Cell Biologist – Cancer Biology

Berkeley, CA
Full Time
Mid Level

Company Overview 

CatenaBio is a Berkeley-based biotech startup founded on research from the Francis and Doudna labs at UC Berkeley. We are developing next-generation antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) using a proprietary enzymatic conjugation platform that enables site-specific attachment of multiple payloads to antibodies targeting a wide range of cancer markers. Our approach allows for more customizable, potent, and precise cancer therapies. As a fast-growing company, we offer a collaborative, mission-driven environment with strong support for career development and merit-based advancement—regardless of background or educational path. Join us at the forefront of redefining how biologics are built and how patients benefit from breakthrough science. 

 Catena’s culture is grounded on the following values: 

  • Clear, Concise and Constructive Communication 

  • Diverse Backgrounds and Skill Sets 

  • Equality & Inclusion 

  • Keen Focus on Growth 

  • Accountability in All Actions 

  • Value in Collaboration 

  • Be a Force of Good in the World 

Our employees would be happy to speak with you during the interview process about what life at Catena is like. We are building a culture of transparency and trust. Please join us in this wonderful journey of revolutionizing targeted biotherapeutics using precision protein coupling technology! 

Position Summary 

CatenaBio is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Cell Biologist with hands-on experience in culturing and characterizing cancer cell lines. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in cell-based assays, cancer biology, and in vitro pharmacology. This role will support drug discovery and translational research by executing a variety of cellular and molecular assays to evaluate drug efficacy, mechanism of action, internalization, and bystander effects in cancer models. 

What You’ll Do 

  • Maintain, passage, and characterize human cancer cell lines under aseptic conditions. 

  • Design and run in vitro assays: proliferation, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, internalization, and migration/invasion 

  • Perform cell viability and metabolic activity assays (e.g., Alamar Blue) 

  • Conduct internalization studies for antibody or conjugate-based therapies 

  • Utilize flow cytometry for surface marker quantification, apoptosis, and cell cycle analysis 

  • Assess bystander effects in co-culture or conditioned media systems. 

  • Conduct high-content imaging and immunostaining 

  • Accurately document data in electronic lab notebooks and contribute to team discussions and reports 

  • Embrace workplace diversity in all its forms 

  • Contribute to multidisciplinary teams 

  • Meet project deadlines 

  • Thrives in a fast-paced environment and delivers high-quality results 

  • Ability to adapt to changing situations while providing ideas and solutions 

What You Bring 

  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, or related field (B.S. with 5+ years of experience also considered) 

  • Proven hands-on experience culturing a variety of cancer cell lines 

  • Solid understanding of: 

  • Alamar Blue and other viability/metabolic assays 

  • Internalization assays 

  • Flow cytometry, including surface marker analysis 

  • Apoptosis/cell cycle assays (Annexin V, PI, DAPI, EdU/BrdU) 

  • Bystander effect experiments 

  • Proven track record of problem-solving, data management, and meeting production goals while maintaining high quality standards. 

  • Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams 

  • Experience in the biopharmaceutical industry strongly preferred 

  • Strong data analysis, report generation and troubleshooting skills 

  • Ability to work independently and thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment 

Nice to Have 

  • Background in immunology, immuno-oncology, or T cell biology is a plus 

  • Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and DAPI nuclear staining 

  • Experience with T cell activation/proliferation assays (e.g., CFSE, CD69/CD25) 

  • Familiarity with 3D tumor spheroids or organoids 

  • Background in immuno-oncology or ADC development 

  • High-content imaging or automated microscopy 

Company Benefits: 

  • Medical, dental, vision, and 401K are all offered from day one of employment 

  • 14 days of paid time off annually + 11 paid holidays 

  • Commuter benefits (Bus/Bart/Uber/Lyft) 

  • Floating holidays to provide flexibility 

  • Generous 401K (up to 5%) match 

  • Equity package 

  • Stock refreshes 

  • Vacation: 1 week pre-loaded of vacation time, 3 weeks maximum per calendar year. 

  • Opportunity to enter early into a rapidly expanding biotherapeutics company with high potential to advance into senior positions as the company expands. 

  • Parental leave 

  • Leadership competencies for performance and development 

Compensation: 

Salary will range between $100,000 to $130,000 with an equity package based on the candidate’s experience and the current market value of Catena’s shares. 

Catena Biosciences is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you may submit your request by sending an email and confirming your request for accommodation and include the job number, title, and location to [email protected]. This option is reserved for individuals who require accommodation due to a disability. 

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