We are currently seeking a highly motivated and talented Group Leader of Drug Discovery Biology. This individual will be a key team member in the organization co-leading cross functional teams to advance projects from target validation through preclinical development to clinical proof-of-concept studies, in collaboration with MD Anderson researchers. The ideal candidate should have deep knowledge of cancer biology, strong translational science skills, and a proven track record of successfully leading multi-disciplinary small molecule teams from target validation through early clinical development in a biotech or pharmaceutical environment. Building on our unique model of drug discovery, the group leader will work closely with academic and clinical collaborators to integrate innovative biology with clinical research data to position IACS small molecule assets for clinical success. As a member of our R&D leadership team, this individual will play an essential project leadership role and will be empowered to provide strategic input to guide portfolio management decisions.

By joining the Therapeutics Discovery Division, you have the opportunity to use your talents to make a direct impact on the lives of our patients. Join us, and lead our next program from concept to clinic.

KEY FUNCTIONS:

1. Lead target and translational biology efforts on multiple IACS drug discovery projects, leveraging resources from cross functional areas, to deliver compelling translational data sets to advance IACS drug discovery programs into clinical proof-of-concept trials in distinct patient populations.

2. Serve on the R&D Leadership team, providing strategic insight to influence IACS portfolio strategy.

3. Plan and execute the translational research strategy for one or more targets, inform on target mechanism of action, and explore translational hypotheses.

4. Apply knowledge of pharmacology and biomarker development to enable in vivo assessment of chemical matter and establish pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and efficacy relationships.

5. Coordinate, direct and lead a team of successful internal scientists, and collaborative relationships and alliances with internal and external partners to drive innovation and influence the IACS portfolio.

6. Contribute to project team through lab based activities.

7. Resource projects in a flexible manner, including efficient use of outsourcing.

8. Secure the intellectual property rights, including drafting of patent applications.

9. Complete the necessary documentation for IND- and other regulatory filing, and for any due diligence or licensing activities.

10. Represent the Therapeutics Discovery Division externally through presentations at key National/International meetings.

11. Proactively identify, evaluate and implement novel technologies to support translational activities.

12. Supervise, mentor, and professionally develop a team of dedicated research and associate scientists.