Research Scientist - Oncology Research

LeonaBio, Inc. • Bothell, WA

3d • $110,000 - $130,000 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to support and execute hands-on oncology research within our preclinical research team. This role will focus on designing and executing laboratory studies that advance our understanding of tumor biology and drug mechanisms of action. The successful candidate will significantly contribute to in vitro and ex vivo research efforts, support assay development and optimization, generate high-quality experimental data, and help translate findings into clear scientific insights that support oncology drug development programs. The ideal candidate is a technically strong and scientifically curious bench scientist with experience in oncology, cancer biology, cell signaling, pharmacology, or related fields. This individual should be comfortable independently executing experiments, troubleshooting assays, analyzing data, and contributing to scientific discussions in a collaborative biotech environment.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or related field with 2+ years of industry experience; or M.S. with significant relevant industry experience
• Relevant hands-on laboratory experience in oncology research, cancer biology, or related field
• Strong hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture required; experience with cancer cell lines strongly preferred
• Proven ability to independently design, execute, and interpret experiments
• Working knowledge of tumor biology, cell signaling pathways, and mechanisms of drug response
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced research environment
• Excellent communication skills with documented ability to effectively communicate to a broad range of audiences

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting small-molecule drug discovery or preclinical drug development programs.
• Experience in breast cancer research, immune-oncology, or tumor microenvironment biology.
• Familiarity with co-culture systems, immune assays, or cytokine profiling
• Experience studying mechanisms of resistance and interrogating cell signaling pathways
• Experience coordinating with external vendors, collaborators, or CROs.

Responsibilities

• Execute in vitro and ex vivo studies to support oncology research and drug development programs.
• Support the design, implementation, optimization, and troubleshooting of experiments and assays evaluating therapeutic activity across cancer models to ensure high-quality reproducible data generation.
• Perform cell-based, molecular, and biochemical assays, including cell viability assays, signaling and functional assays, Western blot, qPCR, ELISA, immunofluorescence, and sample preparation.
• Maintain and culture mammalian cell lines using strong aseptic technique and consistent laboratory practices; experience with cancer cell lines strongly preferred.
• Collect, analyze, interpret, and summarize experimental data using appropriate scientific software tools, while maintaining accurate and timely electronic lab notebook records.
• Generate and maintain SOPs for laboratory workflows, assay procedures, and data documentation to support reproducibility and consistent execution across studies
• Conduct deep-dive literature reviews on assigned oncology research topics and present concise summaries of key findings to the research team
• Communicate experimental progress, technical issues, and data summaries to project team members.
• Support laboratory operations and collaboration, including reagent management, sample tracking, equipment maintenance, and general lab readiness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior