Senior Scientist, Stem Cell-Derived Tissue Models (Contract)

About the role

Amgen's Predictive Biology team is looking for a Senior Scientist on a contract to develop and validate biologically relevant models of human tissue using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) or primary human tissue. The focus is on validating tissue architecture, cellular composition, differentiation state, maturation and functional relevance so the models fit discovery and translational research.

Key responsibilities

• Develop human stem cell-derived models that represent tissue biology and allow disease-versus-normal comparisons.
• Differentiate stem cells into diverse tissue-relevant cell types.
• Build complex model systems such as organoids, assembloids, co-cultures, matrix-supported cultures or other multicellular tissue-like systems.
• Optimize culture conditions, media composition, growth factor cues, extracellular matrix conditions, differentiation timing and co-culture parameters.
• Validate model fidelity using readouts of cell identity, tissue architecture, maturation and tissue-specific function.
• Document protocols, experimental designs, validation data and decision criteria clearly and reproducibly.
• Communicate results, limitations and technical risks to cross-functional teams through written reports and oral presentations.

Required profile

• Basic qualification: PhD with 2+ years of experience, MSc with 5+ years, or BSc with 8+ years.
• Preferred: PhD with 2+ years of postdoctoral and/or industry experience in stem cell biology, developmental biology, tissue engineering, cell biology, bioengineering, molecular biology, organoid biology or a related discipline.
• Hands-on experience culturing and differentiating stem cells across relevant model systems.
• Experience validating tissue architecture with methods such as immunostaining, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, high-content imaging or functional assays.
• Experience optimizing media, growth factors, extracellular matrix conditions, differentiation timing and co-culture conditions.
• Familiarity with adult stem cell-derived organoids, Lgr5-positive stem cell biology, niche-factor-dependent epithelial systems, normal organoids or patient-derived organoid platforms is preferred but not required.
• Demonstrated scientific productivity through peer-reviewed publications and patents.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills in a multidisciplinary team.

What we offer

• Salary range in Canada of 115,503 to 156,269 CAD.
• Total rewards plans aligned with local industry standards.
• Recognition as one of LinkedIn's Top 25 companies in Canada for career growth.