Senior Scientist, Pharmacology

Cartography Biosciences • South San Francisco, CA

2d

About The Position

Cartography Biosciences is seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist to join our Pharmacology team and play a pivotal role in the in vitro development and characterization of novel T cell engagers across our pipeline. This is a balanced role combining hands-on laboratory execution with scientific oversight, including assay development, CRO oversight, and direct management of 2-3 scientists. This is an ideal position for a scientist ready to operate at the bench and at the program level simultaneously.

The successful candidate will drive in vitro pharmacology end-to-end, from hit screening through IND-enabling studies. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in T cell biology, in vitro assay development, and MoA studies, and thrives in a highly collaborative, fast-paced environment that interfaces across antibody engineering, computational, and discovery teams. With demonstrated impact, this role offers the opportunity to grow into leading a pipeline program.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Immunology, Cancer Biology, Pharmacology or related field with 2+ years of relevant industry or postdoctoral experience; or Master's/Bachelor's with 10–12+ years' experience
• Deep expertise in T cell biology and in vitro functional assays
• Hands-on experience with multi-parameter flow cytometry, MSD, and live-cell imaging platforms (CellCyte/Incucyte)
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional environment
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with T cell engagers is strongly preferred
• Prior experience managing or mentoring junior scientists strongly preferred
• Experience contributing to a program through IND filing is a plus

Responsibilities

• Lead functional characterization of T cell engagers from hit screening through IND enabling studies, including in vitro cytotoxicity, T cell activation, cytokine profiling and secondary assays (MSD, multi-color flow cytometry, FlowJo, CellCyte/Incucyte)
• Design and develop novel in vitro assays to address mechanistic questions and support program progression
• Design, execute and interpret preclinical experiments aligned with program goals and timelines
• Directly manage, mentor, and support the development of 2-3 scientists while fostering a rigorous and collaborative team culture
• Oversee studies and operations performed at CROs, including protocol development and data review, as needed
• Work collaboratively and efficiently in cross functional team environment to advance drug candidates through the development pipeline as a project leader for pharmacology
• Translate experimental data into actionable insights and clearly communicate findings and recommendations in program and pipeline meetings
• Actively participate in prioritizing key milestones and developing appropriate timelines

What This Job Offers

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