This position is part of the Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery (WCNDD) at Vanderbilt University where traditional academic pursuits in basic science are extended to advance our understanding of human disease and drug targets to directly impact patient care. This position requires excellent communication skills; including presenting verbal and written reports to the project team. The highly motivated scientist will be an integral part of the drug discovery team and be willing to assist in other responsibilities.  Reporting to the Principal Investigator or project leader, the Drug Discovery works with faculty, staff, and other members of the Team.

The position calls for a motivated biological scientist to join the Molecular Pharmacology group within the WCNDD. The Pharmacology team is responsible for conducting high-throughput screening assay of small molecule modulators of GPCRs, ion channels, and kinases. This includes development of target protein cell lines and pharmacological assay to lead and support all molecular pharmacology activities. This position is a key contributor to support the Center’s goal of developing therapeutics, specifically for central nervous system disorders. Successful candidates will interface with members among all areas of the WCNDD, including those in molecular pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, and in vivo rodent pharmacology.  

Duties and Responsibilities

We are all different, yet we all use our unique contributions to serve patients. The Molecular Pharmacology Drug Discovery Scientist I we seek is a person with these qualifications. 

Oversee/facilitate the design, execution, analysis, and reporting of small molecule screening in in vitro pharmacological assay. Conduct high-throughput cell-based screening assays in support of characterizing GPCR, ion-channel, kinase targeted small molecule drugs.  Operate multi forms of liquid handling equipment, and automation units. Develop stable cell lines specific to new target proteins. Perform molecular biology experiments involving preparation and analysis of DNA/RNA and Protein. Train research associates in pharmacological assay, equipment operation/maintenance, and data analysis.  Write up pharmacological assay protocols. Analyze data to determine the efficacy and potency of the compounds using data analysis software.  Maintains accurate databases and experimental notebooks of results.

Qualifications

Ph.D. degree in pharmacology, biochemistry, biology, or a related field with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience within a pharmaceutical company, biotechnology company, or academic drug discovery organization; alternatively, for M.S. degrees, a minimum of 10 years relevant experience in a similar position is required.  A minimum 5 years’ experience in mammalian cell culture is necessary. Hands-on experience of plasmid preparation, transfection, and Western Blotting.  Excellent oral and written communication skills, excellent data analysis capabilities, and proficiency with curve fitting and graphing programs are essential. Strong organizational, inter-personal/communication, and analytical skills with the ability to manage several responsibilities simultaneously in a fast-paced, dynamic, multi-disciplinary, matrixed environment. Ability to work independently (self-motivated) with low supervision, flexible hours, and on repetitive tasks with a shared respect for the long term goals and mission of the organization.