientific principles.
• Demonstrated experience leveraging AI and data-driven tools to support scientific decision-making and program planning.

Benefits

• Health Coverage: Medical, pharmacy, dental, and vision care.
• Wellbeing Support: Programs such as BMS Well-Being Account, BMS Living Life Better, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).
• Financial Well-being and Protection: 401(k) plan, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, accident insurance, supplemental health insurance, business travel protection, personal liability protection, identity theft benefit, legal support, and survivor support.
• Work-life Benefits:
  • Paid Time Off for US Exempt Employees: Flexible time off (unlimited, with manager approval), 11 paid national holidays (not applicable to employees in Phoenix, AZ, Puerto Rico, or Rayzebio employees).
  • Paid Time Off for Phoenix, AZ, Puerto Rico, and Rayzebio Exempt, Non-Exempt, Hourly Employees: 160 hours annual paid vacation for new hires with manager approval, 11 national holidays, and 3 optional holidays.
  • Additional time off may include unlimited paid sick time, up to 2 paid volunteer days per year, summer hours flexibility, leaves of absence for medical, personal, parental, caregiver, bereavement, and military needs, and an annual Global Shutdown between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Pay

Cambridge Crossing: $156,180 - $189,252. The starting compensation range(s) for this role are listed for a full-time employee (FTE) basis. Additional incentive cash and stock opportunities (based on eligibility) may be available. The starting pay rate takes into account characteristics of the job, such as required skills, where the job is performed, the employee’s work schedule, job-related knowledge, and experience. Final, individual compensation will be decided based on demonstrated experience.

Schedule

BMS has an occupancy structure that determines where an employee is required to conduct their work. This role is Site-by-design, which may be eligible for a hybrid work model with at least 50% onsite at the assigned facility. Onsite presence is considered an essential job function and is critical to collaboration, innovation, productivity, and a positive company culture.