Principal Scientist/Associate Director, Biology

Role Summary

Principal Scientist/Associate Director, Biology at Disc Medicine — a hybrid role with the flexibility to work remotely and from the headquarters in Watertown, MA. You will lead discovery projects for biologics, design and oversee in vitro and in vivo studies to advance our discovery pipeline, and communicate updates to cross-functional teams. This role spans discovery and development stages with opportunities for professional growth.

Responsibilities

• Provide scientific leadership in planning, execution, and interpretation of data across multiple biologics discovery programs.
• Critically evaluate scientific literature, synthesize novel hypotheses, and design rigorous experimental strategies to test them.
• Drive development and characterization of animal models to support research across diverse disease indications.
• Design and oversee in vivo pharmacology studies to assess PK/PD, efficacy, and mechanism of action of drug candidates.
• Support identification, characterization, and selection of lead molecules to advance pipeline programs.
• Collaborate in evaluating and selecting external partners to support in vitro and in vivo research activities.
• Communicate project progress and key findings effectively in cross-functional meetings, ensuring alignment with timelines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Foster a collaborative and accountable team culture, with a strong emphasis on scientific excellence and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 10–12 years of related work experience with at least 5 years in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical research industry.
• Extensive experience in biologics discovery, including fusion proteins and multispecific antibodies.
• Strong background in developing and characterizing in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models, with deep knowledge of disease biology, pathogenesis, and mechanisms of action.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically and independently, propose innovative scientific approaches, and apply strong analytical and problem-solving skills to complex biological questions.
• Hands-on expertise in in vivo animal studies.
• Experience working with contract research organizations (CROs) is preferred.
• Outstanding communication skills—both written and verbal—with the ability to thrive within a collaborative work environment.

Skills

• Biologics discovery expertise, including fusion proteins and multispecific antibodies
• In vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo model development and characterization
• In vivo pharmacology, PK/PD assessment, and mechanism of action analysis
• Strong data interpretation, scientific writing, and cross-functional communication
• Leadership and collaboration in multidisciplinary teams
• Experience with contract research organizations (CROs) is preferred

Education

• Ph.D. in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.