Senior Principal Scientist, Discovery Biology

Senior Principal Scientist, Discovery Biology

Do you want to transform your expertise in linking disease biology to therapeutic targets into tangible impact — and help drive discovery projects at the frontier of RNA medicine? Join us as
Senior Principal Scientist, Discovery Biology
at our research facilities in DTU Science Park, Hørsholm.

Who we are

Contera Pharma, founded in 2010, is a Danish biotech company developing RNA-based therapies that target the root causes of neurological disorders. We apply our RNA therapeutics platform to discover and develop new treatment options for patients with serious unmet medical needs.

At Contera, you will be part of a diverse and growing team where every role matters — whether in the lab, supporting operations, or advancing projects. We value professionalism and scientific rigor, but also pride ourselves on an open, collaborative atmosphere that fosters curiosity, new ideas, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Your impact at Contera Pharma

In this role, you will apply your extensive experience in drug discovery to bridge disease biology with target and therapeutic opportunities. You will be central in shaping projects by translating biological insight into hypotheses, models, and assays that guide RNA therapeutic development.

You will work closely with colleagues across biology, chemistry, bioinformatics, and external partners to ensure programs remain decision-oriented, translational, and aligned toward the clinic. You will act as a scientific partner to the CSO and project leads, and play a key role in defining the biological rationale that underpins our discovery strategy.

Your primary responsibilities

As Senior Principal Scientist, Discovery Biology, you will:

• Link disease biology to molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets, providing the scientific rationale that drives RNA drug discovery.
• Drive discovery-stage projects by designing, executing, and interpreting studies that directly inform project decisions.
• Ensure use of disease-relevant models, assays, and biomarkers to maintain translational focus.
• Critically assess complex datasets, separating signal from noise, and translating findings into actionable therapeutic strategies.
• Collaborate with colleagues, CROs, and partners to keep programs progressing efficiently toward the clinic.

The ideal candidate

You hold a PhD in molecular biology, neuroscience, genetics, or a related field, and bring 10+ years of experience in pharma or biotech drug discovery. Your primary motivation is in advancing science and programs.

We imagine you are someone who:

• Has a proven track record of shaping discovery research through deep biological insight and translational thinking.
• Understands how to link disease biology with therapeutic targets and translate this into impactful drug discovery strategies.
• Brings an impact-oriented mindset, focused on what drives decisions and moves projects forward.
• Is skilled at working across disciplines and with external partners, with excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Has experience with RNA therapeutics (advantage, not requirement).

What we offer

A focused and agile biotech environment where experiments are designed to drive decisions, not academic detours. The opportunity, as a senior individual contributor, to influence project direction and shape our discovery strategy through deep biological insight. A collaborative, ambitious culture where impact matters more than hierarchy. And flexibility in how we work, while recognizing that this role is primarily onsite and closely engaged with the team.

Our benefits include:

• A full-time role at our research facilities at DTU Science Park, Hørsholm.
• A role aligned with your experience and strengths, with salary based on your qualifications.
• Health insurance, five weeks of vacation, plus up to five additional days off (feriefridage).
• A subsidized lunch scheme, fresh fruit, and shared breakfasts on Mondays.
• Social traditions such as our summer party and annual Christmas lunch.

Apply now

The deadline for applications is
October 31, 2025
. The hiring manager for this position is
Chief Scientific Officer Søren Rasmussen
.

Please submit your application directly via LinkedIn. Upload only one file that includes your CV, a list of publications, and a short cover/motivation letter explaining your interest in and fit for the role.

We encourage everyone to apply — regardless of gender, age, background, or identity. We believe diverse perspectives are key to strong innovation and a better workplace.

We look forward to hearing from you