Scientist I - In Vitro Pharmacology

About the role

This Scientist I position is responsible for strategy implementation and operations for conducting and summarizing pre-clinical in vitro studies internally and externally in support of RNAi discovery. The role designs, coordinates, and reports pre-clinical pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic in vitro experiments within research projects as part of target validation, target maturation, or mode-of-action studies. It also involves developing and improving in vitro models, contributing to innovation by identifying and exploring new therapeutic targets and principles, and communicating evaluations and implications of in vitro data internally, externally, and in regulatory submissions as relevant.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and summarize pre-clinical in vitro/in vivo studies, including siRNA drug candidate screening, hit identification, and lead optimization
• Perform in vivo drug candidate testing (e.g., mouse dosing; sample analysis)
• Design and conduct experiments to understand the mechanism of siRNA
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure smooth operations of studies
• Summarize and communicate findings internally and externally
• Identify and explore new therapeutic targets and principles
• Stay updated on advancements in the field of RNAi and biology
• Develop and optimize tissue-targeting strategies for siRNA therapeutics
• Evaluate and select targeting ligands and delivery technologies to enable efficient delivery to the intended tissue and cell type
• Design and conduct in vitro and in vivo studies to assess tissue distribution, cellular uptake, target engagement, and pharmacodynamic response
• Work closely with colleagues in other departments, such as Research and Development, to ensure alignment on study objectives and deliverables
• Translate scientific findings into actionable insights to further optimize siRNA platforms
• Analyze and interpret data from studies to generate meaningful insights
• Communicate the implications of data to internal and external stakeholders
• Stay updated on the latest advancements and best practices in siRNA screening and relevant biology through conferences, workshops, and training sessions
• Share knowledge and expertise with colleagues to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement

Qualifications

• BS/BA degree with 6+ years of relevant experience, or a master’s degree with 4+ years of relevant experience, or a doctoral degree
• Expertise in cellular and molecular biology is essential (e.g., mammalian cell culture; cell-based assays; quantitative real-time PCR)
• Experience with tissue-targeting approaches, such as ligand–receptor biology, receptor-mediated uptake, tissue biodistribution, and cell-type-specific delivery
• Proficiency in animal handling, dosing, and necropsy is preferred
• Ability to perform and interpret experiments rigorously and reliably and to advance projects aggressively toward defined goals
• Strong oral and written communication skills and a demonstrated ability to contribute effectively to group projects in a team-oriented environment
• Innovative and creative; takes initiative; a true team player with a high degree of energy and a passion for contributing to the discovery and development of novel therapeutics

Pay

The base compensation range for this position is $99,600 to $184,200. Base compensation is determined based on a number of factors. This position is also eligible for a company bonus based on individual and company performance. Novo Nordisk offers long-term incentive compensation and/or company vehicles depending on the position's level or other company factors.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life insurance and disability insurance
• 401(k) savings plan and flexible spending accounts
• Employee assistance program and tuition reimbursement program
• Voluntary benefits such as group legal, critical illness, identity theft protection, pet insurance, and auto/home insurance
• Time off pursuant to sick time policy, flexible vacation policy, and parental leave policy