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Discovery Biology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You will directly lead our discovery biology and pharmacology teams, while also serving as the accountable leader for 1-2 drug-discovery matrix project teams from product concept through IND. As a ...

Scientist, Biology

Foster City, CA ยท On-site

$146K - $189K/yr

Every member of Gilead's team plays a critical role in the discovery and development of life ... We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist, Biology to support pharmacokinetic (PK) bioanalysis ...

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Discovery Biology information

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How much do discovery biology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for discovery biology in the United States is $39.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.53 and $48.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Discovery Biology vs Research Scientist?

AspectDiscovery BiologyResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Life Sciences, or related fieldsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in relevant scientific disciplines
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, pharmaceutical or biotech companiesAcademic labs, industry R&D, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharma, research institutions focusing on early-stage discoveryBroader research roles across industries, including applied and basic research

Discovery Biology roles typically focus on identifying new biological targets and understanding biological processes in early-stage research, often within biotech and pharmaceutical companies. Research Scientists have a broader scope, conducting experiments across various stages of research, including applied and translational studies. Both roles require strong scientific backgrounds, but Discovery Biology is more specialized in initial discovery phases.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in discovery biology, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Discovery Biology often face challenges such as rapidly evolving scientific technologies, interpreting complex biological data, and coordinating across interdisciplinary teams. Staying updated with the latest research and methodologies is crucial, as is developing strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with chemists, data scientists, and pharmacologists. Additionally, managing multiple projects and adapting to shifting priorities are common; successful professionals are proactive, flexible, and committed to continuous learning.

What is discovery biology?

Discovery Biology is a field within the life sciences that focuses on identifying and understanding new biological targets, pathways, and mechanisms that can be used to develop new drugs or therapies. Scientists in Discovery Biology use a variety of techniques, including genomics, proteomics, cell-based assays, and animal models, to explore disease biology and validate targets. Their work is often the first step in the drug discovery process, providing crucial insights that guide subsequent medicinal chemistry and pharmacology efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a discovery biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Discovery Biologist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and pharmacology, typically supported by an advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in a life science field. Familiarity with laboratory automation, high-throughput screening platforms, and data analysis software such as GraphPad Prism or Spotfire is common. Critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills help you effectively design experiments and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are essential for advancing drug discovery projects and translating scientific findings into therapeutic innovations.
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Cities with the most Discovery Biology job openings:

What states have the most Discovery Biology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Discovery Biology jobs include:

Infographic showing various Discovery Biology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,075 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Director Business Development- Discovery Services

Frontage Laboratories

Exton, PA โ€ข On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Title: Director of Business Development – Discovery Services

Location: Home based in West Coast (Bay area)

Reports to: Executive VP

Full-time

Frontage Laboratories Inc. is an award winning, publicly listed (HKSE), full-service CRO/Contract Research Organization operating over 25 state-of-the-art laboratories across the US, Canada and China, and growing and expanding rapidly. Our core competencies cover all aspects of drug discovery and development, including medicinal chemistry, discovery biology, DMPK,), safety and toxicology, CMC and API manufacture, laboratory testing services and early clinical trials.

Position Summary

This position will support our rapidly growing integrated drug discovery services with medicinal chemistry, discovery biology, ADME/PK and IND-enabling services. This is a remote business development position to facilitate expansion of Frontage’s drug discovery services in the US, Canada, and China. Position involves developing and maintaining long-term valued business relationships from both existing and the new customers. This role will initially focus on developing and fostering strong relationships with the biopharma and biotech companies on the entire West Coast of US and Canada.

Roles & Responsibilities

  • Meet or exceed sales objectives for assigned region.
  • Solicit and develop new business opportunities through direct selling, referrals, trade shows, conferences, meetings etc.
  • Meet or visit existing and former customers periodically to reaffirm satisfaction and identify new and expanding opportunities with positive client engagement.
  • Develop new business plans for existing customers as well as potential new customers.
  • Promptly respond to new BD leads and coordinate with internal support teams.
  • Qualify, pursue, negotiate, and close new opportunities.
  • Identify decision-makers and areas of service needs.
  • Keep accurate records of calls, meetings, and other activities (call reports) in CRM.
  • Develop and maintain an up-to-date pipeline of new business opportunities.
  • Assist with preparing proposals, quotes, and customer contracts.
  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of all services offered for potential cross-selling opportunities.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education, Experience & Skills Required

  • Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related scientific discipline; A Ph.D. degree is preferred.
  • 6-10 years of related experience in the biotech, pharma or preclinical CRO industry.
  • Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated success in sales or project management in drug discovery divisions (e.g., Chemistry, Discovery biology, and DMPK) of a biopharmaceutical or a CRO company.
  • Business development with a history of sustainable growth is a must.
  • Solid knowledge of small molecule drug discovery, lead optimization and IND candidate selection.
  • Ability to assess leads, value of new business, craft recommendations through effective written and oral presentations, work with scientific and marketing teams, and close deals.
  • Excellent communication, organization, and planning skills.
  • Very strong work ethic
  • Able to travel up to 30%

Frontage Laboratories Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.