Brief Description of SyntheX

SyntheX is focused on discovering therapeutics that act as modulators of intracellular protein interactions. We have built ToRPPIDO to allow us to easily discover compounds that can disrupt specific protein-protein interactions (PPIs) within cells. With ToRNeDO we achieve the inverse, we discover compounds that bring two proteins, an E3 ubiquitin ligase of our choice and a neosubstrate of interest, together to achieve targeted protein degradation. Both ToRPPIDO and ToRNeDO rely on the concept of strong and robust negative selection – the ability to select against a default event – either a PPI taking place that is to be disrupted, or the presence of a neosubstrate to be degraded. We are currently focusing on oncology and have a pre-clinical program as well as several discovery programs.

We are a fast growing startup located in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco. Additional information can be found on www.synthexlabs.com.  Submit CV and cover letter to info@synthexlabs.com.

Job Summary

SyntheX is looking for a talented, enthusiastic, and highly motivated molecular and cellular biologist with broad expertise in oncology to contribute to preclinical research and drug discovery. The tasks for this position include the engineering and construction of cancer and primary cell lines in order to validate the efficacy and mechanism of action of new cancer therapeutics.

Requirements

• Ph.D., Cell and/or Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology or closely related field with expertise in mammalian cell biology/genomics
• 5+ years of lab experience in demanding, analytical work environment is preferred but not a prerequisite
• 2+ years of biotech start-up or industry experience is highly valued, but not a prerequisite
• Background in clinical oncology research is a plus but not a prerequisite

Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated expertise in oncology and/or immunology research
• Experience in cancer genome data mining through use of desktop tools/interfaces and public databases (e.g., CBIO, TCGA, CCLE, Genepattern, etc.) is desirable
• Strong understanding of oncology and immunology molecular mechanisms
• Extensive experience with in vitro and in vivo preclinical model systems of cancer and/or immune cell function is a plus
• Proficiency in cell and molecular biology techniques
• Drug screening using HTS methods
• Hands on experience with a wide range of cellular biology and immunology assays including: cell culture techniques, cloning, siRNA/shRNA knockdown, CRISPR-mediated genome editing, transfection, lentivirus generation and transduction, cell viability assays, western blotting, IPs, ELISAs, flow cytometry, and microscopy.
• Experience in utilizing software such as Graph Pad, Flowjo, Microsoft office, etc., for data analysis
• Experience with microscopy is preferred
• Adhering to good documentation and lab note keeping standards
• Strong preference will be given to candidates with functional immune cell assay development experience
• A passion for science!

Responsibilities

• As a key team member, the candidate will be involved in designing, optimizing, establishing and executing a wide-range of biochemical and cell-based assays to support our preclinical research programs in oncology
• Thinking critically and creatively to generate and execute ideas to positively impact project goals
• Independently select appropriate methods and techniques in performing experiments
• Recommend alternatives, research new methods and techniques and proactively seeks out potential solutions to problems
• Independently write technical reports and technical presentations within the area of expertise
• Provide regular project updates in team meetings
• Work independently and effectively on multiple programs in a dynamic environment
• Train and manage research assistants focused on protein purification and enzymology
• Demonstrate strong motivation, attention to detail, independent thinking, and the ability to fully integrate into a high achieving team environment
• Possess strong scientific and laboratory skills with a keen eye for detail and a passion for science, innovation and learning

Development Opportunities

This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of growing a company. It offers significant exposure to new scientific research and development. A successful candidate will have the opportunity for career progression and professional growth as the company grows. It is an opportunity to work with a small, dedicated, and diverse professional team working towards the goal of expanding the drug discovery toolkit and helping advance therapies to patients.