Scientist II

Cytokinetics • South San Francisco, CA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Cytokinetics is a specialty cardiovascular biopharmaceutical company, building on its over 25 years of pioneering scientific innovations in muscle biology, and advancing a pipeline of potential new medicines for patients suffering from diseases of cardiac muscle dysfunction. We are seeking a motivated, hands-on Scientist I/II with both in vivo and in vitro research experience, including work in iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes and other primary cell systems, engineered tissues, and animal disease models. The ideal candidate is a rigorous, detail-oriented investigator who thrives in a hands-on role and contributes to compound efficacy characterization through preclinical drug development within a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. The level of the role (Scientist I or Scientist II) will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, demonstrated independence, and degree of project and target ownership.

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.

Benefits

• A collaborative, science-driven environment focused on impactful muscle biology and cardiovascular research.
• Opportunities to grow scientific ownership and advance your career within drug discovery and development.
• A competitive compensation and benefits package.
• equity in the form of stock options and/or restricted stock units
• comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage
• 401k retirement benefits with employer match
• learning and wellness stipends
• paid time off

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree