Senior Scientist, In Vivo Pharmacology

Stoke Therapeutics (Nasdaq: STOK) is a biotechnology company dedicated to restoring protein expression by harnessing the body’s potential with RNA medicine. Using Stoke’s proprietary TANGO (Targeted Augmentation of Nuclear Gene Output) approach, Stoke is developing antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to selectively restore naturally-occurring protein levels. Stoke’s first medicine in development, zorevunersen, has demonstrated potential for disease modification in patients with Dravet syndrome and is currently being evaluated in a Phase 3 study. Stoke’s initial focus is on diseases of the central nervous system and the eye caused by haploinsufficiency (loss of ~50% of normal protein levels). Proof of concept has been demonstrated in other organs, tissues, and systems, supporting broad potential for Stoke’s approach. Stoke is headquartered in Bedford, Massachusetts.

About the role

The Senior Scientist will collaborate across the Research organization to support preclinical efforts in understanding target engagement, pharmacology, and efficacy of novel compounds in disease models. This position requires experience designing and executing in vivo studies and developing assays to investigate preclinical biomarkers in tissue samples. The role reports to the Executive Director of in vivo pharmacology.

Responsibilities

• Support the in vivo characterization of novel compounds by designing and conducting in-life studies and performing molecular analysis using internal and outsourced resources.
• Collaborate across functions to advance programs through preclinical proof of concept and candidate selection.
• Apply scientific judgment to adapt or create standard methods and techniques based on breadth of knowledge and prior experience.
• Develop and optimize preclinical biomarker assays to support discovery efforts and bridge into early development activities.
• Maintain excellent and timely recordkeeping while adhering to aggressive timelines.
• Author study reports that may be used for regulatory filings and scientific manuscripts.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with 16+ years of experience, Master’s degree with 10+ years of post-graduate experience, or Ph.D. with 6+ years of experience (industry experience is a plus). Degrees in Pharmacology, Neuroscience, or relevant disciplines highly preferred.
• Experience with intrathecal and intracerebroventricular dosing in preclinical models.
• Experience in drug discovery with an emphasis on neurology indications; experience with oligonucleotides is a plus.
• Experience designing and managing experiments at contract research organizations.
• Experience developing and optimizing assays in tissue matrix (e.g., MSD, ELISA, qPCR); IHC skills are a plus.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong planning, organization, and time management skills, including the ability to support and prioritize multiple projects.

Location

This lab-based position is currently located in Bedford, MA, and will move to Waltham, MA, by the end of 2026.

Travel

This position requires approximately 5% travel.

Pay

The anticipated salary range for this role is $154,000 – $179,000. The final offer will be determined based on role scope, experience, qualifications, education, market benchmarks, internal equity, and geographic location.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life, long-term, and short-term disability insurance.
• Paid parental leave.
• 401K plan with company match.
• Unlimited vacation time.
• Tuition assistance.
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP).
• Annual bonus and equity participation.

Culture & Values

At Stoke, innovation and collaboration are enhanced by periodic in-person work. Flexible work arrangements balance individual needs with business requirements. Stoke’s values guide the delivery of meaningful medicines, emphasizing authenticity, collaboration, and commitment to patients. Diversity, inclusion, and belonging are core to Stoke’s culture, supported by an employee-led DIB Committee.