Director, Pharmacology & Translational Science

Director, Pharmacology & Translational Science

Company Overview

Cogent Biosciences is a publicly traded biotechnology company dedicated to developing precision therapies for genetically defined diseases. By leveraging validated biology and a rational drug discovery approach, Cogent aims to create real solutions that address the underlying drivers of disease and offer meaningful hope to patients.

Our lead therapeutic candidate, bezuclastinib, is a highly selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor designed to target KIT D816V and other mutations in KIT exon 17, known drivers of systemic mastocytosis (SM) and advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). The SUMMIT trial in patients with Non‑AdvSM achieved statistical significance across all primary and key secondary endpoints, and Cogent is on track to file its first New Drug Application for this population by the end of 2025.

Additional trials (APEX, PEAK) and a Phase 1 study of an internally discovered FGFR2 inhibitor are ongoing, while the Research Team develops novel targeted therapies against mutations in ErbB2, PI3Kα, and KRAS.

Our culture of inquisitiveness fuels continuous learning and innovation; we challenge assumptions, ask bold questions, and embrace a mindset of discovery to uncover transformative insights.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced pharmacologist to lead our in‑vivo research and translational pharmacology efforts in oncology drug discovery and development. This in‑person leadership role is based in Boulder, CO, and oversees a team of 5–10 scientists and research associates. The successful candidate will drive strategy, collaborate cross‑functionally to advance novel therapeutics toward the clinic, and lead non‑clinical regulatory filings.

• Lead and mentor a team of pharmacologists conducting in‑vivo oncology studies.
• Serve as pharmacology lead on cross‑functional project teams, contributing to program strategy and decision‑making.
• Contribute to new target identification and validation.
• Collaborate with internal teams (research, translational medicine, clinical, med affairs) and external partners to support drug discovery and early development.
• Guide development and implementation of new models, technologies, and workflows to enhance translational relevance.
• Present data and recommendations to senior leadership and external stakeholders.
• Lead non‑clinical pharmacology regulatory efforts, report writing, and filings.

• Familiarity with small molecule and/or biologics development.
• Experience with CRO management and external collaborations.
• Experience with IACUC and vivarium management.

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, or related field, with 15+ years of industry experience in oncology drug discovery and development.
• Proven leadership experience managing scientific teams and in‑vivo pharmacology groups.
• Deep expertise in rodent models of cancer, including xenograft, syngeneic, and genetically engineered models.
• Strong understanding of PK/PD relationships and translational pharmacology.
• Hands‑on experience with regulatory filings.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, collaborative biotech environment.

$220,000 – $250,000 USD

Target Bonus: 20%

• Waltham, MA – Boston office with open‑office layout, on‑site parking, and gym facilities.
• Boulder, CO – State‑of‑the‑art research facility; CEO based full‑time, home of Cogent’s discovery research organization.

We offer a generous benefits package that includes competitive pay, performance‑based bonus, stock options, comprehensive insurance coverage (health, dental, life, disability), competitive time‑off, a 401(k) plan, and commuter/parking benefits.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our goal is to have a diverse workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or disability, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.