Sr​/Director of Biology Discovery

We are seeking a highly accomplished Director or Senior Director of Biology to lead biological strategy and execution from target identification through IND-enabling studies
, with a strong preference for candidates experienced in dermatology, skin biology, or topical drug development
. This role will provide scientific leadership across discovery and early development programs, guiding multidisciplinary teams to translate innovative biology into differentiated clinical candidates.

The successful candidate will combine deep biological expertise with strategic vision, strong leadership, and a proven track record of advancing programs toward the clinic.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead biology efforts across multiple programs from target identification, validation, and mechanism-of-action studies through IND-enabling activities
• Define and drive biological strategy aligned with therapeutic area goals, with emphasis on skin biology, dermatology, and/or topical delivery
• Partner with Chemistry, DMPK, Toxicology, Translational Medicine, and Clinical teams to ensure seamless progression of programs
• Serve as a scientific thought leader, contributing to portfolio strategy, target prioritization, and go/no-go decisions
• Design and oversee in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models relevant to dermatology and skin diseases
• Guide development of robust pharmacology packages, including efficacy, biomarker, and translational strategies
• Ensure biological rigor and reproducibility of data supporting candidate selection and IND submissions
• Oversee external collaborations, CROs, and academic partnerships as needed
• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team of scientists and research leaders
• Foster a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, accountability, and innovation
• Provide clear direction, career development, and performance management for direct reports
• Present program data and strategy to executive leadership, governance committees, and external stakeholders
• Contribute to regulatory documents, including INDs
  , investigator brochures, and scientific publications
• Represent the company at scientific meetings and within external collaborations

Qualifications

• PhD (or equivalent) in Biology, Immunology, Pharmacology, Dermatology, or a related life sciences field
• 10+ years (Director) or 12–15+ years (Senior Director) of industry experience in drug discovery and early development
• Demonstrated success advancing programs from target identification through IND
• Strong background in skin biology, dermatology, inflammatory skin diseases, barrier biology, or topical drug development
• Proven leadership experience managing and developing scientific teams
• Deep understanding of translational biology and early clinical relevance

Preferred

• Experience with topical or dermal delivery modalities (small molecules, biologics, or novel platforms)
• Track record of IND submissions and/or compounds entering clinical development
• Experience working across multiple therapeutic areas within dermatology (e.g., inflammatory, autoimmune, genetic, or infectious skin diseases)
• Publications, patents, or external scientific recognition in relevant fields