Vice President, Translational Research

Company Overview
Rhythm is a global, commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to transforming the lives of patients and their families living with rare neuroendocrine diseases. We develop medicines for previously untreatable or undertreated diseases and provide meaningful support for healthcare providers and patients and their families. We recognize the courage it takes for patients and their caregivers to begin their journey of advocacy to find the answers they need.

Their courage inspires us to challenge convention, ask bold questions and seek answers for them. Every day, we strive for excellence through our willingness to adapt, learn, and our tenacity to overcome barriers, together.

Opportunity Overview
Rhythm Pharmaceutical is seeking a Vice President, Translational Research to provide strategic and scientific leadership across all non-clinical functions, including small molecule preclinical development, clinical pharmacology, and exploratory biology. This senior leadership role will be responsible for shaping and executing the non-clinical strategy to support the advancement of our pipeline of small molecule therapies for rare neuroendocrine diseases.

In addition to overseeing non-clinical development, this VP will lead exploratory biology initiatives to deepen understanding of asset mechanisms of action, identify new indication opportunities, and guide lifecycle management and pipeline expansion strategies. A strong translational perspective is essential, ensuring that non-clinical insights are effectively integrated into clinical development plans and inform decision-making across the portfolio.

As a key member of the R&D leadership team, this individual will serve as a thought partner and close collaborator with the Chief Scientific Officer to define the company’s long-term scientific vision and strategy. The role requires extensive cross-functional engagement with senior leaders in clinical development, regulatory affairs, data sciences, and commercial functions to ensure alignment of scientific priorities with corporate objectives.

The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in obesity, metabolism, and neuroendocrinology, with a strong track record in rare disease drug development.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Provide strategic leadership for all non-clinical functions, including toxicology, clinical pharmacology, and exploratory biology.
• Drive exploratory research initiatives to elucidate mechanisms of action, identify new therapeutic opportunities, and inform lifecycle management strategies.
• Ensure a translational approach to research, integrating non-clinical and clinical insights to optimize development strategies.
• Partner closely with the CSO and executive leadership to shape overall scientific strategy and ensure alignment with corporate objectives.
• Collaborate with senior leaders across clinical development, regulatory affairs, data sciences, and commercial to drive cross-functional decision-making.
• Oversee the design, execution, and interpretation of non-clinical studies supporting IND, early clinical development, and regulatory submissions.
• Represent non-clinical research in regulatory interactions and contribute to the preparation and review of submission documents.
• Build and mentor a high-performing team, ensuring scientific excellence and operational rigor.
• Stay abreast of emerging science and regulatory trends to maintain a competitive edge in rare disease and neuroendocrine drug development.

Qualifications and Skills

• Ph.D., M.D., D.V.M., or equivalent in Pharmacology, Toxicology, Biology, or related discipline.
• 15+ years of experience in pharmaceutical or biotechnology R&D, with significant leadership responsibility in non-clinical development.
• Experience of early stage clinical development
• Track record of successful IND and NDA filings
• Demonstrated expertise in obesity, metabolism, and neuroendocrinology; experience in rare disease drug development strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to translate non-clinical findings into clinical strategy and influence portfolio decisions.
• Deep understanding of regulatory requirements for non-clinical development and experience engaging with global health authorities.
• Exceptional ability to influence, collaborate, and communicate across all levels of the organization.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams in a matrixed environment.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for innovation and patient impact.
• Strong scientific curiosity and ability to translate emerging biology into actionable development strategies

This role is based out of our corporate office in Boston, Massachusetts. Rhythm operates in a hybrid-work model. Candidates applying must be willing and able to be in the Boston office in coordination with their department and business needs. This role may involve some travel.

The expected salary range for this position is $260,000- $360,000. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, level, qualifications, geographic location, and other…