Principal Scientist/Senior Principal Scientist, Complex In Vitro Systems, Predictive Toxicology

Genentech•Daly City, CA

22d

About The Position

We advance science so that we all have more time with the people we love. Who We Are: A member of the Roche Group, Genentech has been at the forefront of the biotechnology industry for more than 45 years, developing novel medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases. Genentech has multiple therapies on the market for cancer & other serious illnesses. Please take this opportunity to learn about Genentech where we believe that our employees are our most important asset & are dedicated to remaining a great place to work. We are seeking a motivated scientist and leader for the Lung Modeling team within the Complex in vitro Systems (CiS) Laboratory. This role will be instrumental in designing, developing, and characterizing cutting-edge complex in vitro models (CIVM) of lung systems to support the broader Development Sciences, Research, and Translational Medicine departments at Genentech. The successful candidate will apply their expertise in multicellular 3D tissue systems, biomaterials, and bioengineering to create microphysiological models of lung segments to improve predictive assessments of drug safety and efficacy in the pulmonary space. This leadership role will focus on establishing and deploying innovative, state-of-the-art lung models to support both discovery and preclinical development portfolios. This includes evaluating drug candidates for lung safety, understanding disposition, developing biomarkers, and assessing pharmacodynamic responses relevant to lung diseases. The Head of Lung Modeling will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for lung modeling within CiS, driving scientific innovation, fostering key collaborations, and mentoring junior scientists to build a high-performing team.

Requirements

Ph.D. in biology, bioengineering, biomedical engineering, pharmacology, chemical engineering, or a related field, with significant experience in in vitro systems, specifically lung modeling. Exceptional candidates with equivalent experience will be considered.
For Principal Scientist (5+ years) and for Senior Principal Scientist (9+ years) years of experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, academia, or research organizations, with a strong focus on complex in vitro lung systems.
Proven expertise in developing, qualifying, and applying 3D lung tissue models, organoids, microphysiological systems (MPS), or related platforms in a drug discovery or translational research setting.
Toxicology experience is a plus, with a focus on leveraging CIVMs to elucidate mechanisms of toxicity and predict safety.
Demonstrated scientific leadership, including leading projects, setting strategic direction, and potentially managing small teams.
Track record of significant scientific contributions through peer-reviewed publications and presentations in areas related to complex in vitro lung systems.
Experience in managerial/mentorship roles is highly desirable.
Prior strategy-focused or program management roles are a plus.
An existing external network and presence in the complex in vitro modeling space, particularly concerning lung models, is preferred.

Nice To Haves

Deep understanding of lung biology and the underlying mechanisms of lung diseases, coupled with profound knowledge of how complex in vitro systems can be applied in lung disease and healthy tissue modeling.
Hands-on expertise with cells of pulmonary origin or iPSC-derived lung cell cultures. Experience with 3D co-cultures and 3D vasculature are a plus.
Proficiency with various cellular assays and readouts relevant to lung function and toxicity; excellent light microscopy skills are a plus.
Exceptional strategic thinking with the ability to define a clear vision for lung modeling and execute effectively.
Outstanding communication and influencing skills, with a proven ability to engage deeply with both scientific and leadership audiences.
Highly collaborative spirit, professionalism, and a demonstrated ability to forge successful collaborations across diverse functions.
Excellent organizational and management skills coupled with the ability to effectively prioritize multiple complex projects.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement the strategic roadmap for lung modeling within CiS, ensuring alignment with organizational drug discovery and development objectives.
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing and motivated team of scientists who collectively design, develop, and characterize advanced lung in vitro models, such as airway and alveolar organoids, air-liquid interface 3D cultures, organ-on-chip, and other microphysiological systems, to address critical questions in lung drug discovery and development. Projects can span from modeling healthy and disease alveolar, small airway, and large airway with and without vascular or stromal components.
Provide scientific guidance, teach lab techniques, and ensure professional growth and career development for junior team members with care and commitment.
Act as a primary liaison between the CiS team and internal research teams, translational medicine, and drug discovery units at Genentech and Roche to maximize the impact of strategic lab activities across lung-focused projects.
Facilitate and manage partnerships with external collaborators, including academic institutions, consortiums, and Contract Research Organizations (CROs) to advance lung modeling capabilities.
Share your research in the form of peer-reviewed papers and presentations in cross-functional forums, internal meetings, and external conferences to communicate platform capabilities, progress, and outcomes related to lung modeling.