Head of Biology and Pharmacology

We are seeking a Head of Biology and Pharmacology to help us discover and develop small molecule therapies based on a first in the industry genome scale drug discovery platform. This position has the unique opportunity to both create and implement a strategy that will make a major impact in our mission - ending the era of untreatable disease. The Head of Biology and Pharmacology will lead in vitro and in vivo characterization of novel small molecules to support our growing pipeline.  S/he will also be responsible to help build Totus Medicines’ biology and pharmacology team in Emeryville, California. The successful candidate will be a confident leader with extensive prior success in translational drug development, preferably in oncology. Experience leading and working within multi-disciplinary drug discovery and preclinical development teams is preferred. Strong leadership skills including scientific and strategic management, team building and clear communication to key stakeholders is required. You will lead a group of highly talented scientists working closely with the Platform Screening and Medicinal Chemistry teams to advance new therapeutics focusing on hard-to-drug oncology targets. 

In this role you will:

• Define and execute the company’s discovery biology and pharmacology strategy
• Direct the in vitro characterization efforts of pipeline program compounds.  
• Direct preclinical in vivo efforts to characterize the activity and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) properties of pipeline program compounds from discovery into IND enabling studies 
• Work closely with the company’s SAB and other key stakeholders to advance our pipeline programs.
• Build, lead and manage a high-performing group of talented scientists
• Perform research and development in cross-functional collaboration for projects in a range of potential indications
• Communicate, as appropriate, efforts and progress to internal and external parties
• Sets vision and direction through resource allocation decisions for the biology and pharmacology team.
• Develops and implements strategic plans and objectives for the biology and pharmacology team in alignment with corporate strategy; oversees direction and approves tactical administrative or operational policies and resource allocation decisions to ensure achievement of objectives

Requirements:

• Ph.D. or equivalent degree in biology or related discipline with 12+ years of industry experience and an excellent track record
• Scientific leadership experience coordinating research teams working concurrently on multiple projects
• Experience in oncology and other therapeutic areas (e.g., immunology, metabolic disease, cardiovascular disease, neurology, or orphan diseases)
• Successful track record of guiding drug discovery programs.  In particular, experience with multiple targets and a class-based approach is desired
• Prior experience leading or working within collaborations involving external academic, biotechnology, and contract research organizations