Sr. Principal Scientist, Neurodegeneration

Role Summary

Senior Principal Scientist, Neurodegeneration leading neuroscience-focused biology efforts within the Respiratory Immunology Inflammatory Research Unit (RIIRU) at GSK's Upper Providence facility. The role supports research in neurodegenerative diseases (AD, PD, ALS) through target biology hypothesis development, assay creation, and cross-functional collaboration. Requires a PhD with substantial industry experience and a track record in early-stage drug discovery and neurodegeneration biology.

Responsibilities

• Lead biology studies from bench to support discovery projects by developing target–disease biology hypotheses, establishing and performing in vitro iPSC-derived CNS cell/ex vivo cellular assays, primarily using biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology.
• Develop novel assays with high translational value to interrogate target or disease biology.
• Develop testable target and biomarker hypotheses based on omics data.
• Optimize and perform in vitro assays to support lead optimization of molecules.
• Collaborate with matrix partners to lead workstreams toward project milestones.
• Periodically update work status to project teams, matrix partners, and senior stakeholders.
• Manage time efficiently and maintain productivity with competing priorities.
• Ensure compliance with GSK policies and SOPs, including electronic lab notebook records and lab safety.

Qualifications

• Required: PhD in Biochemistry (preferably with Alzheimer's disease focus) with 5+ years of industry drug discovery experience.
• Required: 3+ years of experience leading biology studies in early-stage drug discovery projects.
• Required: 3+ years of experience in protein isolation from iPS-derived cells, human brain/biofluid samples, and characterization using biochemical and mass spectrometric methods.
• Required: 8+ years’ experience with iPSC-derived CNS cells and standard laboratory techniques (cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry).
• Required: 5+ years’ experience developing assays to investigate target mechanisms/biology, preferably in Alzheimer’s disease using iPSC-derived cells in 2D configuration.
• Required: 3+ years’ experience using AI/ML tools to develop biological/mechanistic hypotheses using omics data.
• Preferred: Proficiency in conceptualizing, designing, and developing complex assays utilizing diverse cellular models including primary and hiPSC-derived neurons, microglia, and astrocytes.
• Preferred: 5+ years deep multidisciplinary expertise in biological mass spectrometry, quantitative proteomics (including SILAC) and label-free techniques, and targeted proteomics workflow.
• Preferred: 5+ years’ experience deploying cell-based target engagement assays and establishing proximal functional pharmacology.
• Preferred: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team and effective communication skills.

Education

• PhD in Biochemistry (or closely related field) with emphasis on neurodegeneration or Alzheimer's disease and substantial industry drug discovery experience.