Head of Program Biology & Pharmacology

We seek a Head of Program 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. This role will lead in vitro and in vivo characterization of novel small molecules to support our growing pipeline. 

You will also be responsible to help build Totus Medicines’ biology and pharmacology team in Emeryville, California. You are a confident leader with extensive prior success in translational drug development, preferably in oncology. Experience leading and working within multidisciplinary 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 teams to advance new therapeutics focusing on hard-to-drug oncology targets.

In this role you will:

• Define and execute the company’s Program 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 Program 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
• A strong desire to help shape a sustainable culture where we uphold the Totus Values: Agility, Laser Focus, Collaboration, Humility and Sense of Urgency
• This position is an onsite role (Emeryville, CA)

Salary Range (annual):  $232,900 - $300,500