Lead the design and execution of in vivo pharmacology experiments to test compounds in rodent tumor models. Represent the pharmacology function on project teams and prepare study reports to support IND filings.
The Senior Scientist I is responsible for supporting in vivo pharmacology research efforts for various Biotherapeutics projects. The strong candidate must be a highly self-motivated, interactive, and productive hands-on PhD scientist. This individual will possess strong knowledge and hands-on experience with various animal models in cancer biology and immuno-oncology and be able to strategically incorporate the latest technologies into Pharmacology functions. The candidate must have a deep understanding of the concept of PK, PD, and efficacy, and be able to interpret their relationship.
Essential
DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: Lead, design, execute and interpret in vivo pharmacology (PK/PD/Efficacy) experiments to test the selected compounds in rodent tumor models. Hands-on in vivo work is required with support for external CRO studies when needed. Represent the Pharmacology function on Biotherapeutics project teams. Provide scientific support for the project teams and Biotherapeutics/Translational Pharmacology staff. Utilize literature and internal data sets to design and test hypotheses for drug targets. Prepare Pharmacology study reports for research findings and support IND filings. Collaborate with the IACUC committee to ensure compliance with internal policies and animal welfare regulations.
Supervisory
Responsibilities: None.
Education/Experience/Knowledge &
SKILLS:
Education: BS/BA in Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Cellular Biology or related field and a minimum of 7 years relevant experience; or, MS/MA in Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Cellular Biology or related field and a minimum of 5 years relevant experience; or, PhD in Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Cellular Biology or a closely related field and 0 years of relevant experience; or, Equivalent combination of education and experience.
Deep understanding of in vivo Pharmacology (PK, PD and efficacy) concepts for oncology drug discovery including I-O biology and related drug mechanisms. Extensive experience using in vivo tumor models for drug discovery with a proven track record in hands-on establishment, validation, and implementation of animal models for testing cancer therapies, including xenograft, syngeneic, genetically engineered mouse, orthotopic, PDX and humanized models to study biologic mechanisms. Proven track record of writing regulatory and IND filing documents in the pre-clinical Pharmacology section. Proven track record of good experimental design, in-depth data analysis and interpretations based on strong scientific rationale. Expertise in cell culture with aseptic technique and basic in vivo techniques (handling different routs of administration, blood collection, etc.) is a must. Strong scientific expertise with a good track record of publications. Experience working with CROs to coordinate and execute studies in a timely manner.
In vivo skills including, but not limited to, animal handling, dosing with different routes (po, iv, sc, ip, im, etc.), blood collection, tissue collection/perfusion, necropsy, tumor measurement, clinical observation, and rodent survival surgeries. Solid biological and mechanistic understanding of biologics in oncology and immune-oncology including specific and specialized readouts and protocols for in vivo studies. Understanding the regulations and guidelines of IACUC and AAALAC is a must. Has flexibility to adapt to a fast-paced work environment and coach junior scientists. Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills. Detail-oriented and able to problem-solve and offer potential solutions. Strong communication skills, excellent work ethic, self-motivation and ability to work effectively either in a team environment or independently. Advanced knowledge of MS Office, .pdf, GraphPad, Benchling notebook, and Studylog is required. Work Environment/Physical Demands: May require weekend and holiday work to support in vivo studies. Our office is a modern space that fosters collaborations and creativity. Teams work closely together, sharing ideas and solutions in a supportive atmosphere. We provide all necessary equipment, including dual monitors and ergonomic chairs, to ensure a comfortable workspace. #LI-HG1 Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several U.S. geographic markets, and we pay differently based on those defined markets. The base pay range for this position is $127,500 - $180,500 annually. The base pay range may take into account the candidate’s geographic region, which will adjust the pay depending on the specific work location. The base pay offered will take into account the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, experience and internal equity, among other factors. In addition to the base salary, as part of our Total Rewards program, Exelixis offers comprehensive employee benefits package, including a 401k plan with generous company contributions, group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts. Employees are also eligible for a discretionary annual bonus program, or if field sales staff, a sales-based incentive plan. Exelixis also offers employees the opportunity to purchase company stock, and receive long-term incentives, 15 accrued vacation days in their first year, 17 paid holidays including a company-wide winter shutdown in December, and up to 10 sick days throughout the calendar year.
If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the recruiting process, please email us at: ApplicantAccommodations@exelixis.com.
Our office is a modern space that fosters collaboration and creativity. Teams work closely together, sharing ideas and solutions in a supportive atmosphere. We provide all necessary equipment, including dual monitors and ergonomic chairs, to ensure a comfortable workspace.
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
Requires a PhD in Pharmacology or Cancer Biology, or a Bachelor's/Master's with significant relevant experience. Must have extensive hands-on experience with various oncology animal models and a deep understanding of PK/PD concepts.
Market context
In California, Senior Scientist I roles in in vivo pharmacology are typically driven by ongoing oncology and translational research needs, especially where animal model expertise and PK/PD interpretation are central. These positions are competitive because employers often look for a PhD in Pharmacology or Cancer Biology, or equivalent experience, plus extensive hands-on work with oncology animal models. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then compare how your model experience and PK/PD background align before applying.