Scientist II/Senior Scientist, In vivo Pharmacology, Oncology

About Hexagon Bio:

Hexagon Bio leverages a genomics-based platform and understanding of natural product evolution to develop next-generation medicines for human disease, including Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs) with novel payloads. Our algorithms identify gene clusters that encode the machinery needed to produce specialized metabolites and our unique platform allows us to produce new chemical leads and novel payloads based on these findings. We use data science, genomics, synthetic biology, and automation to discover and develop potent, evolutionarily refined small molecules from fungal genomes, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in ADC therapeutics.  Our goal is to overcome limitations of current cancer treatments and impact patient outcomes.

Location: Menlo Park, CA

Job description:

As Scientist II/Senior Scientist, In Vivo Pharmacology, you will be part of a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary drug-development team leveraging the discovery of novel natural products for the next-generation of targeted therapies. You will be responsible for designing, executing and implementing experimental strategies to drive our in vivo pharmacology science forward, through various ex vivo and in vivo approaches. By collaborating with chemists, biochemists, and cell biologists, your work will guide the design and selection of drug candidates. We are seeking innovative team members inspired by our mission to work collaboratively in building the next-generation drug company. Candidates should demonstrate leadership, scientific curiosity, efficient time management, excellent organizational and communication skills, and a passion for science.

The role is expected to be a mix of laboratory work (80%) and CRO management (20%). 

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and manage in vivo experiments at external vivarium facilities to evaluate the efficacy of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).
• Drive the selection, development and characterization of preclinical tumor models, ensuring reproducibility and appropriate use of standard-of-care controls.
• Develop and execute biomarker assays on tissues using multicolor flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry to support ADC mechanism of action.
• Design and perform in vitro pharmacology experiments to complement in vivo findings.
• Analyze and synthetize complex experimental data using appropriate statistical methods, interpret results to guide decision-making processes.
• Collaborate with a diverse team of biologists, chemists and CROs to answer scientific questions and deliver quality and timely findings in support of candidate advancement.
• Effectively communicate findings and interpretation of results to multi-disciplinary teams.
• Stay abreast of preclinical models applied to ADCs.
• Comply with company health and safety policies and general laboratory practices.

Requirements:

• PhD in Cancer Biology, Immunology, Pharmacology, or related discipline with 3-5 years of industrial experience.
• Extensive knowledge of tumor biology is required.
• Must have hands-on experience with in vivo rodent models and ex vivo tissue analysis.
• Strong knowledge and expertise with multicolor flow cytometry is required.
• Experience with tissue immunohistochemistry is preferred. 
• Experience with coordinating CROs and/or external collaborators is desirable.
• Familiarity with ADCs is a plus.
• A collaborative, team-oriented approach, able to take on problems in a goal-focused fashion.
• Effective communication and ability to coordinate tasks across multiple projects as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Self-motivation, initiative and boldness to dive into a fast-paced new startup.

What We Offer:

• A flexible and dynamic work environment where you pave your own path, Hexagon cultivates employees' unique strengths at all levels and provides mobility across departments.
• “All Hands Meetings” provide an opportunity to share company and team updates. These meetings are rooted in our value of transparency. They are designed to foster a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and open communication.
• Rapid career advancement for driven performers.
• Access to scientific conferences all over the country throughout the year.
• A range of amenities, courtesy of the Menlo Park Labs business park, including shuttle, gym, rock-climbing wall, pool, sports courts, cafe, bike lockers, and free EV charging stations.
• Opportunities to engage with the Hexagon community through team-building events like our happy hours and holiday parties.

Additional Information:

The salary range is dependent on the level of Scientist that is hired (Scientist II or Senior Scientist).  The salary range for this full-time position is $140,000 - $170,00 + bonus + equity + benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across California locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Hexagon Bio is an equal opportunity employer and committed to a diverse workplace. All applicants will be considered equally without regard to race, color, ethnicity, veteran status, religion, national origin, marital status, political affiliation, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, membership in an organization, or any other non-merit factors

Note to External Recruiters: Submission of unsolicited resumes prior to an agreement set in place does not create any implied obligation.