Scientist, GPCR Biology - San Diego, CA

Scientist, GPCR Biology

Location: San Diego, CA

At dsm-firmenich, we decode human perception to create breakthrough taste and mouthfeel solutions. In this role, you will use your expertise in G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) biology, pharmacology and assay development to discover and characterize modulators of receptors involved in taste and oral sensations. You’ll partner closely with Biology, High-Throughput Screening, Chemistry and Data Science teams to translate receptor biology into new ingredient concepts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, build, and run cell-based GPCR assays to study receptor function and enable screening of agonists/antagonists/modulators (e.g., Ca²⁺ flux, cAMP, IP-One/IP3, β-arrestin, reporter gene, BRET/FRET-based readouts, SPRM), including assay optimization for robustness, throughput, and reproducibility.


• Drive GPCR pharmacology and structure–function investigations: interpret potency/efficacy, bias, desensitization/internalization, allosteric modulation, species variants, and key mutagenesis experiments to map binding and signalling determinants.


• Collaborate closely with Data Science and Computational teams to apply in silico drug discovery approaches, including molecular docking, structure‑based modeling, and AI/ML‑driven prediction methods, in support of GPCR discovery programs.


• Document, analyze, and communicate results through clear experimental design, statistics, and data visualization; contribute to internal reports, invention disclosures, and cross-functional decision-making in a fast-paced environment.

We Bring:

• The opportunity to work in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary R&D environment exploring receptors that shape taste and mouthfeel perception and their industrial applications.


• A culture that fosters teamwork, scientific excellence, safety, and well-being, with strong opportunities for learning and growth


• The chance to contribute to innovation platforms that connect receptor biology, sensory science, and data-driven discovery to deliver meaningful consumer experiences.

You Bring:

• PhD in Cell Biology, Pharmacology, Neurobiology, or closely related discipline, with hands-on, experimental expertise in GPCR biology.


• Strong publication record demonstrating in-depth understanding of GPCR signaling and pharmacology, including assay principles, controls, artifacts/interference, and quantitative interpretation (concentration-response modeling, potency/efficacy, bias concepts).


• Strong molecular biology (cloning, transfection, construct design, mutagenesis) and mammalian cell culture skills, with a track record of building reliable cell-based assays.


• Expertise with taste receptors, especially sweet and/or bitter taste receptors structure/function and signaling, and experience designing assays/counter screens suited to these targets highly desirable.


• Experience working at the interface of wet‑lab GPCR biology and in silico discovery, including collaboration on docking, structure‑guided SAR, or AI‑enabled screening and prioritization highly desirable.


• Receptor binding assay experience (radioligand or non-radioactive binding, kinetic binding concepts, competition formats) desirable. 

• Data analysis skills in R or Python (dose–response fitting, visualization, statistical rigor) desirable. 

The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will be based on the applicant’s job-related skills, experience, relevant education, or training, and primary work location. This position is also eligible for bonuses and benefits, which are not included in the pay scale provided. Salary $100,00-$140,000.

About dsm-firmenich

At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations – we go beyond them.

Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.

From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions – every single day. Whether it’s fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere.

And while you’re making a difference, we’ll make sure you’re growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They’re essential to our future. 

Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together.

The application process

Interested in this position? Please apply online by uploading your resume in English no later than May 22, 2026.

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement

At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you.

And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.

Agency statement

We’re managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you’re applying as an individual, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.