Principal/ AD Translational Scientist

Description

About GondolaBio

GondolaBio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing breakthrough therapeutics for genetic diseases. GondolaBio is an independent sister company to BridgeBio, originally carved out in 2024 after securing $300M in private financing from external investors. GondolaBio aims to leverage cutting-edge biological research to discover, create, test, and deliver transformative medicines to treat patients who suffer from genetic diseases. 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

A translational scientist who bridges discovery and early clinical development, designing and implementing biomarker and pharmacodynamic (PD) strategies that inform decision-making in IND-enabling and Phase 1/2 studies. Hands-on and execution-focused, with a track record of turning preclinical hypotheses into fit-for-purpose assays that perform in the clinic. Scientifically rigorous and detail-oriented, with a strong foundation in biochemistry and assay development. A collaborative, pragmatic communicator who partners across discovery, development, and external teams to deliver high-quality, decision-ready data, and who can clearly articulate experimental rationale, assay performance, and clinical relevance.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Lead translational biomarker strategy for IND-enabling and Phase 1/2 programs, translating preclinical hypotheses into clinical assay plans with a focus on target engagement and PD.
• Direct the design, development, qualification/validation, and implementation of assays that support clinical endpoints and mechanistic understanding, ensuring scientific rigor, feasibility, and regulatory alignment.
• Oversee assay-related activities conducted by CROs, including protocol review, data quality assessment, and troubleshooting.
• Author and review regulatory documents supporting clinical development.

Preferred Education & Experience (Qualifications)

• PhD or MS in translational sciences, pharmacology biochemistry, bioanalytical science, or a related discipline.
• 8+ years of relevant industry or translational research experience.
• Hands-on experience developing or implementing biomarker strategy and assays supporting IND submission and Phase 1/2 programs.
• Working knowledge of bioanalytical principles, biomarker assay validation guidelines, and clinical sample workflows.
• Demonstrated ability to manage external partners and communicate effectively in cross-functional environments.

Nice-to-Haves

• Experience working in a biotech or fast-paced clinical development environment.
• Enzymology experience, such as enzyme kinetics, mechanism-of-action characterization, or development of enzyme activity assays to measure target engagement and PD.
• Expertise with multiple assay formats (e.g., ligand-binding, molecular, cell-based, and enzymatic activity assays).
• Experience contributing to regulatory submissions involving nonclinical pharmacology, biomarker, or assay component.
• 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 decentralized model that enables our program teams to focus on advancing science and helping patients.
• 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 support career growth.
• Robust and market-competitive compensation & benefits package.
• Flexible PTO.
• Rapid career advancement for strong performers.
• Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

The base pay range for this position is $200,000 to $225,000 per year. The actual compensation offered will be determined based on a number of job-related factors, including experience, skills, qualifications, and location. A bonus plan and equity will also be offered.

GondolaBio ServiceCo is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. Employees of BridgeBio and all affiliated companies should work through their managers to inquire about and learn more about this role.