Project Scientist, Translational Drug Development and Biomarker Discovery Full-time

Project Scientist, Translational Drug Development and Biomarker Discovery

The Nathanson Laboratory in the Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) seeks a Project Scientist to lead translational drug development and biomarker discovery efforts focused on glioblastoma. This position will direct clinically inspired research programs leveraging a large, well-annotated library of patient-derived cancer models to evaluate novel therapeutics, drug combinations and develop biomarkers. The Project Scientist will provide scientific leadership for multidisciplinary research teams and play a central role in integrating molecular, functional, and bioinformatic data to advance precision oncology strategies. This work is conducted in close collaboration with clinicians, computational scientists, and industry partners. The ideal candidate should have a Ph.D. in the biosciences (e.g., cancer biology, pharmacology, molecular biology, or related field).

Responsibilities:

• Lead translational drug development studies using patient-derived in vitro and in vivo cancer models, including orthotopic xenograft systems.
• Design and execute clinically relevant experimental paradigms that model therapeutic response, adaptation, and resistance.
• Direct biomarker discovery and validation efforts, integrating multi-omic, functional, and phenotypic datasets.
• Oversee analysis and interpretation of large-scale bioinformatic datasets in collaboration with computational researchers.
• Investigate cell fate and cell death pathways as determinants of therapeutic sensitivity and resistance.
• Manage research personnel, including trainees and technical staff.
• Contribute to high-impact publications, grant applications, and intellectual property development.

Previous experience with the following is highly desirable:

• Biomarker discovery and integration across diverse data types.
• Hands-on experience with patient-derived cancer models, including orthotopic in vivo systems.
• Proficiency in handling and interpreting large bioinformatic datasets.
• Strong background in cell fate pathways and mechanisms of cancer resistance.
• Proven ability to lead research teams and manage complex, multi-project workflows.
• Record of high-impact publications in translational oncology.
• Experience designing studies that inform clinical trial strategy.
• Prior participation in grant-funded, multidisciplinary research programs.

Basic qualifications:

Ph.D. in Biosciences

Preferred qualifications:

Previous experience with the following is highly desirable:

Biomarker discovery and integration across diverse data types.

Hands-on experience with patient-derived cancer models, including orthotopic in vivo systems.

Proficiency in handling and interpreting large bioinformatic datasets.

Strong background in cell fate pathways and mechanisms of cancer resistance.

Proven ability to lead research teams and manage complex, multi-project workflows.

Record of high-impact publications in translational oncology.

Experience designing studies that inform clinical trial strategy.

Prior participation in grant-funded, multidisciplinary research programs.

Application Requirements:

Document requirements:

• Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter (Optional)
• Statement of Research Interests and Leadership Experience
• Statement of Teaching (Optional)
• Reference check authorization release form – Complete and upload the reference check authorization release form

Reference requirements:

• 2-4 required (contact information only)

References may be contacted to verify experience.

About UCLA:

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

• “Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
• APM – 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Job location:

Los Angeles, CA