About Us
Fox Chase Therapeutics Discovery, Inc. (www.FCTDI.com) is an emerging science-based company focused on applying best discovery practices of early-stage drug and probe discovery research, including modern computational methods and chemical biology, laboratory medicinal chemistry, ADME characterization, and cutting-edge pharmacological screening, all in the support of translational research programs.
Position Summary
We are seeking an accomplished scientific leader to head our biology function in the role of Director of Biology, with a particular emphasis on assay development, target validation, and translational research. This individual will play a critical leadership role in advancing our CNS research primarily in the area of Alzheimer’s Disease research, by establishing robust screening, mechanistic, and translational assay platforms that enable data-driven decision-making across research programs.
The successful candidate will combine scientific excellence in CNS biology with substantial experience in assay development, biomarker discovery, and preclinical drug development. This role will work closely with leadership and cross-functional teams to shape scientific strategy and advance programs from target identification through potential candidate selection.
Key Responsibilities
Biology and Assay Strategy
- Develop and execute the biology strategy supporting the company's drug discovery programs.
- Establish and lead a state-of-the-art assay development function capable of supporting target validation, hit identification, lead optimization, and translational research.
- Design, optimize, validate, and implement cellular, biochemical, and phenotypic assays for various targets and pathways.
- Develop assays that are predictive of human disease biology and suitable for decision-making in drug discovery programs.
- Define assay performance criteria, quality control standards, and statistical analysis approaches to ensure data integrity and reproducibility.
Program and Team Leadership
- Manage and mentor a small but high-performing team of scientists and research associates.
- Work with cross-functional project teams including medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry, bioinformatics, and external collaborators.
- Present research findings and strategic recommendations to project teams, executive leadership, and scientific advisors.
External Collaboration
- Manage CROs and academic collaborations supporting assay development and biology activities as required.
- Conduct scientific due diligence for external partnerships and collaboration opportunities.
- Contribute to intellectual property generation, patent filings, and scientific publications as appropriate.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or a related discipline.
- 4+ years of relevant industry experience in small-molecule drug discovery in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical field with a strong publication record.
- Experience in CNS drug discovery and neuroscience research preferred.
- Proven track record of building and deploying assay platforms that have successfully supported drug discovery programs.
- Expertise in:
- Cell-based and biochemical assay development
- Target validation and mechanism-of-action studies
- Experimental design, assay statistics, and data interpretation
- Demonstrated success leading scientific teams and managing cross-functional research programs with at least 2 years personnel management experience.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate is a hands-on scientific leader who understands that the foundation of successful drug discovery is the development of robust, predictive, and scalable biological assays. They have a history of creating innovative assay systems that have enabled critical program decisions and advanced therapeutic candidates. They are equally comfortable reviewing assay performance metrics with scientists and troubleshooting complex experimental challenges in the laboratory.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Comprehensive health/dental benefits
- 401(k) with 100% company match
- Opportunity to shape the scientific direction of a growing small-molecule research company
- Direct impact on the development of transformative therapies for patients
FCTDI is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
