Sr Scientist In Vitro R&D Contractor

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Scientist / Senior Scientist to support mechanism of action (MoA) elucidation for rilparencel, our autologous kidney cell therapy currently being evaluated in a Phase 3 clinical study, as well as the development of next-generation cell therapies. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will translate translational biology hypotheses into rigorous experimental designs that generate the definitive data needed to support publications and potential regulatory filings.

The ideal candidate is a strategic scientific problem-solver who navigates the non-linear dynamics of complex biological systems. You possess the scientific maturity to design robust experimental frameworks that deconstruct biological noise and contextualize donor variability. Leveraging hands-on expertise in multi-parameter flow cytometry, cell sorting, and genetic engineering, you will design advanced models to deconvolute cellular heterogeneity and interrogate pathways of interest. You possess the ability to synthesize high-dimensional, multi-modal datasets into actionable insights that shape our overarching translational strategy and cross-functional decision-making.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Mechanism of Action Elucidation

• Autologous Modeling: Design in vitro systems that deliberately account for and characterize donor heterogeneity and functional variability within an in vitro disease model system.


• Phenotypic Profiling: Utilize multi-parameter flow cytometry (FACS) for high-resolution cell sorting, phenotyping, and functional characterization within heterogeneous populations.


• Target validation: Apply gene editing technologies to interrogate specific molecular mechanisms.

R&D Analytical Development

• Mechanism-Informed Assay Design: Develop and evaluate novel functional testing methodologies to identify and inform prospective therapeutic potency metrics.


• Optimization & Diagnostics: Establish rigorous experimental controls to maximize signal-to-noise ratios and autonomously investigate complex biological datasets to inform experimental strategies.


• Quality & Reproducibility: Design highly reproducible workflows that ensure data integrity and adherence to standard operating procedures.

Data Interpretation & Communication

• Data Synthesis: Integrate and visualize multi-modal datasets to generate a cohesive understanding of biological mechanisms.


• Scientific Communication: Communicate experimental findings effectively across cross-functional groups.

Qualifications & Experience

Education & Experience

• Scientist / Sr. Scientist: Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Systems Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field with 0+ / 2+ years of industry or relevant post-doctoral experience; OR a Master’s degree with 2+ / 4+ years of industry experience; OR a Bachelor’s degree with 4+ / 8+ years of industry experience

Knowledge & Skills

• Flow Cytometry / FACS: Multi-parameter flow cytometry panel design, execution, and data analysis for cellular phenotyping and functional profiling.


• Gene Editing: Hands-on experience with molecular gene editing tools to engineer cells or model specific pathway manipulations.


• Assay Development: A proven track record of independently designing, optimizing, and functionally validating non-standard cell-based assays.


• Complex Systems: Hands-on experience working with primary human cells, complex co-culture systems, or tissue models where cell behavior is highly context dependent.


• Autonomy & Agility: Capability to operate with autonomy in a fast-paced environment, shifting technical directions fluidly as new data emerges.

Skills List:

• Assay development and validation


• Flow cytometry / FACS


• Molecular biology and gene editing


• Mammalian cell culture / co-culture


• Analytical instrument troubleshooting


• Data synthesis and statistical analysis


• SOP compliance


• Analytical problem solving


• Cross-functional collaboration


• Project management and autonomy

ProKidney is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant because of race, creed, color, age, national origin, ancestry, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, veteran status, military status, application for military service or any other class protected by state or federal law.

Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for work visa or residency sponsorship.