Scientist, In Vitro Pharmacology

About Arda

Traditional pharmaceuticals modulate individual proteins and signaling pathways, aiming to nudge tissues and organs back toward health. But cells - not proteins - are the functional units of diseased tissue, and their behavior is governed by redundant networks that single-target drugs struggle to change. Arda Therapeutics offers a groundbreaking alternative: we target cells, not pathways. By depleting specific pathogenic cells that drive chronic diseases such as fibrosis and inflammation, we shut down the entire network of dysfunction at once, rather than blocking one of many redundant nodes.

What makes this possible is an explosion of single-cell data. Arda's discovery engine integrates multi-modal single-cell, spatial, and genetic data to pinpoint pathogenic cell states and the surface markers that distinguish them from healthy cells with unprecedented precision. We engineer targeted biologics that eliminate only the harmful cells, sparing healthy tissue and opening the door to greater efficacy and episodic treatment. Backed by leading life-science and technology investors - and built by a team that blends computational biology, drug development, and cell-depletion expertise - Arda is defining a new domain of medicine for inflammatory and immunological diseases.

The Role

Arda is seeking an experienced, self-driven scientist to lead in vitro pharmacology projects focused on developing the next-generation of immune-targeting therapies. This individual will play a pivotal role in developing and executing in vitro / ex vivo immunological assays to assess the efficacy of our therapeutic assets, with a particular emphasis on multispecific immune cell engagers. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in cellular pharmacology, assay development, and large molecule drug screening within the biotech of pharma space. Candidates with previous experience in developing co-culture ADCC, TDCC, cell binding, signal blockings assays and experience working with primary immune cell types including t cells, b cells, nk cells, mast cells, macrophages, and whole blood culture will be prioritized. The ideal candidates will have a proven track record of assay development, large molecule screening, and independently leading projects while functioning as a core team representative. Title will be commensurate with experience.

This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the trajectory of our therapeutic programs and contribute to the advancement of innovative treatments. In addition to a competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits, we provide a flexible time-off policy to support work-life balance. You'll be part of an inclusive, world-class team committed to scientific excellence and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and perform cell based in vitro / ex vivo cell pharmacology assays to evaluate the function of therapeutic candidates, with a focus on multispecific immune cell engager antibodies.

• Characterize benchmarks and novel engagers across numerous assays for triaging and candidate selection.

• Coordinate efforts with protein science, in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo pharmacology, teams to drive programs from discovery through IND submission or partnering.

Qualifications

• Either a PhD in Pharmacology, Immunology, or a related biological science, with a minimum of 2 years of industry; or a master’s degree and 6+ years of relevant industry experience.

• Demonstrated expertise in immunology and inflammatory disease space with a focus on developing medium to high throughout in vitro /ex vivo model systems.

• Strong background in immunology and/or inflammation research with experience in primary immune cell isolation, characterization, culture and differentiation.

• Proven track record of contributing to multiple projects and documenting work using electronic notebooks (benchling).

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.

• Hands-on approach with a desire to independently drive experimental design and execution.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Join us and help pioneer a new era of precision therapies that change the course of chronic disease.