Scientist II, Cellular Neuroscience and Translational Pharmacology

Role Summary We are seeking a highly collaborative, hands-on Scientist II to help establish a preclinical neuroscience laboratory supporting small-molecule and protein therapeutics. The immediate priorities are rapid cellular profiling and lead selection for an advanced small-molecule enzyme program, and leadership of cellular development for a transferrin-based protein replacement project. The role will also build fit-for-purpose human neuronal models, laboratory workflows, and external partnerships. Location We welcome applications from candidates located across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

Primary Responsibilities

Lead a rapid, tiered cellular assay strategy for small-molecule lead optimization, including target engagement, pharmacodynamics, concentration-response, duration, selectivity, neuronal phenotype, stress, and tolerability

Lead cellular development of a transferrin-based protein replacement project by establishing quantitative assays for construct uptake, internalization, intracellular trafficking, protein abundance and integrity, mitochondrial response, and disease-relevant phenotypic rescue

Use orthogonal methods to distinguish surface-bound, internalized, degraded, and functionally delivered protein; compare constructs and define advancement criteria

Establish fit-for-purpose neuronal culture models, including iPSC-derived neurons or glia where they add decision value, with appropriate banking and quality control

Define assay controls, acceptance criteria, reproducibility standards, analysis plans, SOPs, sample tracking, and electronic documentation

Translate data into concise recommendations to advance, modify, or discontinue assets

Partner across protein engineering, chemistry, bioanalysis, DMPK, pathology, computational biology, and in vivo pharmacology; scientifically manage CROs and assay transfers

Mentor junior scientists and build workflows that are reproducible across operators. Future scope may include ASO screening in partnership with external experts

Required Skills and Qualifications

PhD in pharmacology, neuroscience, molecular biology, chemical biology, cell biology, or a related discipline, plus 1 to 3 years of biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry experience

Demonstrated experience in cellular pharmacology, assay development, and iterative drug discovery or lead optimization

Hands-on experience with neuronal cell culture models, preferably human iPSC-derived neurons or glia

Expertise in concentration-response, time-course, target-engagement, pharmacodynamic, quantitative data-analysis, and troubleshooting studies

Concrete examples of scientific ownership in which an assay, platform, or data package influenced a program decision

Excellent communication skills and willingness to maintain a substantial hands-on laboratory presence

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

Enzyme biology, epigenetics, or transcriptional pharmacology; therapeutic proteins or targeted-delivery constructs; cellular uptake, trafficking, or protein quantification; mitochondrial functional assays; high-content imaging or neuronal functional assays; transferrin receptor biology, BBB transport, or biodistribution; laboratory start-up, assay transfer, or CRO management

Exposure to ASO screening or RNA pharmacology is beneficial

About LEXEO Lexeo Therapeutics is a New York City-based, clinical stage company dedicated to reshaping the path of genetic disease. By advancing pioneering science, Lexeo seeks to set a new standard in the treatment of cardiovascular and neurological genetic diseases, charting the path to patient outcomes once thought out of reach. The Company is advancing a portfolio of therapeutic candidates designed to address the underlying genetic causes of disease, including LX2006 for Friedreich ataxia (FA), LX2020 for plakophilin-2 (PKP2) arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, and others in devastating diseases with high unmet need. LEXEO Therapeutics is an EEO employer committed to an exciting, diverse, and enriching work environment.