Scientist, Translational Biology
Palo Alto, CA
Description

   

COMPANY BACKGROUND

GondolaBio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing next-generation therapeutics for genetic diseases. Originally launched as BridgeBioX, a subsidiary of BridgeBio, GondolaBio secured $300M in private financing from external investors in 2024 and became an independent company within the BridgeBio ecosystem. The company aims to leverage cutting-edge biological research to create breakthrough medicines addressing high unmet needs across multiple therapeutic areas, including neurology, pulmonology, cardiology, nephrology, and endocrinology. Located on the Stanford Life Sciences campus, GondolaBio fosters a unique hybrid environment where top scientists from around the world collaborate with senior leadership and advisors, blending industry expertise with academic innovation. 

To learn more, visit us at gondolabio.com


Who You Are

Are you a scientifically rigorous, recently graduated PhD looking to make an immediate impact on novel therapeutics development? Gondola Bio is seeking an exceptional scientist with strong technical skills and intellectual curiosity to join our translational biology team. In this role, you'll contribute to the early clinical development of innovative therapeutics while working alongside experienced scientists who have successfully brought multiple drugs from lab to FDA approval.

We're looking for someone who combines technical excellence with an entrepreneurial mindset—someone who questions data thoroughly while remaining open to new evidence. You should communicate clearly, take ownership of your work, and understand when scientific perfection is needed versus when pragmatic progress is required. In our fast-paced biotech environment, you'll have immediate opportunities to design experiments, develop assays, and collaborate with CROs as we work toward getting effective treatments to patients.

Requirements

  

Ex Vivo & In Vivo Translational Studies:

  • Design and execute novel ex vivo and in vivo translational studies to evaluate small molecule inhibitor pharmacology, target engagement, and efficacy
  • Develop cell-based assays based on literature precedent, adapting established methods to address specific scientific      questions
  • Contribute to defining pharmacodynamic biomarker strategies, dosing regimens, and readouts
  • Execute studies from concept to completion with appropriate guidance

Translational Assay Development:

  • Establish enzyme inhibition assays in physiologically relevant systems
  • Implement cell-based and tissue-based assays to measure target engagement and functional outcomes
  • Contribute innovative approaches to measure compound efficacy in disease-relevant contexts
  • Collaborate with medicinal chemistry and DMPK teams to establish structure-activity relationships

Sample Management & Analysis:

  • Perform biological sample collection, processing, and analysis following established workflows
  • Implement quality control practices ensuring data reliability and reproducibility
  • Execute bioanalytical assays (e.g., enzyme activity assays, biochemical assays, cellular imaging, tissue analysis)
  • Analyze datasets across multiple platforms to generate insights about compound efficacy

CRO Coordination:

  • Support identification and management of CRO partnerships for specialized studies
  • Help develop study protocols and success criteria for external work
  • Serve as scientific liaison between internal teams and CROs
  • Evaluate external data and integrate findings into development strategy

Cross-functional Collaboration:

  • Work closely with medicinal chemistry, DMPK, research, clinical, and regulatory teams
  • Present data and findings to project teams and senior leadership
  • Provide scientific insights to support compound selection and development
  • Engage in key project discussions and milestone reviews

Qualifications:


Education & Experience:

  • PhD in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology or related field from a top-tier research institution
  • Strong publication record demonstrating scientific excellence
  • Research experience in developing and executing ex vivo and/or in vivo studies
  • Experience with designing and optimizing cell-based and biochemical assays
  • Demonstrated initiative and leadership within academic research projects

Technical Skills:

  • Exceptional bench skills with expertise in biochemical  and cell-based assay development
  • Strong understanding of enzyme activity measurement techniques
  • Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation
  • Experience with relevant disease models is desirable but not required

Personal Attributes:

  • Self-motivated with ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong problem-solving skills with attention to detail
  • Excellent communication skills with ability to present complex scientific concepts clearly
  • Adaptable mindset with ability to pivot quickly as priorities evolve
  • Collaborative approach with demonstrated ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams

This position offers exceptional career growth potential for a talented scientist ready to transition from academic excellence to biotech impact. You'll have the opportunity to learn from industry veterans while making significant contributions to our translational biology program from day one.



 

What We Offer

  • Patient Days, where we are fortunate to hear directly from individuals living with the conditions we are seeking to impact throughout the year and learn how we can improve our efforts
  • A culture inspired by our values:  put patients first, think independently, be radically transparent, every minute counts, and let the science speak
  • An unyielding commitment to always putting patients first. Learn more about how we do this here
  • A de-centralized model that enables our program teams to focus on advancing science and helping patients. Our affiliate structure is designed to eliminate bureaucracy and      put decision-making power in the hands of those closest to the science
  • A place where you own the vision – both for your program and your own career path
  • A collaborative, fast-paced, data-driven environment where we inspire ourselves and each other to      always perform at the top of our game
  • Access to learning and development resources to help you get in the best professional shape of  your life
  • Robust and market-competitive      compensation & benefits package (Base, Performance Bonus, Equity,  health, welfare & retirement programs)
  • Flexible PTO
  • Rapid career advancement for strong performers
  • Potential ability to work on  multiple BridgeBio Pharma programs across multiple therapeutic areas over      time 
  • Partnerships with leading institutions
  • Commitment to Diversity, Equity  & Inclusion

At GondolaBio, we strive to provide a market-competitive total rewards package, including base pay, an annual performance bonus, company equity, and generous health benefits. Below is the anticipated salary range for candidates for this role who will work in California. The final salary offered to a successful candidate will depend 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, educational background, location of residence and performance during the interview process. GondolaBio is a multi-state employer, and this salary range may not reflect positions based in other states.