Senior Principal Scientist

Oxford Biotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focusing on the development of antibody therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. OBT’s OGAP-verify® platform is the world's largest, cancer specific, membrane protein library, directly measuring plasma membrane protein expression in patient tumors. OGAP is used to identify novel, highly tumor specific antigens for novel first-in-class ADC, T-cell Engager (TCE) and Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR-T) targets. Our lead asset, OBT076, is an Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Phase 1b clinical development. Our clinical and pre-clinical pipeline of novel biologics is balanced between internal programs, focused on ADCs and checkpoint regulators, and externally partnered programs with key innovators in oncology such as Roche, GSK, and Zymeworks.

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Job Description

We are seeking a motivated Sr. or Principal Scientist to join the Histopathology Lab within the Target Validation team in San Jose, CA. The role involves independently designing, troubleshooting, and executing histopathology workflows to evaluate oncology targets, and presenting findings to teams and partners.

You will support target validation through IHC, IF, ISH, slide scanning, image analysis, and assay optimization, with a strong focus on IHC assay development, antibody screening, tissue processing (FFPE/FF), sectioning, and tissue-based assay implementation. Hands-on histology and oncology knowledge is required.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize chromogenic IHC assays using FFPE/FF samples; confirm specificity using orthogonal methods (e.g., ISH).
• Lead histopathology support for cancer target programs, including materials management, hands‑on lab work, mentorship of junior staff, and timeline delivery.
• Present results, gather feedback, and implement next steps.
• Use literature and public datasets to guide assay development and target validation.
• Process tissues and cell pellets into FFPE/frozen blocks; section and stain samples using Leica Bond autostainers.
• Digitize slides, analyze results, and document data in ELN and presentations.
• Perform routine lab tasks: sample archiving, equipment maintenance, consumables ordering, logistics.
• Support tissue database and digital data organization.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• PhD +4 years, or Master’s +6 years, or Bachelor’s +8 years or more of hands‑on experience working in histology and IHC related labs, preferably supporting cancer research in an industry setting.
• Extensive (>3 years) hands‑on experience developing, utilizing, and interpreting immunohistochemistry assays against novel protein targets, using both single and multiplex IHC techniques primarily on FFPE sample slides.
• Extensive (>3 years) hands‑on experience in laboratory histology, including preparation of tissue samples into FFPE and FF blocks, preparation of cell pellet control blocks, cryostat and microtome sectioning, troubleshooting chromogenic IHC and
• ISH experiments, and independently identifying appropriate next steps in the development of robust, sensitive and specific tissue biomarker assays.
• Experience with Leica Bond autostainers and reagents relevant to optimizing new IHC assays, typically chromogenic assays.
• Experience with microscope slide scanners for brightfield and fluorescent imaging, and general experience utilizing whole-slide image analysis software such as HALO.
• Collaborate effectively in a matrix‑managed organization to drive advancement of early‑stage projects into translational and clinical development.
• Be relied upon as a technical expert in the IHC field; provide guidance to colleagues and collaborators, and mentorship to more junior lab colleagues.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• Knowledge in cancer biology, immuno‑oncology, and tumor histopathology are each a plus.
• Strong track record of developing and implementing strategic initiatives to improve scientific and/or operational activities.
• Relevant experience working with service providers and CROs in the histology space.
• Excellent organization skills, and evidence of previous success in a growing and fast‑paced work environment.
• Experience regularly presenting IHC assay results in group settings.
• Top candidates will be collaborative and team oriented, creative problem solvers, resilient to change, and interested in learning opportunities.
• Experience with cell culture and related molecular biology assays (WB/ELISA/etc.) are additionally a plus.

Benefits Offered

• Medical, dental and vision insurance for employee and dependents
• FSA (Flexible Spending Account)
• STD, LTD, Basic Life and AD&D Insurance, Supplemental Life
• 401(k) Plan
• 120 hours of Paid Time Off
• 5 sick days per year
• 11 holidays
• Employee Referral Bonus Program

OBT is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, marital status, and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. One of our top priorities is to maintain the health and wellbeing of our employees and their families. To achieve this goal, we offer comprehensive benefits.