Lexeo is seeking a hands-on in vivo pharmacologist to build rodent models of cardiac disease and use them to de-risk targets, screen therapeutic candidates and advance our discovery pipeline. The scientist will design, perform or manage rodent studies from target validation through hit identification, working cross-functionally with In Vitro Pharmacology, Modality Engineering, and Translational Sciences to select-advance molecules. Reporting to the Head of Cardiac Research, this role joins cardiac, neuroscience, and non-clinical scientists developing therapies for genetic heart disease and offers broad experience in multidisciplinary biopharma research.
Primary Responsibilities
Design and execute in vivo studies that de-risk novel targets, using genetic knockdown/overexpression and tool molecules to test target–phenotype links
Outsource or internally establish rodent cardiac disease models, including transgenic lines and surgical models such as TAC and MI
Run therapeutic screening studies that rank candidates on efficacy, dose-response, durability, and identify hit molecules for advancement
Dose by multiple routes (IV, IP, SC, IM, PO, retro-orbital) and by osmotic minipump across longitudinal studies
Lead study takedowns: necropsy, blood and tissue collection, and processing for histology, molecular, and ex vivo endpoints, including Langendorff cardiac dissociation
Partner with Translational Sciences to establish bioanalytical methods for biodistribution and target engagement in rodent tissues, and align on models with clinical endpoints/biomarkers
Analyze, interpret, and present data to project teams; keep study records in the ELN in line with IACUC and animal welfare standards
Manage study logistics, manage budgets, flag capacity or timeline risks early, and ideate novel methods for pharmacology and physiology
Required Skills and Qualifications
PhD in physiology, pharmacology, cardiovascular biology, or a related field with 0–3 years of postdoctoral or industry experience; or MS with 5+ years of industry experience
Hands-on rodent experience: handling, multi-route dosing, blood collection, survival surgery, and necropsy
Track record using rodent disease models for target validation or efficacy testing of molecules
Proven understanding of power analyses, methods of randomizing animal models and appropriate uses of statistical methods
Strong data analysis skills (e.g., GraphPad) and clear written and verbal communication
Organized and independent; able to run several longitudinal studies at once within a collaborative team
Ability to regularly work onsite at HQ in New York City
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
Industry experience in a small, fast-paced biotech is highly preferred
Working knowledge of qPCR/ddPCR for vector/mRNA, ELISA/LC-MS for ASO, RNAscope/IHC for tissue localization, WB/ ELISA/MSD for protein detection
Hands-on echocardiography in mice and rats (e.g., Vevo)
ECG and blood pressure telemetry implantation and analysis in mice and rats (e.g., Ponemah)
Cardiac surgical models (TAC, MI) and invasive hemodynamics (PV-loop)
Demonstrated experience with models of neurodegenerative disease, particularly ataxia or cerebellar disorders, including execution and interpretation of rotarod, gait analysis, balance beam, grip strength, and longitudinal behavioral studies
In vivo experience working with and advancing AAV or oligonucleotide therapeutics
Experience selecting and evaluating CROs to perform animal studies
AALAS certification or equivalent
Lexeo Therapeutics is a New York City-based, clinical stage company dedicated to reshaping the path of genetic disease. By advancing pioneering science, Lexeo seeks to set a new standard in the treatment of cardiovascular and neurological genetic diseases, charting the path to patient outcomes once thought out of reach. The Company is advancing a portfolio of therapeutic candidates designed to address the underlying genetic causes of disease, including LX2006 for Friedreich ataxia (FA), LX2020 for plakophilin-2 (PKP2) arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, and others in devastating diseases with high unmet need.
LEXEO Therapeutics is an EEO employer committed to an exciting, diverse, and enriching work environment.
