Principal Research Scientist, Cancer Biology

A growing biotechnology organization is seeking a highly motivated and innovative Principal Research Scientist, Cancer Biology with deep expertise in cancer biology to join a high-priority discovery program focused on elucidating novel mechanisms driving tumor biology. This laboratory-based role will leverage advanced cellular and molecular biology approaches to investigate the mechanistic foundations of a promising therapeutic target and support the advancement of small-molecule drug discovery efforts.

The successful candidate will combine strong scientific rigor, technical excellence, and critical thinking to generate meaningful biological insights that inform therapeutic strategy. Working within a collaborative, cross-functional environment, this individual will play a key role in shaping and advancing a pioneering cancer biology research program.

Location: SSF
Pay: $70 - 85/hr. DOE


Key Responsibilities:

• Independently design, execute, analyze, and troubleshoot complex in vitro studies to investigate target biology, pathway regulation, and drug mechanisms of action.
• Develop and apply cellular models utilizing gene perturbation technologies, including CRISPR, siRNA/shRNA, overexpression systems, and pharmacologic interventions.
• Utilize a broad range of molecular and cellular biology techniques to explore oncogenic signaling pathways, protein function, cellular trafficking, immune-relevant phenotypes, and synthetic lethal interactions.
• Design and optimize mechanistic assays to interrogate target function and therapeutic response.

• Generate high-quality, reproducible datasets and apply rigorous quantitative analysis to derive mechanistic insights.
• Integrate data across multiple experimental platforms to develop and test biological hypotheses.
• Maintain meticulous experimental records and ensure adherence to high scientific standards.

• Partner closely with project teams to align experimental strategies with translational and therapeutic objectives.
• Present research findings and recommendations to multidisciplinary teams and senior leadership.
• Contribute scientific expertise to program strategy and help guide the evolution of research priorities.
• Collaborate effectively with external partners, CROs, and scientific collaborators as needed.

Qualifications:

• PhD in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, or a related discipline.
• 4+ years of industry experience 
• Deep understanding of tumor biology, including cancer genomics, oncogenic signaling, cancer cell biology, synthetic lethality, and therapeutic vulnerabilities.
• Proven track record of independently driving hypothesis-based research programs with minimal supervision.
• Strong expertise in molecular biology, cellular biology, biochemistry, and quantitative experimental design.
• Extensive hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, cell viability and proliferation assays, and multiparametric flow cytometry.
• Proficiency with gene expression analysis (qRT-PCR, RNA isolation/preparation), protein characterization techniques (Western blot, ELISA, HTRF, MSD), confocal microscopy, and functional genomics approaches.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex datasets, synthesize findings, and communicate scientific conclusions effectively.

Preferred

• Experience developing mechanistic assays focused on protein function, degradation, trafficking, or immune signaling pathways.
• Familiarity with computational tools for biological data analysis, visualization, and interpretation.
• Experience managing or collaborating with CROs and external research partners.

Desired Attributes

• Passion for scientific discovery coupled with a pragmatic, results-oriented mindset.
• Intellectual curiosity and commitment to rigorous, data-driven decision-making.
• Thrives in a fast-paced, discovery-stage research environment.
• Adaptable and resilient when navigating scientific uncertainty and evolving priorities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across functions.
• Commitment to fostering a culture of accountability, inclusion, innovation, and scientific excellence.

 

#IND-SPG

Estimated Min Rate: $70.00
Estimated Max Rate: $85.00


What’s In It for You?
We welcome you to be a part of the largest and legendary global staffing companies to meet your career aspirations. Yoh’s network of client companies has been employing professionals like you for over 65 years in the U.S., UK and Canada. Join Yoh’s extensive talent community that will provide you with access to Yoh’s vast network of opportunities and gain access to this exclusive opportunity available to you. Benefit eligibility is in accordance with applicable laws and client requirements. Benefits include:

• Medical, Prescription, Dental & Vision Benefits (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
• Health Savings Account (HSA) (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
• Life & Disability Insurance (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
• MetLife Voluntary Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401K Retirement Savings Plan
• Direct Deposit & weekly epayroll
• Referral Bonus Programs
• Certification and training opportunities

Note: Any pay ranges displayed are estimations. Actual pay is determined by an applicant's experience, technical expertise, and other qualifications as listed in the job description. All qualified applicants are welcome to apply.

Yoh, a Day & Zimmermann company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Visit https://www.yoh.com/applicants-with-disabilities to contact us if you are an individual with a disability and require accommodation in the application process.

For California applicants, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act. All of the material job duties described in this posting are job duties for which a criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship potentially resulting in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment.

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