Senior Associate Scientist, Translational Research (Contractor)

*Note: this is temporary 6-month position with potential for extension. *

Company Overview: 

Vividion is a next generation biotechnology company based in San Diego that is leveraging its proprietary chemical proteomics platform to conduct proteome-wide footprinting of drug-protein interactions with unprecedented breadth and precision. Our technology allows us to screen, identify and optimize novel drugs that selectively bind virtually any protein, including proteins previously considered “undruggable”.  Our pipeline and emerging programs reflect a matured and productive platform capable of delivering first in class drugs utilizing novel mechanisms of action (allosteric inhibitors, protein-protein interaction inhibitors, functional activators, degraders etc.) against undruggable targets in the oncology and immunology space.  

We are uniquely structured with opportunities for all scientists to contribute to both established programs as well as ongoing early target selection, screens and validation.  We prize scientific excellence, creativity, team players and we are committed to continued innovation.  We have worked hard to create a collaborative and dynamic work culture where your ideas and discoveries are valued and will have an impact.  We are growing and there are opportunities for mentorship and career progression.

Vividion has been recognized as a Top Workplace by The San Diego Union-Tribune from 2022 to 2025.

Job Summary: 

Vividion Therapeutics is seeking a hands-on Translational Researcher to support biomarker discovery and translational studies across oncology, immunology, and in vivo pharmacology programs. The contractor will perform molecular and tissue-based assays, manage sample workflows, analyze data, and collaborate with cross-functional research teams.

The ideal candidate has experience with qPCR, tissue processing, mammalian cell culture, and biomarker analysis. Experience with immunohistochemistry, multiplex IHC, immunofluorescence, spatial biology, or other tissue-based assays is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute translational research studies across oncology, immunology, and in vivo pharmacology programs.
• Perform RNA and DNA extraction, qPCR, RT-qPCR, gene-expression analysis, and sample preparation.
• Conduct mammalian cell culture and support in vitro pharmacology experiments.
• Process and manage tissue samples for molecular and histological analyses.
• Perform or coordinate IHC, multiplex IHC, immunofluorescence, spatial biology, and other biomarker assays.
• Support tissue-based molecular characterization using internal platforms and external partners.
• Analyze data, maintain accurate experimental records, and communicate findings.
• Optimize, validate, and troubleshoot assays to improve quality and reproducibility.
• Collaborate with Translational Sciences, Biology, Pharmacology, and Biomarker teams.
• Maintain laboratory compliance, inventory, equipment, and documentation.

Education and Experience requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, biotechnology, immunology, cancer biology, or a related discipline.
• 8+ years of relevant biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry experience.
• Hands-on experience with qPCR or RT-qPCR, nucleic acid isolation, mammalian cell culture, tissue processing, and IHC.
• Strong experimental documentation and data-analysis skills.
• Ability to independently execute laboratory studies in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting oncology, immunology, or early clinical development programs.
• Experience with multiplex IHC, immunofluorescence, spatial biology, FFPE tissue, or digital pathology.
• Knowledge of translational biomarker development and pharmacodynamic assessments.
• Exposure to in vivo pharmacology and tissue-collection workflows.

Pay & Salary:  

The hourly pay for this position ranges from $45.00 to $55.00 depending on relevant skills, competencies, experience, and education. 

EEO & Employment Eligibility:

Vividion Therapeutics, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Privacy Policy:

The protection of your personal information is a commitment we take seriously. For information regarding our Privacy Policy (CA candidates) please visit https://vividion.com/publication/privacy-noticeforcalifornia-candidates/.