Frontier Medicines is seeking a highly motivated individual to fill the position of Director, In Vivo, Disease Biology to join our Disease Biology team. The Director, In Vivo Pharmacology will develop and implement a vision for the future of in vivo pharmacology at Frontier Medicines and will lead a team of in vivo pharmacologists developing in vivo oncology models. They will be evaluating the efficacy and PK/PD characteristics of our small molecule drug candidates, as well as making initial assessments of therapeutic index. Based in our South San Francisco facility and reporting to the Sr. Director, Disease Biology, and as the group leader for Pharmacology, you will join a dynamic team of Scientists and assume a leadership role in providing in vivo pharmacology expertise for the company and advancing small molecule drug discovery programs to the clinic.
What will you be doing?
Establish and direct in vivo strategy and oversee execution of in vivo pharmacology studies, including tumor model selection, study design, and data and tissue collection. Lead in vivo pharmacology strategy to successfully bring programs from in vivo target validation to the clinic. Oversee design, coordination, and implementation of pharmacology studies in support of projects including PK/PD and efficacy in CDX, PDX, syngeneic, and GEMM oncology models. These studies may occur within Frontier’s on-site vivarium or at select CROs. Collaborate with Frontier’s pre-clinical and translational Frontier scientists to plan and execute model development and pharmacology studies. Organize ex vivo analyses of tumor samples, including tissue harvesting and processing, analysis of analytes (e.g., protein analysis by western blot, IHC). Assume responsibility for a group of Scientists and Research Associates supporting in vivo pharmacology. Management and operation of Frontier’s state-of-the-art in vivo research facility and assets, including writing IACUC protocols, equipment maintenance, animal shipments, inventories, service contracts, and supplies. Develop standardized animal husbandry policies, protocols, training, and SOPs in collaboration with the consulting veterinarian and vivarium operations.What are we looking for? Ph.D. in a related field and a minimum of 10 years of combined postdoctoral research experience and/or in vivo experience in the biotech and/or pharmaceutical industry. Proven expertise in leveraging oncology models, such as CDX, PDX, syngeneic, orthotopic, metastatic, and GEMM/transgenic models, for drug discovery and development, demonstrating a track record of successful outcomes. Proficiency in a range of techniques, including tumor implantation and measurement, therapeutic administration (oral, intraperitoneal, intravenous), bleeding, euthanasia, tumor dissection, processing, and preservation in diverse rodent models. Experience integrating and analyzing target engagement and phenotypic biomarkers in various tissues, showcasing a deep understanding of oncology, drug discovery, applied pharmacology, and drug development. Strong ability to write detailed in vivo protocols and effectively direct the work of in vivo scientists, maintaining meticulous records of experimental procedures. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly and decisively. Demonstrated aptitude for training, managing, and mentoring junior scientists, fostering a collaborative and inclusive team environment. Extensive experience collaborating with external in vivo pharmacology service providers, ensuring seamless partnerships and high-quality results. Familiarity with small molecule drug discovery and IND reporting, possessing a solid understanding of regulations related to animal care in research. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and a team player, thriving in a dynamic start-up environment while remaining focused on delivering exceptional results. - Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Short Term & Long Term Disability
- Training & Development
- Free Food & Snacks
- Wellness Resources
- Stock Option Plan
At Frontier we strive to build a diverse and equitable workplace. The salary range for this role is $180,000 – $230,000. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including candidates' qualifications, skills, competencies and experience. Frontier offers a competitive total rewards package which includes healthcare coverage, 401k and a broad range of other benefits.
This compensation and benefits information is based on Frontier’s knowledge as of the date of publication, and may be modified in the future.