Scientist/Sr Scientist

TwoStep Therapeutics•San Carlos, CA

About The Position

TwoStep Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing a pipeline built around a unique tumor-targeting polyspecific integrin-binding peptide (PIP) that can selectively bind several targets that are highly expressed on solid tumors. This multi-targeting feature enables the agent’s broad applicability to a wide range of tumor types and patient populations, overcoming the limitations of single-antigen targeting approaches. The company has leveraged this technology to create a pipeline of targeted cancer therapies for cytotoxic drug delivery and radioligand therapy. TwoStep Therapeutics was co-founded by CEO, Caitlyn Miller, in collaboration with leading academic entrepreneurs at Stanford University, including Nobel Laureate Carolyn Bertozzi, Jennifer Cochran, and Ronald Levy. For more information, visit www.twosteptx.com or download our 2025 scientific poster ( linked here ). Position Overview We are seeking a driven and versatile Scientist/Sr Scientist to join our preclinical R&D team to help advance the next generation of targeted cancer therapeutics. This is a unique opportunity to contribute across multiple stages of drug development—from early-stage discovery and lead optimization to the development of robust, translatable assays that support clinical advancement of our growing therapeutic portfolio. The ideal candidate is a highly independent, hands-on scientist who thrives in a fast-paced biotech environment, has a diverse technical skillset suited to multiple aspects of early-stage drug development, and is willing to contribute across interdisciplinary roles.

Requirements

PhD in a relevant field (Biology, Bioengineering, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Pathology, etc.) or equivalent industry experience
Demonstrated hands-on expertise in IHC assay development and optimization
Proficiency in mammalian cell culture and cell-based functional assays
Experience with multi-color flow cytometry and microscopy
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex datasets and communicate findings clearly
Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a collaborative environment
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting data to cross-functional teams

Nice To Haves

Experience in oncology drug discovery or development, particularly in solid tumors
Familiarity with translational biomarker strategy and clinical assay validation
Familiarity with integrin biology, drug conjugates, and peptide-based therapeutics
Prior experience in a small biotech or startup environment with demonstrated adaptability

Responsibilities

Translational Biomarker Assay Development Design and develop immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays for target expression and biomarker analysis, with an emphasis on clinical translatability Establish robust protocols for IHC assay optimization, including antibody selection, antigen retrieval, and signal amplification
Early Discovery and Lead Optimization Develop, optimize, and execute in vitro assays to evaluate target engagement, potency, and selectivity of early pipeline candidates Apply flow cytometry, protein-binding assays, and cell-based potency assays to guide decision making on pipeline progression Participate in project teams to integrate in vitro findings with in vivo and translational data packages
General Scientific Contributions Independently plan and execute experiments, analyze data, and present results to key stakeholders in a clear and timely manner Maintain thorough, accurate experimental records Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports, regulatory documents, and presentations Ensure compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements