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Senior Scientist I, Biological Sciences

Company Description

Deciphera, a member of ONO, is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing and commercializing important new medicines to improve the lives of people with cancer. We are leveraging our proprietary switch-control kinase inhibitor platform and deep expertise in kinase biology to develop a broad portfolio of innovative medicines.

Enabled by our proprietary drug discovery platform, Deciphera has developed a diverse pipeline of wholly-owned drug candidates. QINLOCK® (ripretinib) is Deciphera’s switch control inhibitor developed for the treatment of fourth-line GIST. QINLOCK is approved in Australia, Canada, China, the European Union, Hong Kong, Switzerland, Taiwan, the United States, and the United Kingdom.  We wholly own QINLOCK and all of our drug candidates with the exception of a development and commercialization out-license agreement for QINLOCK in Greater China. In addition to QINLOCK, we have identified and advanced multiple product candidates from our platform into clinical studies, including vimseltinib and DCC-3116.  

See here for more details on our portfolio.

We offer an outstanding culture and opportunity for personal and professional growth guided by our “PATHS” Core Values and how we work together. We are proud to be Great Place to Work Certified 2023 and rank #25 on Fortune’s Best Places to Work Small and Midsized Biotech Companies in 2023. Find more details about our award-winning culture here.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated, creative, and collaborative Senior Scientist to join our Biological Sciences drug discovery group. This position will be responsible for designing, performing, coordinating, and interpreting structural biology, biochemical, biophysical, and cellular experiments for our drug discovery programs. This includes the development of relevant model systems for the identification, validation, and screening of compounds against novel therapeutic targets. The successful candidate will work independently, but also as an integral part of a larger team to achieve collective goals. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of biochemistry and structural biology and will apply this this to challenging ongoing and new drug discovery programs.

This position will report to a Senior Director, Biological Sciences, and work onsite at our research facility in Lawrence, Kansas.

What You’ll Do:

  • Conceive, develop, and optimize biochemical and cellular assays to determine the therapeutic potential of rationally designed targeted small molecules
  • Work collaboratively with biologists, medicinal chemists, and external partners to deliver high quality structures of macromolecular complexes, custom proteins, and reagents
  • Design and conduct rigorous experiments to identify and validate potential novel drug targets
  • Document experimental design, analysis, and interpretation of data in an ELN and LIMS system
  • Stay abreast of the latest scientific and technological advancements in the field
  • Author technical reports and presentations to communicate data and analyses effectively
  • Add to Deciphera culture of collaboration and shared mission to solve complex biological problems
  • Adhere to corporate policies including safety and compliance

Qualifications

What You'll Bring:

  • A PhD in Biochemistry or related field with 1+ years of biotech or pharma industry experience
  • An ability to think independently to design high-throughput experiments and generate robust, reproducible results
  • Experience working with automated laboratory instruments including ECHO, Bravo, and multi-mode plate readers
  • Expertise in biochemistry or biophysics, HTS assay development, molecular biology, protein purification, X-ray crystallography or Cryo EM
  • Adaptability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills

Additional Information

Deciphera offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes but is not limited to the following:

  • Non-accrual paid time off
  • Summer vacation bonus
  • Global, company-wide summer and winter shutdowns
  • An annual lifestyle allowance
  • Monthly cell phone stipend
  • Internal rewards and recognition program
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Life and Supplemental life insurance for family
  • Short and Long Term Disability insurance
  • ESPP offering
  • Health savings account with company contribution
  • Flexible spending account for either health care and/or dependent care.
  • Family planning benefit
  • Generous parental leave
  • [if applicable] Car allowance

Deciphera, a member of ONO, is a company headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts. Our state-of-the-art research facility is located in Lawrence, Kansas and our European operations are run out of Switzerland.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY INFORMATION

Deciphera is committed to equal employment opportunity and values diversity. To ensure that we comply with reporting requirements and to learn more about how we can increase diversity in our candidate pool, we invite you to voluntarily provide demographic information in a confidential survey at the end of this application. Providing this information is optional. It will not be accessible or used in the hiring process, and has no effect on your opportunity for employment. This information will also be treated confidentially.  Our commitment to increasing diversity in our candidate pool does not affect our commitment to equal employment opportunity, including our ongoing commitment to make all hiring and other employment decisions solely on a nondiscriminatory basis.

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Average salary estimate

$100000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$80000K
$120000K

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What You Should Know About Senior Scientist I, Biological Sciences, Deciphera Pharmaceuticals

Deciphera, a member of ONO, is seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Senior Scientist I in Biological Sciences to join our innovative drug discovery group in Lawrence, KS. In this role, you'll take the lead in designing and executing a variety of experiments that are central to the discovery of novel cancer treatments. Imagine working on cutting-edge projects that involve structural biology, biochemistry, and cell biology, all aimed at developing transformative medicines like QINLOCK®. We pride ourselves on a collaborative culture where your creative ideas will be valued, and your independent thinking is encouraged. As part of a team that boasts a diverse pipeline of drug candidates, including vimseltinib and DCC-3116, you will play a crucial role in designing assays, validating drug targets, and contributing to the advancement of our proprietary drug discovery platform. Your expertise in protein purification, high-throughput screening, and structural biology will shine as you work alongside biologists and chemists to characterize macromolecular complexes. If you're keen to stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements while being part of an award-winning workplace, this is your chance to thrive at Deciphera, where your contributions directly impact patient lives. Join us on this exciting journey, and take the next step in your career with Deciphera's dedicated team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior Scientist I, Biological Sciences Role at Deciphera Pharmaceuticals
What are the main responsibilities of a Senior Scientist I at Deciphera?

As a Senior Scientist I at Deciphera, your primary responsibilities will include designing, conducting, and interpreting experiments related to structural biology, biochemistry, and cellular studies. You will develop and optimize assays, validate therapeutic targets, and ensure seamless collaboration with various teams. Your expertise will help shape our drug discovery programs, making significant contributions to the fight against cancer.

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What qualifications are required for the Senior Scientist I position at Deciphera?

To qualify for the Senior Scientist I position at Deciphera, candidates should hold a PhD in Biochemistry or a related field, coupled with at least one year of relevant biotech or pharmaceutical experience. Expertise in high-throughput screening, molecular biology, and structural biology techniques is essential. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment will also be important.

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What is the working environment like for a Senior Scientist I at Deciphera?

The working environment for a Senior Scientist I at Deciphera is collaborative and innovative, set within a state-of-the-art research facility in Lawrence, Kansas. You'll be part of a supportive team culture that values shared success and aims to solve complex biological challenges. We also prioritize work-life balance, offering flexible work options and comprehensive benefits.

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How does Deciphera support the professional development of a Senior Scientist I?

At Deciphera, we are committed to the professional development of all our staff, including Senior Scientists I. This includes opportunities for continuous learning, attending conferences, and collaborating on groundbreaking projects. Our culture encourages you to stay current with scientific advancements, allowing you to lead cutting-edge research that can significantly impact therapy development.

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What kind of team will a Senior Scientist I work with at Deciphera?

As a Senior Scientist I at Deciphera, you'll work closely with multidisciplinary teams that include biologists, medicinal chemists, and external partners. This collaborative approach not only enriches your research experience but also enables the sharing of diverse perspectives, ensuring comprehensive exploration of complex biological problems.

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Common Interview Questions for Senior Scientist I, Biological Sciences
How do you approach designing an experiment for drug discovery?

When designing an experiment for drug discovery, I first identify the therapeutic target and its biological significance. Then, I outline the specific objectives and determine the appropriate assays and methodologies to use. Ensuring robust controls and reproducibility is crucial, and I always follow best practices in documentation and data analysis.

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Can you explain a challenging project you worked on and how you overcame obstacles?

In one project, I faced difficulties with protein purification that led to inconsistent results. To overcome this, I optimized the purification protocol and employed alternative methods. This experience taught me the importance of flexibility and critical thinking in research, ultimately resulting in successful protein characterization.

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What techniques do you use in high-throughput screening?

I typically use techniques such as automated liquid handling systems and multi-mode plate readers for high-throughput screening. I design assays with a focus on sensitivity and specificity to ensure the detection of potential drug candidates while minimizing background noise.

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How do you stay current with developments in biochemistry and structural biology?

To stay current, I regularly read scientific journals, attend conferences, and participate in webinars related to biochemistry and structural biology. Networking with peers and engaging in discussions helps me gain insights into the latest technologies and methodologies.

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Describe your experience with X-ray crystallography or Cryo EM.

I have hands-on experience with X-ray crystallography, where I've been involved in crystallization trials and data collection. I also have a foundational understanding of Cryo EM techniques, having collaborated with teams utilizing this method. Both technologies are vital for understanding the structures of macromolecules.

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What role does collaboration play in your research?

Collaboration is essential in my research as it brings diverse expertise to the table. By working alongside chemists, biologists, and data scientists, I can leverage different perspectives, which often leads to innovative solutions and more robust experimental designs.

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How do you handle setbacks in a research project?

I view setbacks as opportunities for learning. When faced with challenges, I analyze the potential causes, consult with colleagues for input, and explore alternative strategies. A positive attitude and persistence are crucial for navigating research hurdles.

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What are some key safety considerations in a lab environment?

Key safety considerations include adhering to proper laboratory protocols, using personal protective equipment, and being aware of chemical hazards. Regular safety trainings and maintaining clear communication with the team help create a safe working environment.

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Can you provide an example of how you communicated complex data effectively?

In a previous role, I prepared a presentation summarizing complex experimental results for a multidisciplinary team. I focused on clarity, using visual aids and simplifying technical jargon to ensure that everyone grasped the essential findings and their implications.

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What motivates you to work in the field of drug discovery?

My motivation stems from the potential to make a positive impact on patient lives through innovative therapies. The challenge of solving complex biological problems and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries invigorates my passion for research.

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