Scientist - Neurobiology

Scientist - Neurobiology

Neurocentria is seeking a motivated and accomplished Neurobiologist experienced with primary neuronal cultures and live imaging (synapse imaging a plus).  In this position, you will be responsible for establishing our protocols/platforms, designing and executing in vitro experiments, and analyzing, interpreting, and reporting results, related to drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases.

Company Summary:

Neurocentria is a clinical stage San Francisco area-based pharmaceutical company striving to develop treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease. Currently, we have positive Phase II data demonstrating strong efficacy and safety for treating Alzheimer’s Disease with our primary candidate compound, and we are set to launch Phase III clinical trials.

While we are quickly moving forward with late-stage clinical trials on this first-generation compound, we wish to develop the next generation of products and expand our pipeline for treating neurodegenerative disease. Our original candidate drug targets synapse loss and dysfunction, hallmarks of neurodegenerative disease. This compound was developed with our unique platform that allows us to visualize the function and plasticity of living synapse. Our approach offers a breakthrough opportunity to identify novel targets for augmenting synapse density/plasticity and function.

We are looking for an exceptional Neurobiologist to join our motivated team. This Scientist will work closely with the Director of Scientific Operations and the Chief Scientific Officer to design and execute in vitro drug discovery experiments for publication and for reporting to regulatory agencies. The startup nature of Neurocentria also provides multiple growth opportunities into other areas of the company. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Differentiate both human iPSCs and non-iPSCs into neuronal cell types
• Screen lead compounds in living neuronal culture models by live-cell microscopy
• usingImmunofluorescent dyes and genetically encoded indicators
• Use a living-synapse imaging system to study drug-induced structural and functional changes of synapses
• Develop and execute in vitro experiments to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying synapse function/plasticity, related to brain neurodegeneration
• Establish collaborations with external groups (academic and CROs) to conduct preclinical experiments to support clinical trials
• Write manuscripts for publication and scientific study reports for regulatory submission
• Participate in the design and execution of human bioanalytical biomarker studies

What we are looking for:

• PhD in Neuroscience + at least 2 years of experience in either industry or academic postdoc
• Knowledge and expertise in the fields of neurobiology and stem cell biology
• Proficient in Primary neuronal culture and Human iPS neuronal differentiation
• Expertise in Immunofluorescent dye, chemical indicator and genetically encoded indicator-based imaging
• Experience with time-lapse live cell imaging required (synapse imaging a plus)
• Familiar with Plasmid construction, extraction and transfection
• Working knowledge of biochemistry and molecular biology
• Ability to collect, analyze, and communicate complex scientific data both verbally and in writing
• Strong Data analysis skill
• Strong desire to work in small  a start-up environment
• Sense of urgency, initiative, ethics/integrity and innovation is required.
• Proactive self starter, that can navigate through ambiguity with mature emotional intelligence

Location:

• This position is full-time with an immediate start date.  Office is in Walnut Creek, CA and laboratory is in Fremont, CA. Primary location for this position will be in Fremont; however, initially the position will be in Walnut Creek.

What we offer:

• A competitive compensation package (commensurate on experience and qualifications)
• Comprehensive health/insurance plans including medical, dental vision and life
• Competitive 401(k) investment options with corporate matching
• Paid Time Off
• Snacks and weekly team lunches

To apply:

Please submit your CV containing a list of clinical and regulatory experience and list of scientific publications.  You can visit our website at www.neurocentria.com to learn more.