Portfolio Manager, RNA Technology Development (Chemistry, Molecular Engineering)

Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR); Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading initiative in Singapore dedicated to advancing RNA-based medicines as a Portfolio Manager. In this full-time role, you will oversee project execution, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement in the biotech field. Bring your expertise in chemistry and project management to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in RNA technology development at A*STAR.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Chemistry or Molecular Engineering required.
• Industry experience preferred, especially in biotech or life sciences.
• Demonstrated experience in managing portfolio of complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Oversee RNA technology projects from inception to completion.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for RNA technology initiatives.
• Manage project budgets and ensure grant compliance.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Technical Expertise

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry or Molecular Engineering

M.Sc. with MBA

Job description

Organisation: NATi

Location: Singapore

Reports to: DD Portfolio Management Unit

Job type: Full-time

NATi

Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Initiative (NATi), hosted by A*STAR, is Singapore's national platform dedicated to advancing RNA-based medicines and revolutionising drug and vaccine development. NATi's mission is to establish Singapore as a globally recognised hub of excellence in nucleic acid therapeutics research, clinical translation, and commercialisation. NATi focuses on key RNA modalities such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA). To drive this vision, NATi is building a biotech-like translational engine focused on asset and technology development spanning from early discovery to clinical development. We are actively seeking passionate and committed chemistry experts with deep translational expertise in RNA technologies to join us in advancing the next generation of RNA-based therapeutics.

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Portfolio Manager to join our team. The PM will accelerate project execution with the aim of technology maturation and integration across the portfolio. Responsibilities include interfacing with research teams, ensuring grant compliance, and managing our technology portfolio. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in chemistry and molecular engineering, with a strong focus on RNA technologies.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management: Oversee the development and execution of RNA technology projects, with a focus on RNA biology, from inception to completion, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and timelines.

Strategic Planning: Develop and implement strategic plans for RNA technology initiatives, identifying opportunities for innovation and growth.

Budget Management: Manage project budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and adherence to financial targets.

Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including researchers, scientists, and industry partners, to drive project success and commercial outcomes.

Grant Compliance: Ensure all projects comply with grant funding requirements and standards.

Data Analysis: Oversee the analysis and interpretation of RNA-related data, providing insights to guide project direction and decision-making.

Commercial and Competitive Awareness: Understand the global competitive landscape and RNA drug and technology investment trends to inform strategic decisions.

Intellectual Property: Familiar with intellectual property and portfolio management, ensuring the protection and optimisation of RNA technologies.

Investment: Catalyse collaboration with industry to secure investment for NATi and Singapore.

Qualifications

Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Chemistry, Molecular Engineering, or a related field with some industry experience or M.Sc. with MBA.

Technical Expertise: Experience in RNA technology development, with a strong background in chemistry and molecular engineering.

Professional Experience: Prior experience in biotech or life sciences companies, especially in portfolio/project management, business development, strategy and/or R&D.

Project Management: Demonstrated experience in managing a portfolio of complex projects.

Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead and manage cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Able to influence and communicate effectively across diverse teams and different levels, from scientists to principal investigators and stakeholders.

Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific concepts to varied audiences.

Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail, with the ability to assess and mitigate project risks

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and references. Please include a summary of your experiences in portfolio management, highlighting relevant achievements and contributions.

Join our team and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in RNA technology development. We look forward to your application!