We are seeking a candidate who has a broad understanding of Lentivirus biology and engineering. This candidate is expected to demonstrate a passion for innovative scientific research leading to the discovery and development of novel Lentivirus vectors to target cell populations in the lung for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The successful candidate is a technical expert on all aspects to Lentiviral vector design, including selection, molecular biology, biochemistry, viral production and purification. Excellent collaboration and communication skills are required to advance the Lentiviral technology in collaboration with external partners. The successful candidate is expected to lead and implement the Lentiviral research strategy in close collaboration with CMC, AAV vector technology, lung biology, preclinical and clinical development. Experience with other gene therapy delivery technologies, such as AAV vectors, and gene editing technologies (CRISPR, TALEN) is a plus.
The candidate will lead a team of scientists with the primary goal to advance Lentiviral technology for the discovery of next generation Lentiviruses for the treatment of respiratory diseases. The candidate will be responsible for implementing the research strategy, as well as providing scientific leadership and direction for junior scientists. The candidate will inspire, develop, and critically evaluate research that results in novel discoveries for the implementation of respiratory gene therapies. The ability to generate and lead numerous parallel discovery projects, while focusing on promising avenues for novel insights into improved Lentiviral vectors for novel gene therapies, is essential.
Strong leadership skills are required. Previous industry experience with a record of effective project leadership is a plus. The successful candidate should be able to work productively in a matrix team environment. Excellent written, oral, presentation and interpersonal skills are important.
A summary of the responsibilities includes:
Identifies, leads and directs Lentivirus technology research aligned
with the research strategy of the company.
Motivates and inspires a group of talented scientists.
Provides leadership, supervision, scientific and technical mentoring and support to research scientist and research associate direct reports.
Collaborates with R&D and Nonclinical Development leadership to ensure that Research focus areas and prioritization are aligned with R&D and company objectives.
Communicates strategies, data, priorities and results across the organization.
Initiates, maintains and manages external research relationships with academic and industry partners.
Collaborates with R&D leadership to ensure gene therapy products meet therapeutic target needs.
Identifies, supports and manages talent; provides real-time feedback to direct reports for performance management and career development.
Regularly communicates results to project teams and senior leadership; prepares presentations, reports, patent filings and external communications as required.
At Spirovant, the successful candidate will be a highly creative leader and problem solver, who thrives in a “get it done” type of environment. (S)he will have the following mix of personal and professional characteristics:
PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline.
Lentivirus technology research experience required, cystic fibrosis research experience highly desirable.
8+ years of experience post PhD, with preferably at least 5 years of experience in an industry setting
Demonstrated record of success with strong publication record.
Prior experience supervising scientific staff.
Strong experience with Lentiviral technologies, including molecular biology techniques, gene therapy technologies, molecular cloning, protein expression and purification and mammalian cell culture.
Experience with gene editing technologies is highly desireable.
Self-starter and strategic thinker with a demonstrated ability to drive innovation.
Leading a project to completion or championing a technology initiative is preferred.
Clear communication skills in writing and presentation is required.
Team oriented, highly motivated, execution focused with strong work ethic, ability to thrive in an entrepreneurial and multidisciplinary environment.
Flexible, collaborative and responsive to scientific, technical and business opportunities and needs.