Pliant Therapeutics is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel therapies for the treatment of fibrosis. Pliant seeks to develop targeted treatments to slow or halt the progression of multiple life-threatening fibrotic diseases. The company’s lead product candidate, PLN-74809, is designed to be a selective inhibitor of αvβ1 and αvβ6 integrins, which play key roles in multiple fibrotic pathways. PLN-74809 hasreceived Orphan Drug Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in both idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), and is currently in Phase 2 testing for IPF. Pliant’s second product candidate, PLN-1474, is designed to be an oral, small molecule selective inhibitor of αvβ1,targeting late-stage liver fibrosis and is partnered with Novartis.

Position Overview

Pliant Therapeutics is seeking an enthusiastic Senior Research Associate to join our department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK). In this rewarding, dynamic environment the successful candidate will be responsible for conducting in vitro assays including plasma protein binding, hepatocyte stability, CYP inhibition and related experiments to characterize the ADME properties of novel chemical entities. In addition, significant opportunity exists to directly support discovery project teams and represent DMPK in a highly impactful and visible role.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct in vitro ADME assays to support discovery/development project teams
• Collect, analyze, summarize, and upload to internal databases and report high quality data in a timely manner
• Effectively communicate and collaborate with multiple team members across disciplines
• Participate in project and DMPK meetings

Experience

• Hands-on laboratory experience with in vitro DMPK assays (plasma protein binding, metabolic stability, hepatocyte incubations, and related assays)
• Experience with small molecule LC-MS/MS bioanalysis; sample processing and preparation
• Solid understanding of key ADME/PK concepts and principles
• Ability to troubleshoot in vitro assays and small molecule bioanalysis
• Excellent interpersonal skills and team spirit
• DMPK representation in project team environment

Education

• Bachelor’s degree (B.S./B.A.) or equivalent in a scientifically related discipline