The Opportunity:
We are looking for a talented Senior Scientist to join the Biochemical and Cellular Pharmacology Department at Genentech. The successful candidate will be part of a dynamic and highly motivated team driving the characterization of large molecule drug candidates that are being developed for various diseases in multiple therapeutic areas.
Responsibilities:
You will lead the development, optimization, and execution of innovative functional pharmacology assays utilizing complex induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) derived cellular and engineered organoid/tissue models to support our discovery programs. In this role, you will drive the selection and advancement of lead candidates across multiple disease indications through rigorous in vitro pharmacological characterization.
This position requires seamless collaboration with multidisciplinary teams spanning Discovery Research, Antibody Engineering, Protein Sciences, Structural Biology, Pharmacokinetics, metabolism (MDDU) and Safety Assessment. You will serve as the primary technical expert and strategic advocate for Cellular Pharmacology on project teams, contributing both at the bench and at leadership levels to shape program direction and drive decision-making. As a strong team player with exceptional interpersonal skills, you will foster collaborative relationships across all stakeholders while maintaining scientific independence and attention to detail. Working closely with automation and bioinformatics specialists, you will design and implement robust, high-throughput sample preparation and data analysis workflows that accelerate discovery timelines. You will have significant opportunity to architect complex screening cascades, conduct comprehensive data analyses, and present findings to project teams and senior leadership. Additional responsibilities include oversight and management of third-party vendors and CRO partnerships to ensure quality execution of outsourced studies and timely delivery of critical data packages.
Who You Are:
Ph.D. in molecular and cellular biology, ophthalmology, neuroscience or a related field.
Minimum of three years postdoctoral/pharma experience with a strong record of high-profile publications.
This position requires prior experience with ophthalmology/neuroscience therapeutics in drug discovery.
Hands-on experience with iPSCs. Differentiation of iPSCs to various cell types for the aim of disease modeling and drug discovery. Demonstrate experience with CRISPR gene editing in iPSCs.
Ability to adopt and leverage rapidly advancing, new technologies to promote strategic aims.
Collaborative scientist who thrives as a key team player, bringing exceptional interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work seamlessly across cross-functional project teams while maintaining independence and driving scientific and technical excellence.
Focus on quantitative methods to drive results and demonstrate resilience and persistence in their experimental approach.
Preferred:
Experience with in vitro drug screening and functional assays
Hands on working knowledge of ophthalmology/neuroscience therapeutics discovery and in vitro pharmacology.
Experience with iPSC differentiated cell models for in vitro pharmacology preferably ophthalmology/neuroscience cell models.
Experience with automated or semi-automated instrumentation and AI/ML applications would be advantageous.
Previous pharmaceutical/biotech experience in relevant models.
Relocation benefits are available for this posting.
The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California is $124,300 to $230,900. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.
Benefits
Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.
If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.
Skills Required
- Ph.D. in molecular and cellular biology, ophthalmology, neuroscience, or a related field.
- Minimum of three years postdoctoral or pharmaceutical industry experience with a strong record of high-profile publications.
- Prior experience with ophthalmology or neuroscience therapeutics in drug discovery.
- Hands-on experience with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and differentiation to various cell types for disease modeling and drug discovery.
- Demonstrated experience with CRISPR gene editing in iPSCs.
- Ability to adopt and leverage rapidly advancing new technologies.
- Proven collaborative abilities to work across cross-functional teams while maintaining scientific independence.
- Strong focus on quantitative methods and resilient, persistent experimental approach.
- Experience with in vitro drug screening and functional assays.
- Hands-on working knowledge of ophthalmology/neuroscience therapeutics discovery and in vitro pharmacology.
- Experience with iPSC-differentiated cell models for in vitro pharmacology, preferably ophthalmology/neuroscience models.
- Experience with automated or semi-automated instrumentation and AI/ML applications.
- Previous pharmaceutical/biotech experience in relevant models.
Genentech Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Genentech and has not been reviewed or approved by Genentech.
-
Healthcare Strength — Health coverage is described as comprehensive across medical, dental, vision, mental health, and prescriptions, supported by HSAs/FSAs and broad wellness resources. On‑site fitness and health centers, mental‑health clinicians, and specialized programs like fully covered preventive cancer screenings and menopause support deepen the offering.
-
Retirement Support — Retirement benefits feature a 401(k) with up to a 4% company match plus an additional annual 6% company contribution to eligible pay. Additional financial protections such as life and accident insurance complement salary, bonuses, and stock options.
-
Leave & Time Off Breadth — Time away includes about 20 paid vacation days, paid holidays, personal days, and a year‑end shutdown. A paid six‑week sabbatical every six years notably expands long‑term time‑off flexibility.
Genentech Insights
What We Do
Considered the founder of the industry, Genentech, now a member of the Roche Group, has been delivering on the promise of biotechnology for more than 40 years. Genentech is a biotechnology company dedicated to pursuing groundbreaking science to discover and develop medicines for people with serious and life-threatening diseases. Our transformational discoveries include the first targeted antibody for cancer and the first medicine for primary progressive multiple sclerosis. We're passionate about finding solutions for people facing the world's most difficult-to-treat conditions. That is why we use cutting-edge science to create and deliver innovative medicines around the globe. To us, science is personal. Making a difference in the lives of millions starts when you make a change in yours.
