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Stanford University

Sr. Research Scientist (3 Years Fixed-Term)

Closes:

Salary: $105,000 – $125,000 per year

635

Situated in a highly dynamic research environment within Stanford University School of Medicine and the Stanford Cancer Institute, the Gray Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated Sr. Biologist (Research Scientist) to initiate, manage, and advance collaborative projects focused on developing experimental cancer therapeutics. The successful candidate will be a highly creative and motivated scientist who wants to make scientific breakthroughs and help train the next generation of translational scientists.

The position involves supervising and mentoring a group of approximately 10 trainees using biochemistry, cell biology, structural biology and chemical biology to advance cancer therapeutics projects. Active projects entail extensive collaboration with medicinal chemists in the Gray laboratory designing and synthesizing candidate therapeutic and experimental small molecules. Research responsibilities will include planning and designing projects, identifying and optimizing new assays, establishing and maintaining data reporting standards for the group, and developing group-wide expertise in emerging areas of interest. Many projects are highly collaborative both internally and externally (other Stanford labs and across institutions), and the successful applicant will be a strong communicator and will help to manage these collaborative relationships. The candidate will contribute new capabilities to long-term efforts in the laboratory and will play a crucial role in major developments in the discovery of novel chemotherapeutics.

The Research Scientist will lead collaborative projects focused on developing experimental cancer therapeutics. The role involves supervising and mentoring approximately 10 trainees while utilizing biochemistry, cell biology, structural biology, and chemical biology. The successful candidate will manage research projects, collaborate with medicinal chemists, and establish data reporting standards, contributing to the discovery of novel chemotherapeutics and fostering relationships with other Stanford labs and Institutions.

Duties include*:

  • Oversee experiments, researchers, and maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • Plan experiments in support of research projects based on knowledge of scientific theory.
  • Contribute to publication of findings and grant applications. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
  • Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
  • Oversee facility maintenance as needed; maintain instrumentation, related consumables stocks.
  • Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.
  • Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures.

*Other duties may also be assigned.

Qualifications:

REQUIRED:

  • Ph.D. in biological sciences.
  • Five years relevant post-Ph.D. experience and a strong publication track-record.
  • Expertise and demonstrated experience in project and people management.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Excellent problem solving, written and oral communication skills.

DESIRED:

  • Previous chemical biology laboratory experience.
  • Basic systems administration skills (NFS, database management, intranet connectivity and security).

WORK STANDARDS (from JDL):

  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

The expected pay range for this position is $105,000 to $125,000 per annum.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford's extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Job details

Title
Sr. Research Scientist (3 Years Fixed-Term)
Employer
Stanford University
Location
Stanford, CA, United States
Published
Sep 15, 2026
Closes:
Nov 14, 2026
Job type
Full time, Academic / Faculty, Biology
Field
Cancer Research
Salary

Salary: $105,000 – $125,000 per year

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications do I need for this Senior Research Scientist role?

This Senior Research Scientist role requires a Ph.D. in biological sciences and at least five years of post-Ph.D. experience. You will also need a strong publication track-record, demonstrated project and people management skills, and excellent written and oral communication. Desired qualifications include chemical biology laboratory experience and basic systems administration skills. Tailor your application with the free resume template and free cover letter template.

🔬What does the Gray Laboratory research focus on?

The Gray Laboratory at Stanford University School of Medicine and the Stanford Cancer Institute focuses on developing experimental cancer therapeutics. The lab uses biochemistry, cell biology, structural biology, and chemical biology to design and optimize candidate therapeutic small molecules. Learn more about research scientist jobs or explore oncology research scientist opportunities at US universities.

📝How do I apply for this Stanford research position?

Submit a tailored academic CV and cover letter through the Stanford careers portal before November 14, 2026. Highlight your post-Ph.D. research experience, publication track-record, and expertise in cancer therapeutics. Review how to write a winning academic CV and research scientist interview questions and tips.

💰What is the salary and benefits package?

The expected pay range is $105,000 to $125,000 per annum. Stanford University also provides a comprehensive benefits and rewards package through the Cardinal at Work website. Actual pay offered depends on qualifications, departmental budget, internal equity, and market comparators. Browse more faculty jobs or university jobs to compare compensation.

⏳Is this a fixed-term or permanent research scientist position?

Yes, this is a 3-year fixed-term appointment. The role involves supervising and mentoring approximately 10 trainees while managing collaborative experimental cancer therapeutics projects. For guidance on succeeding in fixed-term research roles, see postdoctoral success strategies.

🤝What career development opportunities does this role offer?

This position offers a chance to lead collaborative cancer research at a top medical school, contribute to the discovery of novel chemotherapeutics, and help train the next generation of translational scientists. You will work closely with medicinal chemists, internal Stanford labs, and external institutions. Explore related postdoc jobs and research jobs.

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Stanford University Jobs

Stanford University

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AcademicJobs.com is the premier platform to discover Stanford jobs, connecting talented professionals with exceptional career opportunities at one of the world’s most prestigious and innovative universities. Stanford University, located in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley, is globally renowned for its groundbreaking research and academic excellence, making Stanford Uni jobs highly sought after by academics and professionals worldwide. Stanford University careers offer a dynamic and collaborative environment for individuals to excel. Stanford University university careers span a diverse range of disciplines, reflecting the university’s key areas of academic specialization, including computer science, engineering, medicine, humanities, and business. Employment Stanford University includes roles such as professors, research fellows, lecturers, and professional staff positions, catering to various expertise levels. For those pursuing Stanford jobs California, the university’s iconic campus provides a vibrant workplace in a hub of innovation and technology. Stanford Uni vacancies and job postings are showcased on AcademicJobs.com, where candidates can explore opportunities in teaching, cutting-edge research, and administrative roles. Jobs at Stanford University cover fields like artificial intelligence, biomedical research, and sustainable energy, aligning with the university’s mission to address global challenges and drive societal impact. Each Stanford University vacancy is an opportunity to contribute to transformative initiatives within a world-class academic community. Stanford University Employment Opportunities are extensive, with Stanford University job Opportunities ranging from academic faculty to technical and operational roles. A Stanford University Career offers the chance to join an institution that values interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, and global leadership. Stanford Uni openings are regularly updated on AcademicJobs.com, ensuring access to the latest Stanford University vacancies. Jobs at Stanford Uni are ideal for those passionate about advancing knowledge and shaping the future. Stanford University job postings include positions in law, environmental science, and professional services such as IT and research administration. Stanford University Employment through AcademicJobs.com connects talented individuals with Stanford Uni vacancies, providing a seamless pathway to join a leading institution driving global progress and innovation.

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