Senior Director, Nucleic Acid Therapy

Role Summary

Senior Director, Nucleic Acid Therapy leading research to advance delivery of nucleic acid–based therapeutics. Focus on ligand-mediated extrahepatic delivery and nucleic acid chemistry, with emphasis on siRNA/ASO platforms and multiple ligand platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of cross-functional scientists, provide guidance and mentorship, foster a collaborative work environment.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to leverage approaches for receptor and ligand identification, chemistry optimization, and implementation in drug discovery.
• Work with team to execute research plans, collect and interpret data, troubleshoot, and define next steps.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (medicinal chemists, computational scientists, molecular and cellular biologists, pharmacologists) to drive integrated drug discovery projects from target selection to lead optimization and delivery of clinical candidates.
• Stay current with advancements in nucleic acid chemistry and delivery, and integrate new technologies and methodologies into the drug discovery process.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines, maintain accurate records, and promote a culture of scientific rigor and integrity within the team.

Qualifications

• Established reputation with a strong track record in driving nucleic acid drug discovery programs; industry experience preferred.
• Extensive experience with nucleic acid drug discovery is highly desirable.
• Experience managing scientific teams, performance management, career development, and fostering innovation and inclusion.
• Demonstrated innovation in science, leadership, and ability to inspire and motivate drug discovery teams.
• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Extensive experience interfacing with internal and external stakeholders to collaborate and execute on research programs, deliver results, and influence decisions.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

Education

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in chemistry, biochemistry, or related field with 11+ years of experience, including at least 5 years of team management.
• Master’s degree with 15+ years of relevant experience, or
• Bachelor’s degree with 20+ years of relevant experience.
• Extensive experience in pharmaceutical/biotechnology or leading biomedical research settings with a proven track record.