Head of Early Discovery

Role Summary

The Head of Early Discovery leads strategic initiatives to accelerate drug discovery using cutting-edge technologies, data-driven decision-making, and innovative scientific approaches. This role shapes the early discovery pipeline, identifies and validates novel targets, and translates programs into later development stages, with support for partnerships. The successful candidate will combine deep scientific expertise with visionary leadership to drive patient-impact therapies. Location: Salt Lake City, UT (hybrid; in-office at least 50%).

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the early discovery strategy aligned with company objectives.
• Champion modern methodologies, including AI and computational approaches, to enhance decision-making and streamline workflows.
• Effective communication and clear decision making.
• Foster a culture of urgency and patient-centric innovation.
• Lead and inspire a multidisciplinary, international team of scientists and research associates.
• Manage cross-functional collaborations with internal teams and external partners, including academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies and key opinion leaders.
• Oversee target identification, validation, and mechanism-of-action studies, with a strong focus on oncology and immunology. Expertise in other disease areas is desirable.
• Working with the Head of Translational Strategy, support translation of early stage programs into the broader portfolio including preclinical and early clinical development stages.
• Implement high-quality, efficient, data-driven decision-making processes to prioritize assets and allocate resources effectively.
• Spearhead initiatives to integrate advanced cellular and biochemical technologies, functional genomics platforms and fit-for-purpose screening systems.
• Embrace novel approaches to accelerate discovery, validate targets effectively, and ensure programs are data driven.

Qualifications

• Required: 10+ years of postdoctoral experience in oncology and immunology. Additional disease area experience is a plus.
• Required: Proven track record in target identification, validation, and translation into later stages of drug discovery. Experience advancing programs from early discovery through IND enabling studies.
• Required: Demonstrated ability to embrace and implement modern technologies (e.g., AI) in drug discovery.
• Required: Strong strategic thinking and commitment to scientific rigor.
• Required: Exceptional communication and leadership skills.
• Preferred: Early-stage clinical program involvement for a holistic view of drug development.
• Preferred: Expertise in contemporary small molecule discovery; experience with other modalities is a bonus.
• Preferred: Familiarity with immunology/immuno-oncology and/or other disease areas.

Education

• PhD in Biology or related discipline.

Skills

• Strategic leadership
• Effective communication
• Data-driven decision making
• Experience applying AI and computational approaches in drug discovery
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Scientific rigor