(Senior) Research Scientist, Biology

About the role

OnKure is looking for a Research Scientist/Senior Research Scientist to contribute to and advance cell biology and biological assay programs supporting our discovery pipeline. This individual will develop, execute, and interpret in vitro studies conducted both in-house and through external Contract Research Organizations (CROs). With strong scientific rigor and expertise in cellular, biochemical, and/or biophysical assay development, the successful candidate delivers high-quality, decision-enabling data.

Responsibilities

• In-House Lab Contributions:
  • Design, execute, and analyze key in vitro assays and in-house experiments
  • Follow best practices for assay development and validation, data integrity, and documentation
  • Maintain laboratory compliance with internal SOPs and safety regulations
• Scientific Leadership:
  • Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot cell-based, biochemical, and/or biophysical assays to support target validation, mechanism-of-action studies, and lead optimization
  • Generate robust, reproducible data packages to inform go/no-go decisions
  • Interpret complex biological datasets and present findings clearly to cross-functional teams
  • Contribute to experimental strategy and scientific direction within project teams
• CRO and External Collaboration Management:
  • Manage timelines, budget, and deliverables for external studies
  • Review, analyze, and interpret raw data, ensure scientific rigor, and provide feedback to CRO teams
  • Contribute to experimental design decisions
  • Maintain strong, proactive communication to ensure alignment and quality
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Partner with chemistry, pharmacology, translational, clinical, and project management teams to integrate biological insights into broader development strategies
  • Contribute to IND-enabling studies and regulatory documentation as needed
  • Support external presentations, publications, and investor materials as appropriate

Qualifications

• Research Scientist: Ph.D. in Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or related discipline or equivalent experience (or M.S. plus 3-5 years’ experience)
• Senior Research Scientist: Ph.D. in Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or related discipline with 3+ years of relevant industry experience (or M.S. with 8+ years)
• Expertise in cell-based assay development and biological characterization
• Strong data analysis skills (e.g., Prism, Excel, and statistical interpretation)
• Proven ability to work independently while contributing to team-based science
• Small molecule drug discovery experience preferred
• Experience supporting preclinical drug development programs preferred

About OnKure

We are a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing precision medicines that target biologically validated drivers of diseases underserved by available therapies. Using a structure- and computational chemistry-driven drug design platform, we are committed to improving clinical outcomes for patients by building a robust pipeline of small-molecule drugs designed to selectively target specific mutations thought to be key drivers of cancer and vascular anomalies.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and performance-based bonus opportunities
• Stock options
• Insurance coverage (health, dental, life, and disability) for full-time employees
• Self-managed paid time off
• 401(k) plan with company match

Pay

The annual compensation range for this role, based on experience, is $110,000-$140,000. Job level and compensation are dependent on relevant education and experience.

Candidates who live in or are willing to relocate to the Boulder, CO area are preferred.