Bioactivity Assay Development Consultant (Remote, Part-Time)

About the role

We are looking for a senior‑level Bioactivity Assay Development Consultant to provide strategic and technical guidance to NIH drug discovery programs, including the HEAL Initiative and the Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Program. This remote, part‑time position supports the design, optimization, and validation of bioassays that drive non‑addictive therapeutic development.

Key responsibilities

• Evaluate existing bioactivity assays and recommend optimization strategies aligned with medicinal chemistry campaigns.
• Define milestones for assay validation and oversee their execution.
• Advise on design and interpretation of in‑vivo cognitive and behavioral assays.
• Identify assay‑related challenges and propose realistic, timeline‑driven solutions.
• Support lead optimization, IND‑enabling, and early clinical development activities.
• Participate in Lead Development Team meetings (teleconference) and prepare related deliverables.
• Collaborate with NIH staff, CROs, and external consultants on investigative studies.

Required profile

• Advanced degree (PhD or equivalent) in a scientific discipline.
• 15+ years of assay development experience in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Extensive background in automated technologies, robotics, and cellular assay platforms.
• Proven track record leading or senior‑level involvement in drug discovery projects.
• Strong ability to work with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.

Required skills

• Assay development
• Automated technologies
• Robotics
• Cellular techniques
• In‑vivo assay design and interpretation
• Lead optimization
• IND‑enabling activities
• Preclinical safety assessment