Scientist – Innovation Lab

About the Role

Tarsus Pharmaceuticals is seeking a skilled and innovative Scientist to join our Innovation Lab team. This role will be instrumental in designing, executing, and analyzing preclinical experiments for internal innovation programs towards the creation of disruptive, new category-creating eye care pipeline programs for Tarsus, as well as helping to operationalize our new in-house laboratory facilities.

The individual will manage external research collaborations with CROs and academic partners while conducting hands-on experiments in our internal laboratory facility. This scientist will work closely with the rest of the Innovation Lab team to translate unmet needs into viable therapeutic strategies across multiple ophthalmology disease areas. The ideal candidate brings scientific versatility, strong project management skills, and the ability to transform research objectives into actionable experimental plans.

Let’s talk about some of the key responsibilities of the role:

• Execute experimental protocols for various testing methods including phantom model testing, cell/tissue culturing, and ex vivo experimentation
• Manage ongoing communications and coordinate activities with external partners (CROs, academic labs) under the strategic guidance of the Sr. Scientist
• Coordinate with external partners on in vivo ophthalmology models for efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity studies
• Conduct basic science and clinical literature reviews to support ongoing projects
• Analyze and summarize experimental data for internal team meetings and present findings to the Innovation Lab team
• Provide scientific opinion and support for cross-functional initiatives as requested
• Perform general lab duties, with the potential to take ownership of specific duties as the team expands
• Stay current with scientific and medical literature in relevant therapeutic areas

Factors for Success:

• PhD in a scientific field required, OR MS with 3+ OR BS with 5+ years life sciences experience
• Experience executing preclinical studies, with expertise in in vitro techniques and cell/tissue culture
• Experience working on projects involving external research collaborations is a plus
• Strong analytical skills for interpreting complex data, with ability to clearly communicate scientific findings
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently while aligning with strategic objectives
• Experience with standard laboratory upkeep and maintenance is preferred
• Scientific ophthalmology experience highly preferred

A Few Other Details Worth Mentioning:

• The position will be based in our beautiful Irvine office, complete with a courtyard, snacks, drinks, and occasional catered meals. We provide a hybrid work environment
• We are passionate about our culture! Our Tarsans live our values of commitment to patients, empowerment to champion innovation, and teamwork to amplify impact!
• This position will report directly to the Sr Scientist, Innovation Lab
• Some travel may be required – up 30%

At Tarsus, we understand the importance of attracting and retaining top talent. The expected base pay range for this position is $97,500 - $136,500 plus bonus, stock equity, and comprehensive benefits. The base pay range reflects the target range for this position, but individual pay will be determined by additional factors such as job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. Our benefits include health, dental and vision insurance benefits to ensure your well-being. We believe in work-life balance and offer generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days. For more details regarding Tarsus benefits, please visit: https://eb.alliant.com/26tarsusbenefitssnapshot.

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