Principal Scientist Full-time NEW

Principal Scientist

The Protein Homeostasis Thematic Research Center at BMS San Diego is seeking a Principal Scientist to join our Discovery Biology department. As a key scientific leader, you will drive genome engineering, target validation, and mechanism of action strategy across our hematology and oncology pipeline, with a strong focus on Acute Myeloid Leukemia and targeted protein degradation. This is a high-impact role at the intersection of cutting-edge biology and drug discovery, where your work will directly influence clinical advancement decisions.

Key Responsibilities

Genome Engineering & Cell Biology Platform Leadership

• Lead the genome engineering and cell line development platform supporting diverse oncology and hematology discovery programs
• Apply deep expertise in CRISPR/Cas9 (KO/KI/Activation), non-viral transposases, and lentiviral systems to generate isogenic disease models and SAR assay systems
• Design and implement high-throughput automation workflows to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs
• Develop novel cell-based SAR assays supporting E3 ubiquitin ligase-mediated TPD programs from hit-to-lead through clinical advancement

Target Validation & Mechanism of Action Leadership

• Lead target validation efforts for new and emerging discovery projects, defining experimental strategies to establish therapeutic relevance of novel targets in AML and related hematologic malignancies
• Design and oversee validation frameworks integrating CRISPR-KO, RNAi, CRISPRa, proteomics, transcriptomics, and functional cell biology
• Serve as primary scientific authority on target biology for assigned programs, evaluating and de-risking new targets prior to full drug discovery investment
• Generate and interpret MOA data packages pivotal for IND filings, clinical trial milestones, and regulatory submissions

Scientific Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Serve as Biology Lead on discovery project teams, providing strategic scientific direction and experimental guidance
• Lead multidisciplinary scientific discussions and represent Discovery Biology at internal and external forums (e.g., ASH, AACR)
• Mentor and develop junior scientists and postdoctoral researchers
• Manage external CRO relationships and coordinate multi-site collaborations for high-priority discovery projects
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives including automation development and OPEX reduction strategies

Experience

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree
• 8+ years of academic and/or industry experience

Or

• Master's Degree
• 6+ years of academic and/or industry experience

OR

• Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in the Life Sciences
• 4+ years of academic and/or industry experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Cellular/Developmental Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related field with 7+ years of post-doctoral experience
• Demonstrated expertise in CRISPR/Cas9-based genome engineering and non-viral gene integration systems
• Hands-on experience in Targeted Protein Degradation, including E3 ubiquitin ligase biology and degrader SAR programs
• Proven track record of advancing discovery assets into clinical trials, including IND-enabling data package generation
• Experience with automation platforms and high-throughput screening
• Strong communication skills with experience authoring scientific manuscripts and presenting at conferences
• Publications in peer-reviewed journals in oncology, hematology, or genome engineering preferred

Why BMS San Diego?

Our San Diego site is home to a dynamic, cross-functional discovery organization where genome engineering and cell biology platforms are central to advancing our clinical pipeline. You'll work alongside leading scientists in a collaborative environment with access to world-class tools, technologies, and resources — all focused on delivering transformative therapies to patients.