Position Summary:   

The Scientist, Biology focuses on the design, development, and execution of cellular, immunological and/or other biological/pharmacological assays that are critical for the company to meet its goals.  In this position, you will participate in both internal or contract drug discovery and biological research, addressing complex scientific questions in a fluid team environment.  Efficient and effective execution is critical.    

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Hands-on laboratory researcher focused in drug discovery  
• Effectively carry out models and assays in the areas of biochemistry, cell biology, immunology, molecular biology, and/or pharmacology  
• Devise, design and execute experimental protocols using standard in-house methods, methods from partner companies or from the literature  
• Define the necessary reagents and supplies to conduct the desired assay; ensure that the necessary equipment is available to conduct the assay.    
• Assay execution, data analysis and effective oral and written communication of results including interpretation of findings and suggested next steps – both internally and to clients  
• Strong emphasis on high-quality documentation and data integrity (clear, timely recordkeeping) 
• Commitment to laboratory safety, quality practices, and effective cross-functional collaboration in a fast-paced drug discovery environment 

Additional Responsibilities:  

• Report writing and preparation of slide decks  

Other Duties: 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

Required Education and Experience: 

• B.S in relevant scientific field with 5+ years relevant experience in drug discovery 

Preferred Education and Experience: 

• M.S. in relevant scientific field with 2+ years relevant experience in drug discovery    

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Behaviors:  

• Proficiency in the design and execution of assays including several of the following:  
• Plate based assays/medium to high throughput screening 
• Mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays using cells lines and primary human immune cells 
• Molecular biology, DNA/RNA isolations, qRT-PCR 
• ELISA, Western blots, multiplex analysis  
• Complex multi-parametric flow cytometry assays  
• Biomarker assay development and execution for clinical studies  
• Desired (not required): Bioinformatics data analysis and interpretation (e.g., gene expression, proteomics, pathway analysis) 
• Ability to organize time and work independently  
• Critical thinking and data interpretation skills  
• Ability to work in a team environment with cross functional teams 
• Multitasking capabilities and interest in working in an environment with quickly changing responsibilities  
• Excellent oral and written communication skills  
• Ability to handle confidential material 

Work Conditions: 

• This position requires a significant amount of time in a laboratory environment, wearing the appropriate level of Personal Protective Equipment 
• The remaining time will be spent at a computer or in meetings in a relaxed office environment  
• Limited travel to client locations and/or parent company location may be required. 

Physical Demands: 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands and fingers, handle, feel or operate objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms.  

The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; and smell.  

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.  

The annual base salary range for this opportunity in the U.S. is $60,000 - $85,000. The base salary range reflects the projected base salary range for new hire, full-time employees in the U.S. Individual pay is determined by a number of factors, including but not limited to skillset, experience, and relevant education, certifications, or training. In addition to base salary, this position may be eligible for an annual bonus and equity. Aclaris offers a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees. Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in Aclaris’ sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at Aclaris’ sole discretion, consistent with the law.