Director / Senior Director, Drug Discovery & Target Identification (LNP-mRNA Platform)

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a high-performing discovery team to identify, interrogate, and validate novel target pathways, successfully enriching the early-stage therapeutic pipeline.
• Drive the expansion of our established LNP-mRNA discovery platform from rare disease indications into broader, more common disease areas.
• Champion the integration of next-generation technologies, advanced biostatistics, and cutting-edge AI tools to streamline target discovery and optimize complex digital workflows.
• Formulate rigorous biological hypotheses, identify translational preclinical models that accurately recapitulate human pathology, and successfully advance programs from target discovery toward candidate selection.
• Partner seamlessly with platform chemistry, formulation, and preclinical development teams to accelerate the progression of novel LNP-mRNA-based candidates.
• Manage complex program timelines, align internal and external stakeholders, and leverage excellent negotiation and interpersonal skills to establish realistic, high-impact program plans.

Position Requirements

• PhD in Biology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline. 12–15+ years of progressive experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, with a primary focus on drug target identification, validation, and early-stage preclinical drug discovery.
• Proven Track Record: Demonstrated success as a "Drug Hunter" with a history of leading teams that have successfully advanced novel targets or modalities into clinical development.
• Advanced Computational Literacy: Deep familiarity with using next-generation discovery technologies, predictive modeling, and AI applications to accelerate target identification and drug development workflows.
• Portfolio Management: Extensive experience managing a diverse discovery portfolio across multiple therapeutic areas (including both rare and common diseases).
• Pharmacology & Translational Science: Strong command of classical pharmacological principles, with hands-on experience designing and interpreting in vitro and in vivo pharmacology studies, identifying translational biomarkers, and utilizing pharmacodynamic endpoints.
• Matrix Leadership & Collaboration: Proven success managing multidisciplinary research teams in a matrixed environment and establishing productive academic and industry collaborations.
• Executive Communication: Exceptional ability to translate complex biological concepts into clear, actionable business strategies for leadership, partners, and investors.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with mRNA therapeutics, RNA-based medicines, or lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery platforms.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Full range of health benefits, including Medical, Dental & Vision, with options for Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
• Competitive salaries and bonus plans, plus equity via Stock Options
• Free variety of snacks and beverages
• Health and Wellness programs
• $100 Anniversary cash awards with opportunity to increase to $2000!
• Company-sponsored FUN events