Principal Scientist, ADCs Discovery Biology, Oncology Thematic Research Center

Bristol Myers SquibbCambridge, MA
$156,180 - $189,252Onsite

About The Position

The Oncology Thematic Research Center at BMS is one of the fundamental research and early development engines delivering oncology therapeutics to patients. The scientists at this state-of-the-art research and development site in Cambridge focus on novel tumor intrinsic targets and pathways for tumors that are refractory to current Immuno-Oncology and Oncology therapies and implement our discovery platforms across all of our therapeutic areas of focus. We are a fully integrated drug discovery through translational and early clinical development organization which exploits state-of-the-art in vitro, in vivo and ex-vivo models of cancer biology to identify and validate targets. We partner closely with colleagues in Translational Medicine, Informatics and Predictive Sciences and Early Clinical Development to generate biomarker and patient enrichment hypotheses to enable efficient decision making in early clinical trials. We are optimally positioned to complement the world-class translational expertise, biology and leading academic research centers in the area. We are seeking a creative and driven scientist to join our expanding ADC Discovery team and play an important role in advancing next-generation oncology therapeutics. As a Principal Scientist, you will independently lead antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) drug discovery programs from target concept to IND filing, leveraging proprietary technologies and collaborating with top experts in the field. The qualified candidate should be a highly motivated, independent, and collaborative scientist capable of leading cross-functional teams and executing rigorous biology programs across a highly matrixed organization. Our team thrives on creativity, rigorous science, and a shared commitment to transforming cancer care.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree and 8+ years of academic and / or industry experience
  • Master’s Degree and 6+ years of academic and / or industry experience
  • Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in the Life Sciences and 4+ years of academic and / or industry experience

Nice To Haves

  • Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in the Life Sciences with 4+ years of industry experience in oncology drug discovery
  • Hands-on experience in the design, development, and optimization of high-throughput cell-based assays for antibody screening and ADC activity
  • Experience profiling and developing complex biologics (e.g., bispecifics, biparatopics, masked antibodies)
  • Experience with linker-payload design and evaluation, including both cytotoxic and targeted payload classes
  • Experience contributing to an IND filing
  • Developing leadership skills with demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and mentor a team of lab-based in vitro biologists
  • Ability to efficiently manage and prioritize multiple projects, coordinating in-house research with collaborative work
  • Ability to summarize and interpret complex scientific data in a clear, concise, and accurate manner
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with peers, supervisors, and governance committees
  • Strong problem-solving skills and sound understanding of complex scientific principles
  • Demonstrated experience leveraging AI and data-driven tools to support scientific decision-making and program planning

Responsibilities

  • Lead highly matrixed ADC discovery teams from target concept to IND and lead/mentor a biology team supporting in vitro experimentation
  • Leverage current and new techniques for function-based identification and selection of antibody-drug-conjugate (ADC) lead drug candidates
  • Apply extensive technical knowledge to address ADC mechanisms of action, including evaluating novel payload classes and linker strategies
  • Collaborate with functional area leads (e.g., pharmacology, DMPK, bioinformatics, informatics and predictive science) to drive programs forward, including helping to define program priorities and risks
  • Work with bioinformaticians and translational research scientists to design and execute studies supporting patient stratification and identification of appropriate target engagement PD markers
  • Present complex scientific concepts to a range of audiences including governance committees and full team project meetings
  • Communicate findings and progress clearly and effectively via email, written reports, and scientific presentations
  • Mentor and develop junior scientists within the team, fostering a collaborative and scientifically rigorous environment

Benefits

  • Medical, pharmacy, dental, and vision care.
  • Programs such as BMS Well-Being Account, BMS Living Life Better, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).
  • 401(k) plan, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, accident insurance, supplemental health insurance, business travel protection, personal liability protection, identity theft benefit, legal support, and survivor support.
  • Paid Time Off
  • flexible time off (unlimited, with manager approval, 11 paid national holidays (not applicable to employees in Phoenix, AZ, Puerto Rico or Rayzebio employees))
  • 160 hours annual paid vacation for new hires with manager approval, 11 national holidays, and 3 optional holidays
  • unlimited paid sick time, up to 2 paid volunteer days per year, summer hours flexibility, leaves of absence for medical, personal, parental, caregiver, bereavement, and military needs and an annual Global Shutdown between Christmas and New Years Day.

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What This Job Offers

Job Type

Full-time

Career Level

Principal

Education Level

Ph.D. or professional degree

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