Who We are:

Calico (Calico Life Sciences LLC) is an Alphabet-founded research and development company whose mission is to harness advanced technologies and model systems to increase our understanding of the biology that controls human aging. Calico will use that knowledge to devise interventions that enable people to lead longer and healthier lives. Calico’s highly innovative technology labs, its commitment to curiosity-driven discovery science and, with academic and industry partners, its vibrant drug-development pipeline, together create an inspiring and exciting place to catalyze and enable medical breakthroughs.

Position Description:

We are seeking a skilled and highly motivated In Vitro/Ex Vivo Assay Specialist to provide essential analytical support for our preclinical in vivo pharmacology studies. This role is a key technical resource within the in vivo pharmacology group, serving as the "go-to" expert for processing, analyzing, and interpreting study samples. The ideal candidate will be adept at developing and executing various biochemical and cellular assays to generate data that drives critical project decisions.

Key Responsibilities:

Assay Development & Execution

• Essential Assay Support: Serve as the primary specialist for all in vitro and ex vivo assay needs generated from ongoing in vivo pharmacology studies
• Assay Development & Optimization: Develop, optimize, and rigorously validate novel and established assays (e.g., ELISA, western blot, qPCR, enzymatic assays, cellular functional assays) to measure pharmacodynamic (PD) markers, target engagement, and efficacy endpoints in complex biological matrices (tissue homogenates, plasma, CSF, etc.)
• Sample Analysis: Process and meticulously analyze study samples generated from internal experiments and those received from external partners and Contract Research Organizations (CROs), ensuring high-quality, reproducible data
• Technical Resource: Act as a subject matter expert, training team members on assay protocols and troubleshooting complex technical issues in the lab

Data Analysis & Project Impact

• Data Interpretation: Perform detailed data analysis, visualization, and interpretation, which includes ensuring data integrity, performing statistical analysis, and generating clear summaries
• Informing Decisions: Collaborate closely with the in vivo pharmacologists, DMPK lead and project teams to use the generated data to inform key project decisions, such as dose selection, mechanism-of-action confirmation, and candidate progression
• Documentation: Maintain meticulous laboratory records, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and detailed reports suitable for internal reviews and regulatory filings

Position Requirements:

• M.S. in Cell or Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or a related discipline with 10+ years of relevant industry experience
• Extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of analytical and biochemical techniques, specifically including:
• ELISA/MSD
• Western Blotting and other protein quantification methods
• qPCR/RT-PCR
• Processing of complex biological samples (e.g., tissue dissection, homogenization, cell culture).
• Direct experience in providing assay support for study samples generated by external partners or CROs is highly valued
• Must be proficient in managing and standardizing analytical pipelines for externally sourced samples.
• Proficient in statistical software and data analysis tools (e.g., GraphPad Prism, Excel) for analyzing and presenting complex data sets
• Strong organizational skills and excellent verbal and written communication ability to work effectively across interdisciplinary teams and manage external data streams
• Must be willing to work onsite 5 days a week

The estimated base salary range for this role is $147,000 - $159,000. Actual pay will be based on a number of factors including experience and qualifications. This position is also eligible for two annual cash bonuses.