R&D Director

Role Summary : The Director of R&D – Drug Discovery will lead and oversee all aspects of early-stage drug development, from target identification to lead optimization and IND-enabling studies. This individual will play a critical role in shaping the research strategy, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring that drug candidates progress efficiently toward clinical development. Key Responsibilities : In terms of strategic leadership and program oversight, the Director will develop and execute a comprehensive drug discovery strategy that aligns with corporate objectives. They will lead multiple early-stage programs, from target validation through IND-enabling studies, identify and validate novel therapeutic targets and drug candidates, and establish key milestones and decision gates for advancing programs. For preclinical research and development, the Director will oversee in vitro and in vivo pharmacology efforts, including target engagement, mechanism of action studies, in vivo efficacy, safety, and PK / PD profiling, as well as disease model development and validation. They will guide medicinal chemistry, protein engineering, or other modality-specific optimization, and ensure the integration of AI / ML-driven approaches, automation, or high-throughput screening where applicable. In managing external partnerships and collaborations, the Director will handle relationships with CROs, academic partners, and biotech collaborators to accelerate R&D programs. They will scout and implement new technologies to enhance discovery efforts and engage with regulatory authorities, investors, and industry partners as needed.Cross-functional coordination will involve working closely with CMC, regulatory, and clinical teams to transition drug candidates into development, contributing to regulatory filings, including IND submissions and briefing packages, and maintaining compliance with industry regulations and best practices. In terms of team leadership and mentorship, the Director will build and lead a high-performing scientific research team, mentor junior scientists and research associates in experimental design and data interpretation, and foster a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, and innovation. Qualifications : The ideal candidate will have a PhD or MD / PhD in Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a related field, with over 10 years of experience in drug discovery and preclinical development, including at least 5 years in a leadership role. Technical expertise required includes a deep understanding of molecular and cellular biology, pharmacology, and disease biology, experience with in vivo models and translational science, and knowledge of GLP and regulatory requirements for IND-enabling studies. Familiarity with high-throughput screening, AI / ML-driven drug discovery, or computational biology is a plus. Soft skills needed for this role include strong strategic thinking, leadership, and team-building abilities, excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced startup or biotech environment.