Overview

The Discovery Biologist is responsible for designing and executing biological experiments to support early-stage drug discovery programs. The role involves target validation, assay development, biological screening, mechanistic studies, and collaboration with medicinal chemistry and translational research teams to identify and optimize potential therapeutic candidates.

Key Responsibilities

1. Target Identification & Validation
   • Support identification and validation of novel therapeutic targets.
   • Conduct molecular and cellular biology experiments to assess target relevance.
   • Analyze disease pathways and biological mechanisms for drug discovery.
2. Assay Development & Optimization
   • Design, develop, validate, and optimize:
   • Biochemical assays
   • Cell-based assays
   • Functional screening assays
   • Ensure assay robustness, reproducibility, and scalability for screening purposes.
3. Biological Screening & Data Analysis
   • Perform compound screening and evaluate biological activity.
   • Interpret screening results and generate scientific insights for lead optimization.
   • Analyze experimental data using statistical and bioinformatics tools.
4. Experimental Execution
   • Cell culture and maintenance
   • Molecular cloning
   • Protein expression and purification
   • Western blotting / ELISA / PCR / qPCR
   • Flow cytometry
   • Immunoassays and imaging-based assays
5. Cross-Functional Collaboration
   • Medicinal Chemistry for SAR-driven optimization
   • DMPK / ADME teams for pharmacological profiling
   • Bioinformatics / Computational Biology teams
   • Preclinical / Translational teams
6. Scientific Documentation & Reporting
   • Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and study records.
   • Prepare technical reports and scientific presentations.
   • Present findings during project reviews and scientific meetings.
7. Innovation & Research Advancement
   • Review scientific literature and identify emerging technologies.
   • Recommend novel experimental approaches and process improvements.
   • Contribute to publications, patents, and scientific strategy discussions.

Skills Required

1. Molecular Biology
   • PCR / qPCR
   • Cloning
   • DNA/RNA extraction
   • Gene expression analysis
2. Cell Biology
   • Mammalian cell culture
   • Cell viability/proliferation assays
   • Transfection techniques
3. Protein Biology
   • Protein purification
   • Western blotting
   • ELISA
   • Immunoprecipitation
4. Analytical & Data Skills
   • Experimental data interpretation
   • Statistical analysis software
   • Bioinformatics tools (preferred)