Director, DMPK

POSITION SUMMARY

Position Title:

Director, DMPK

Reports to:

Executive Director, DMPK

Status:
Regular, Full-time, Exempt

Location:

South San Francisco, CA

Summary:

We are seeking an experienced, creative, and highly motivated expert with industry research experience in DMPK focused on small molecule lead optimization for discovery research programs, preclinical and clinical drug development. In addition to overseeing a group of external professionals, this position will be responsible for leading DMPK interactions with medicinal chemists to facilitate the identification of molecules meeting criteria for clinical development and support preclinical and clinical development.

• Supervising a group of external DMPK scientists supporting research and development programs.
• Providing scientific guidance on chemical lead optimization programs and work in close collaboration with medicinal chemists to optimize the DMPK properties of candidate drugs.
• Closely interacting and effectively communicating with individual research and development groups.
• Ensuring complete preclinical DMPK assessment for clinical‑stage candidate molecules.
• Understanding routes of elimination, levels and identity of circulating metabolites and toxicology coverage as needed.
• Supporting CTA and IND filings and contributing to clinical development for clinical candidates.
• Performing PKPD modeling for discovery and development projects.
• Managing scientific/technical aspects as well as related studies including protocol development, budget, timelines, oversight of outsourced activities, data analysis/interpretation, and report writing.

This job description outlines the primary duties and responsibilities of the role; however, it is not intended to be all‑inclusive. The scope of responsibilities may be modified, expanded, or adjusted at the discretion of the organization to meet evolving business needs.

• PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, or related discipline with 10+ years of pharmaceutical industry experience. In lieu of a PhD, candidates who possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with additional industry experience will be considered.
• A strong background in ADME and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics as applied in small molecule lead optimization.
• Exceptional knowledge of metabolic routes of biotransformation, metabolite identification and the chemistry of drug metabolism.
• Demonstrated technical knowledge and industrial experience in multiple DMPK areas and an in‑depth understanding of the experimental DMPK methodologies and approaches, in vitro and in vivo, utilized in chemical lead optimization.
• Ability to work with multiple disciplines in drug discovery and provide exceptional guidance to medicinal chemists in the lead optimization process.
• Ability to conduct innovative research in DMPK applied to the discovery of novel drug candidates to achieve defined milestones in a fast‑paced environment.
• Extensive knowledge of preclinical drug development and experience in the preparation of regulatory documents such as INDs and NDAs, with strong organizational and communication skills.
• Self‑motivated with a track record of productivity, demonstrated leadership potential, and effective interpersonal skills.
• Preferred candidate would also have experience and knowledge in Clinical Pharmacology.

Pay Range: $228,000 - $252,100 annually.

As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to diversity and inclusion and will not tolerate discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.