Clinical Research Scientist

Job Title: Clinical Research Scientist I

Location: Foster City, CA (Onsite)

Job Type: Contract

Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Clinical Research Scientist I to join an innovative research team focused on developing next-generation therapies for chronic viral infections, including HBV, HDV, and HSV. The ideal candidate will have hands-on laboratory experience in immunology, virology, and molecular biology and enjoy working in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and execute laboratory experiments to support research programs.

• Develop, validate, and perform cell-based, biochemical, immunology, and virology assays.

• Construct and propagate mutant viruses for research studies.

• Evaluate the antiviral activity (EC50) of drug candidates against mutant viruses.

• Investigate the mechanism of action of lead compounds.

• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data to project teams.

• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and recommend effective solutions.

• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.

• Collaborate with cross-functional scientists to achieve project milestones.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related Life Sciences discipline.

• Minimum 3 years of relevant laboratory research experience.

• Strong experience with one or more of the following:

  • Primary cell isolation and cell culture

  • ELISA or Luminex assays

  • RNA and DNA isolation

  • qPCR

  • Molecular cloning

  • Virus production

  • Immune cell functional assays

  • Multi-color Flow Cytometry (FACS)

Preferred Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Ability to evaluate data quality and identify inconsistencies.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

• Experience supporting drug discovery or translational research is a plus.