Scientist II

Cytokinetics•South San Francisco, CA

5d•$148,500 - $173,250•Onsite

About The Position

Cytokinetics is a specialty cardiovascular biopharmaceutical company focused on developing new medicines for patients with cardiac muscle dysfunction. They are seeking a motivated Scientist I/II with both in vivo and in vitro research experience, including work with iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, primary cell systems, engineered tissues, and animal disease models. The ideal candidate will be a detail-oriented investigator contributing to compound efficacy characterization through preclinical drug development in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. The specific level of the role will depend on the candidate's experience and independence.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Biology, Physiology, Pharmacology, or a related scientific discipline (or equivalent experience).
Scientist II: generally 2–5 years of experience, including postdoctoral training.
Hands-on rodent handling and dosing experience (mouse and rat), including tissue collection.
Experience isolating primary cells from tissues and performing ex vivo tissue/organ preparations (e.g., Langendorff/perfused heart or other organ perfusions).
Hands-on proficiency in molecular and biochemical assays (Western blotting, qPCR, immunostaining/IF, ELISA, and enzyme-based assays), and the ability to independently develop, optimize, and troubleshoot cell-based or molecular assays.
Ability to design, execute, and interpret experiments, determine next steps, and clearly communicate data in reports and presentations; works effectively across disciplines.
Independent project and target ownership are required, as is a track record of scientific achievement.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology setting is preferred.
Hands-on experience with in vivo cardiovascular measures (e.g. echocardiography, blood pressure. Invasive hemodynamics)
Hands-on expertise in mammalian cell culture, with direct experience in iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, primary cardiomyocytes, or other primary cells, and with EHT casting and experimentation.

Responsibilities

Perform hands-on rodent work (mouse and rat) - handling, dosing, tissue collection, and disease model support in compliance with IACUC guidelines.
Isolate primary cells from tissues and perform ex vivo experiments (e.g., Langendorff/perfused heart, measures of contractility).
Perform molecular and biochemical assays (Western blot, qPCR, immunostaining/IF, ELISA, enzyme-based) to quantify markers of disease biology and target engagement.
Culture and run functional experiments on iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, primary cardiomyocytes, other cell types, and engineered heart tissues (EHTs) as needed.
Independently develop, optimize, and troubleshoot cell-based and molecular assays, including for early-stage or novel targets.