Senior Principal Scientist - Translational Muscle Biology

UCB • Cambridge, MA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a Senior Principal Scientist to join the US Neuromuscular group based in Cambridge, MA and help drive translational biology drug discovery efforts with an emphasis on muscle biology. This is an opportunity for a scientific leader to advance portfolio projects and lead from the bench—exploring new biology and directly shaping the design, development, and execution of in vitro and in vivo models as well as cellular and biochemical assays for early drug discovery across multiple therapeutic programs and target discovery efforts. The candidate will bring hands-on scientific leadership to a matrixed team focused on identifying and building knowledge across pathobiological pathways and patient populations, including neuromuscular diseases related to nucleotide repeat expansions, genetic mutations, muscle atrophy, mitochondrial/lysosomal dysfunction, or inflammation.

Requirements

• PhD with 15+ years or MS Degree with 20+ years in drug discovery, biology, cellular biology, bioengineering or related field.
• Proven ability to lead projects, supervise and mentor scientists
• Deep knowledge in muscle biology and translational assays.
• Strong assay development and drug discovery knowledge.
• Strong track record of publishing in high-impact journals and presenting at scientific conferences.
• Deep experience with mammalian cell culture, molecular and biochemical assays.
• Strong attention to detail, and enthusiasm for learning.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge in mitochondrial biology is a plus

Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor junior scientists, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.
• Oversee multiple projects, ensuring timely delivery of milestones and effective resource allocation.
• Identify and implement new technologies and methodologies to advance muscle cell biology and translational research.
• Design, characterize and validate primary cell or stem cell/3D models for therapeutic programs.
• Lead the design of cell-based assays to assess therapeutic candidates or validate new gene-editing targets.
• Maintain a minimum 30% hands-on laboratory contribution to support assay execution, model development, and experimental troubleshooting across neuromuscular translational biology programs.
• Drive the design and execution of in vivo and in vitro assays to enhance understanding of neuromuscular disease biology.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate translational biology insights into therapeutic programs or new target proposals.
• Document, analyze, and present data to internal teams.

Benefits

• We have a caring, supportive culture where everyone feels included, respected, and has equal opportunities to do their best work.
• Working for us, you will discover a place where you can grow, and have the freedom to carve your own career path to achieve your full potential.

What This Job Offers

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