Senior Scientist II, Biological Sciences

Role Summary

We are seeking a collaborative and self-driven Senior Scientist II, Biological Sciences to join our oncology drug discovery team. This role will play a key part in advancing small molecule therapeutics for cancer by driving discovery programs, designing innovative assays, and working closely with cross-functional research partners. The ideal candidate will bring deep scientific expertise, creativity, and a passion for translating biology into impactful therapies. This role is onsite in our Lawrence KS office.

Key Responsibilities

Drug Discovery & Research Leadership

• Design and conduct rigorous experiments to identify and validate novel drug targets using state-of-the-art approaches (e.g., multiomics).
• Develop and optimize biochemical and cellular assays for small molecule therapeutics.
• Partner with biologists, chemists, and external collaborators to progress discovery programs.
• Document, analyze, and interpret results in ELN and LIMS systems.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Biomarker Development

• Work with leadership to explore and advance translational biomarkers.
• Collaborate across disciplines to move early-stage drug discovery forward.

Scientific Leadership & Mentorship

• Mentor junior scientists and foster a culture of collaboration.
• Stay current on scientific and technological advancements in oncology.
• Present research findings through reports, presentations, and publications.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with 3+ years of biotech/pharma drug discovery experience, OR
• BS/MS in related field with 10+ years of biotech/pharma drug discovery experience.
• Strong hands-on skills in molecular and cell biology techniques.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex experiments independently.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and data analysis skills.

Preferred Experience

• Contemporary oncology drug discovery expertise.
• Strong publication record and/or conference presentations.

Deciphera is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The base salary pay range for this role is $103,00-$142,000. Actual compensation packages will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to depth of experience, education, skillset, overall performance and/or location.​

Deciphera believes in providing a competitive compensation and benefits package to all employees. Our base salary is just one component of Deciphera’s competitive total rewards strategy that also includes annual performance bonus, a long-term incentive plan, full range of benefits and other incentive compensation plans (if applicable)

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and annual bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan with company match, and more.
• Generous parental leave and family planning benefits.
• Outstanding culture and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Apply Now: Join us in our mission to improve the lives of people with cancer. Apply today to become a part of our dynamic team!

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY INFORMATION

Deciphera is committed to equal employment opportunity and values diversity. To ensure that we comply with reporting requirements, we invite you complete the confidential survey at the end of this application. Providing this information is optional. It will not be accessible or used in the hiring process, and has no effect on your opportunity for employment. This information will also be treated confidentially.  We are committed to make all hiring decisions and other employment decisions on a non-discriminatory basis.