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Scientist/Scientist II

Palo Alto, California, United States

About Bitterroot Bio

Bitterroot Bio, Inc. is a series A biotech company focusing on cardio-immunology, investigating the interplay between the immune system and cardiovascular health.  By understanding the intricate mechanisms by which these cells contribute to disease, we are developing innovative immunotherapies that target the root causes of cardiovascular disease rather than just treating its symptoms.

For us to be successful we are single-minded on hiring talented people who are eager to engage, are naturally curious, who want to be part of providing a new hope to those suffering from cardiovascular diseases. We are looking at transforming the way these diseases are treated.  You have an opportunity to put your hand on and shape a company as it moves into phase 2, and its next round of funding.

About You

We are seeking an outstanding and highly driven scientist to work with our Bitterroot team in both our Palto Alto and Massachusetts offices. This role will require on-site presence in Palo Alto. The position holds significant importance in supporting the Bitterroot team and is an excellent fit for individuals who are talented, highly motivated, and results-oriented, thriving in a fast-paced, innovative startup atmosphere.

Responsibilities:

Reporting to the Director, Immunology & Pharmacology, the candidate will:

  • Work within a multidisciplinary team creating novel therapies that suppress immunological and/or inflammatory drivers of cardiovascular disease.
  • Design and execute immune cell-based in vitro functional assays for the validation of potential drug targets and the pharmacological screening of therapeutic candidates.
  • Explore relevant immunno-biology using suitable in vitro cell based systems to investigate mode of action; translate these proof-of-concept assays into high-quality, streamlined protocols and facilitate biomarker discovery supporting ongoing pipeline projects.
  • Thinking creatively, propose and implement innovative approaches to expand Bitterroot’s pipeline and intellectual property.
  • Participate in troubleshooting of methods with corporate partners and CROs.
  • Analyze data and maintain clear laboratory records, protocols, summaries, and reports.
  • Have outstanding communication skills (oral and written) and deliver presentations to diverse audiences, including stakeholders and peers, effectively translating complex research into actionable insights.

 As our ideal candidate, you have:

  • A PhD in immunology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline with 2+ years’ post-doctoral/industry experience OR MS with 5+ years’ industry experience OR BS with 8+ years industry.
  • Hands-on proficiency in primary immune cell isolation and culture is required.
  • Experience with in vitro functional assays to characterize primary immune cells including, but not limited to, cytotoxicity assays, cytokine/chemokine measurements, phenotypic characterization, and proliferation assessment is required.
  • Experience in multi-parameter flow cytometry and data analysis is required.
  • Experience with macrophage biology is highly desirable.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills are essential in our collaborative research environment.
  • Adapts to complex and rapidly changing research environments, effectively managing multiple projects with shifting priorities and constraints.
  • Works independently with full responsibility for planning and executing complex projects.
  • Enjoy working as a member of a fast-paced multidisciplinary team in an entrepreneurial environment.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
  • To perform this duty the employee must have the ability to sit or stand at and operate a computer terminal and walk or travel within the facility. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.
  • This position is based in Palo Alto, CA.

Beyond our Science

We are driven by a passion for impact and bold ideas that create new opportunities. With intellectual curiosity and determination, we advance transformative science and medicines that matter. Committed to respecting people, we strive to positively impact our patients and the Bitterroot community. We value authenticity, always following the data and demanding the truth to guide our actions.

We understand the power of collaboration, curiosity and pushing boundaries. We welcome challenging thoughts and imagination to develop innovative solutions, in this we have a single-minded determination to achieve together. We want to change the paradigm on how cardiovascular disease is addressed and treated. 

Bitterroot Bio provides a competitive compensation package, including a base salary, bonus, stock options, a 401(k) with company match, unlimited paid time off, cellphone reimbursement, and more!

Recruitment Process

The anticipated salary range for candidates who will work in Palo Alto, CA is $120,000-$145,000. The final salary offered to a successful candidate will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to the type and length of experience within the job, type, and length of experience within the industry, education, etc.

Bitterroot Bio is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. While our ranges are posted, the exact base pay offered for this role will depend on various factors, including but not limited to the successful candidate's qualifications, skills, experience, location or comparison to other employees already in similar roles. In addition to base salary, our positions are eligible for variable compensation through one of our incentive plans as well as equity compensation based on role and level. 

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