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Crinetics Pharmaceuticals

Engaged employer

Incredibly toxic - Research Scientist Crinetics Pharmaceuticals Employee Review

1.0
11 Aug 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

They do great science and have super smart people on board. I really think they'll be scientifically successful. They allow dogs on site and it's at a great location.

Cons

The most toxic work environment I've ever experienced. Zero work/life balance, 10+ hr workdays are the norm including weekends. Extremely competitive within departments, resulting in unwillingness to help out coworkers and a backstabbing culture. Research should be done as a team and the best ideas come forward in a supportive and collaborative environment. The opposite is the case at Crinetics, and although they do amazing research this toxicity might actually be the downfall of the company.

Explore other reviews about Crinetics Pharmaceuticals

5.0
20 Mar 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Deep pipeline gives stability in an industry that can see companies vanish overnight when their single program gets mixed results. Outstanding science from in house discovery consistently brings new development candidates to bear. Kind people throughout the company. Good equity offerings for new and existing employees.

Cons

Continuing maturity for the organization brings the challenges you would expect in a company that is growing rapidly. Lots of "firsts" for the company.

1.0
24 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Smart team, you can bring your dog to the office

Cons

The biggest issue is the leadership culture. There is a significant amount of politics, particularly within the HR organization. Leadership often appears more focused on protecting territory and controlling information than fostering collaboration and transparency. This creates division within teams and discourages open discussion or healthy disagreement. The company would benefit from more experienced and confident leadership at the executive level. Too many decisions seem driven by personal dynamics rather than business needs, which leads to inconsistent priorities and organizational churn. The overall environment feels chaotic. Priorities change constantly, often with little explanation, making it difficult to execute meaningful long-term initiatives. Teams frequently shift focus from one "urgent" project to another, resulting in a lot of rework and limited progress on strategic objectives. Despite having ambitious goals, the company is extremely cost-conscious to the point where it can feel penny-wise and pound-foolish. There is often reluctance to invest in the people, systems, and processes necessary to support sustainable growth. If you enjoy structure, clear direction, and strong leadership, this may not be the right environment. If you thrive in ambiguity and are comfortable navigating politics, you may find opportunities to succeed.

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