Director, Immunology - San Diego, CA

Summary

We seek a motivated, detail-oriented Director, Immunology with strong background in immunology / cell biology and experience developing cell-based assays to support our efforts in target validation, early phase antibody drug discovery, IND-enabling studies, and biomarker discovery. The ideal candidate is an individual that enjoys a fast-paced and dynamic work environment, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively to support project goals and objectives.

The role will require deep scientific and therapeutic-area expertise in Immunology, thorough familiarity and experience with the principles of drug development to ensure compound transition along the pipeline, management experience, and importantly the ability to work with ambiguity and embrace uncertainty. The role will demand critical, timely, independent decision making and requires a high degree of autonomy.

This leader must have scientific excellence in Immunology with a rich understanding of drug development, leadership, management skills to direct a group of individuals, and excellent communication and collaboration skills to deliver on the therapeutic area strategy.

Responsibilities

• Lead immunology and cell biology strategy for target validation, mechanism-of-action characterization, and biomarker discovery across the portfolio.
• Design, develop, and oversee cell-based assays, including primary human immune cell and ex vivo disease-relevant models, to support target validation and antibody candidate characterization.
• Direct immunological support for early-phase antibody drug discovery, including target engagement, functional potency, and selectivity assays.
• Drive the immunology and pharmacology components of IND-enabling studies, including biomarker strategy and translational assay development.
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing immunology team, including hiring, performance management, and professional development.
• Manage CROs and external collaborators supporting immunology assay development, biomarker studies, and related outsourced work.
• Partner cross-functionally to align immunology strategy with program timelines and milestones.
• Apply immunology and inflammation expertise to inform lead optimization and clinical candidate selection decisions.
• Present data, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and governance committees to support portfolio and go/no-go decisions.
• Track emerging immunology science, technologies, and the competitive landscape in IBD and autoimmune disease to inform program strategy.

Experience and Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent post-graduate degree in Immunology or related field with 12 years or more of experience in academia and relevant biotech and/or pharmaceutical industry.
• Prior biotech and/or pharmaceutical industry experience in discovery and translational immunology within the autoimmunity and inflammation space is required.
• Prior people management experience required.
• Prior experience leading project teams and managing CROs/vendors.
• Experience in drug discovery with proven leadership of preclinical development of therapeutic project(s) and clinical candidate selection is a requirement.

Skills and Abilities

• Self-starter with strong scientific curiosity and rigor, excellent interpersonal and analytic skills, high ethical standards, and outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• A desire to be part of a highly innovative, dynamic, and growing company aimed at developing novel therapeutics for patients.
• Demonstrable ability and enthusiasm for identifying, setting, and meeting critical deliverables, delivering clinical candidates into development.
• Track record of developing efficient discovery processes and leading complex cross-functional team collaborations, including managing relationships with internal and external collaborators.
• Proven track record of advancing programs through discovery, IND-enabling studies, and IND filing.
• Ability to build strong relationships with key stakeholders.

The expected base pay range for this position is $170,000 - $225,000 plus bonus, equity, and comprehensive benefits. The base pay range reflects the target range for this position, but individual pay will be determined by additional factors such as job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. This range may be modified in the future.

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