Senior / Principal Scientist, Cell Biology & Disease Modeling, Deep Science Lead
Lila Sciences is seeking a Senior or Principal Scientist to lead the development and deployment of human disease models that drive discovery and therapeutic decision-making across various modalities, including RNA, enzyme, and antibody therapies. This role emphasizes disease modeling excellence and requires a candidate with broad expertise in biological systems and modalities, coupled with significant hands-on laboratory engagement.
The successful candidate will design and execute disease-relevant human model systems, selecting appropriate biological complexities such as engineered cell lines, primary cells, co-cultures, organoids, or advanced tissue systems. They will define disease-relevant phenotypes, perturbation strategies, and decision criteria that connect mechanisms to therapeutic hypotheses. Maintaining over 30% bench time, the scientist will lead experiments to de-risk biology, prototype new models, and establish technical standards. Additionally, they will design and implement quantitative assays, including functional, imaging-based, and safety-aware readouts that are scalable and decision-enabling.
Candidates must possess a Ph.D. with 5-6+ years, or an M.S. with 8+ years, of industry experience in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Developmental Biology, Immunology, or a related discipline. They should have extensive experience in designing and executing human disease models that inform therapeutic discovery and program decisions. A strong hands-on experimental background, including cell-based assays, functional biology, and imaging-based readouts, is essential. The role also requires familiarity with sequencing, profiling, and molecular characterization technologies, as well as experience in leading projects and mentoring scientists in fast-paced, multidisciplinary environments.
Lila Sciences offers competitive compensation, including bonus potential and generous early equity. The expected base salary range for this position is $148,000 to $208,000 USD. The final offer will reflect the candidate's unique background, expertise, and impact.
Lila Sciences is the world’s first scientific superintelligence platform and autonomous lab for life, chemistry, and materials science. The company is pioneering a new age of boundless discovery by building capabilities to apply AI to every aspect of the scientific method. Lila Sciences aims to solve humankind's greatest challenges, enabling scientists to bring forth solutions in human health, climate, and sustainability at an unprecedented pace and scale.