Principal Scientist - Neuroscience

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About GondolaBio

GondolaBio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing next- therapeutics for genetic diseases. Originally launched as BridgeBioX, a subsidiary of BridgeBio, GondolaBio secured $300M in private financing from external investors in 2024 and became an independent company within the BridgeBio ecosystem. The company aims to leverage cutting-edge biological research to create breakthrough medicines addressing high unmet needs across multiple therapeutic areas, including neurology, pulmonology, cardiology, nephrology, and endocrinology. Located on the Stanford Life Sciences campus, GondolaBio fosters a unique hybrid environment where top scientists from around the world collaborate with senior leadership and advisors, blending industry expertise with academic innovation.

Who you are

We're seeking an entrepreneurial scientific leader who combines intellectual rigor with practical execution skills to advance our Neuroscience pipeline at GondolaBio. You will serve as the scientific lead for multiple preclinical neuroscience programs. You will play a pivotal role in designing, executing, and interpreting experiments. This position offers the opportunity to shape research strategy while mentoring junior scientists and contributing to a growing, interdisciplinary team.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

· Lead the design and execution of in vitro studies across multiple preclinical discovery programs in neurodevelopmental disorders

· Develop and optimize functional assays and neuronal models (e.g., iPSC-derived and primary cultures) to support SAR, MoA, target engagement, and efficacy assessments

· Perform and interpret molecular, protein, and functional analyses (e.g., qPCR, Western blot, MEA), integrating findings with in vivo and translational data

· Supervise and mentor junior scientists, fostering a high-performing and collaborative research environment

· Oversee external research activities, including CRO and academic collaborations, ensuring high-quality and timely data delivery

· Stay abreast of emerging science, engage with external experts, and represent the company at scientific meetings

· Communicate results and strategic insights to senior leadership; contribute to publications and IP

· Partner with leadership to shape and execute a cohesive research strategy that advances program objectives across discovery and translational stages

Education, Experience, & Skills Requirements

· PhD in Neuroscience or a related field with 4+ years of industry experience; strong publication record is a plus

· Therapeutic domain expertise in neurological diseases and experience with in vivo CNS disease models; experience in neurodevelopmental disorders is a plus

· Extensive experience with human iPSC-derived neuronal models and neurobiology-focused assay development

· Proficiency in qPCR, Western blot, MEA, and neuronal culture techniques

· Sound knowledge of disciplines involved in drug discovery (cell-based disease models, target engagement and target modulation assays, cell viability assays, biomarker discovery, PD/PK, and efficacy studies) and experience with small molecules, plate-based cellular and biochemical assays; experience with antisense oligonucleotides a plus

· Demonstrated ability to manage projects and lead junior team members

· Strong problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills

· Experience in biotech or pharmaceutical R&D

No matter your role at GondolaBio, successful team members are:

· Patient Champions, who put patients first and uphold strict ethical standards

· Entrepreneurial Operators, who drive toward practical solutions and have an ownership mindset

· Truth Seekers, who are detailed, rational, and humble problem solvers

· Individuals Who Inspire Excellence in themselves and those around them

· High-quality executors, who execute against goals and milestones with quality, precision, and speed

What We Offer

· Patient Days, where we are fortunate to hear directly from individuals living with the conditions we are seeking to impact throughout the year and learn how we can improve our efforts

· A culture inspired by our values: put patients first, think independently, be radically transparent, every minute counts, and let the science speak

· An unyielding commitment to always putting patients first.

· A de-centralized model that enables our program teams to focus on advancing science and helping patients. Our affiliate structure is designed to eliminate bureaucracy and put decision-making power in the hands of those closest to the science

· A place where you own the vision – both for your program and your own career path

· A collaborative, fast-paced, data-driven environment where we inspire ourselves and each other to always perform at the top of our game

· Access to learning and development resources to help you get in the best professional shape of your life

· Robust and market-competitive compensation & benefits package (Base, Performance Bonus, Equity, health, welfare & retirement programs)

· Flexible PTO

· Rapid career advancement for strong performers

· Potential ability to work on multiple GondolaBio Pharma programs across multiple therapeutic areas over time

· Partnerships with leading institutions

· Commitment to , Equity & Inclusion

Requirements: