Associate Director/Director - Biology (Oncology Drug Discovery)

3w3 weeks ago

Iambic Therapeutics

San Diego, US · Full-time · $187,000 – $260,000

About this role

Iambic Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Associate Director or Director to lead oncology drug discovery efforts. Advance the core mission of accelerating small molecule drug discovery through experimental and AI/ML-driven approaches. The role drives programs from hit identification to IND submission at San Diego headquarters.

Set scientific direction and drive cross-functional collaboration with Chemistry, DMPK, Safety, and Computational teams. Partner with computational and ML scientists to incorporate AI/ML-based tools for data interpretation, hypothesis generation, and decision-making. Influence portfolio strategy and progression in a high-impact capacity.

Lead project teams, chair cross-functional workstreams, and oversee assay strategy aligned with SAR hypotheses, DMPK/PD needs, and safety biomarkers. Manage collaborations with internal and external partners, including CROs for assay execution and validation. Ensure data integrity, reproducibility, and compliance with SOPs.

Grow and develop a team of scientists and associates through goal-setting, feedback, and talent development. Drive stage-gate criteria, risk mitigation, and decision memos presented to governance. Opportunity to shape oncology programs with scientific creativity and rigorous standards.

Requirements

PhD in pharmacology, biochemistry, cell biology or related field with 12+ years of relevant industry experience in small molecule discovery or Master’s Degree with 15+ years of experience
Demonstrated success leading cross-functional project teams advancing programs from hit identification toward IND, with ownership of decision criteria and milestone delivery
In-depth knowledge of oncology molecular pharmacology with specific expertise in characterizing mechanism of action, potency, and efficacy of hits and leads
Experience with critical drug discovery assay formats (e.g. biochemical/cell potency, cell-based target engagement, proximity assays such as HTRF, alphaLISA, nanoBRET)
Experience designing, validating, and transferring assays to CROs/automation/HTS platforms; familiarity with HTS methodologies and counter-screens
Proven ability to guide resolution of high-impact technical issues across functions; track record of scientific creativity and rigorous data standards
Strong people management skills: mentoring scientists, performance management, and building inclusive, high-trust teams
Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Responsibilities

Initiate, direct, and execute biology plans that support medicinal chemistry and translational goals across discovery stages (hit-to-lead, LO, candidate selection, IND-enabling)
Chair or co-lead cross-functional workstreams; align assay strategy with SAR hypotheses, DMPK/PD needs, and safety/translational biomarkers
Lead or co-lead key scientific collaborations with internal and external partners, driving integration of data and strategy
Conceptualize and oversee the design and validation of in vitro and ex vivo assays enabling potency, selectivity, and efficacy assessments
Manage and mentor CROs/partners; scope statements of work, timelines, budgets, and deliverables
Manage and grow a team of scientists/associates; set goals, provide feedback, and develop talent
Drive stage-gate criteria, risk registers, and mitigation plans; author decision memos and present to governance/leadership