About Athira

Athira Pharma is a clinical stage biotechnology company with the mission to restore lives by advancing bold therapies, thoughtfully and urgently. With our platform of innovative regenerative brain-penetrant small molecules, our focus is on restoring neuronal health for those suffering from neurological diseases so that patients can regain their memories, lives, and family relationships. Our lead asset, fosgonimeton (ATH-1017) is in late-stage clinical studies for Alzheimer’s disease. Fosgonimeton is also being studied outside of Alzheimer’s disease in both Parkinson’s disease dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies. Beyond our lead asset, our platform of novel therapeutics has the potential to impact other neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric conditions ranging from depression, multiple sclerosis, and neuropathy. Join our motivated and impassioned team working to provide better care for people through innovative research and accessible products committed to making a positive impact on human health.

About this role:

The Principal Research Scientist, Discovery Biology role drives the research laboratory activities of the in vitro Discovery Biology team. The primary responsibility of this role will be to design, implement, and perform in vitro studies to further understanding of target biology and advance our pipeline programs.  This role will be responsible for setting strategy for ongoing drug discovery work, executing in vitro bench experiments, managing technical personnel, and communicating progress and findings to research leadership. The successful candidate will be expected to work independently and innovatively, align activities with research program objectives, and maintain knowledge of the state of technology in the drug discovery field. The successful team member must be highly detail-oriented, self-motivated, scientifically-minded, and communicative. This position will report to the Director of Discovery Biology.

Responsibilities:

• Direct responsibility for leading designated in vitro drug discovery programs.
• Provide strategic and technical leadership for in vitro and other preclinical projects.
• Lead and execute bench work and manage technical staff to produce internal study data.
• Engage and manage external contract research.
• Document and report study outcomes.
• Interpret and communicate research findings both internally and externally and contribute to scientific communications.
• Actively guide team discussions, experimental analysis and conclusions, and professional growth of research colleagues.
• Maintain familiarity with current technologies and identify emerging technologies in the relevant research space including literature review, technical product identification, and competitive landscape.

Qualifications and Experience:

• PhD in biology, chemistry, neuroscience or related field with 8+ years of relevant drug discovery research experience, with commercial research experience preferred.
• Hands-on in vitro wet-bench experimental experience required.
• Project management and leadership experience required.
• Experience with mammalian tissue culture and a demonstrated broad knowledge of in vitro models of neuroscience required.
• Small molecule drug discovery experience preferred.
• Ability to work in a BSL-2 facility.
• Detail-oriented individual that can contribute to operational documentation and accuracy in reporting results.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage drug discovery projects and technical personnel.
• Facility with Windows OS, MS Office, and scientific software including basic statistical packages and electronic laboratory notebook.
• Excellent communication skills with documented ability to effectively communicate to a broad range of audiences.
• Self-motivated individual able to work both independently and collaboratively to efficiently advance multiple projects.
• Alignment with Athira’s mission and values:
  • Mission: To restore lives by advancing bold therapies, thoughtful and urgently.
  • Values: People, Perseverance, Inclusion, Transformation, Resourcefulness, Collaboration, and Integrity.

 

Placement in salary range is dependent upon experience, market rate and internal equity considerations.

Apply by emailing your resume and cover letter to: recruiting@athira.com

 

We offer competitive compensation and benefits designed to help you find balance, grow, and thrive at work and in life.  Benefits at a glance:

• Company paid medical, dental and vision coverage
• Company paid life and disability benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Flexible spending account (FSA)
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Paid time off, 10 paid holidays, year-end holiday closure
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible work environment
• Annual Bonus and Stock Options

 

Athira is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on the basis of an individual’s race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law. This policy applies to all terms, conditions and privileges of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, compensation, promotion, discipline and termination.