Director, Preclinical Drug Development (Hybrid)

MassBio; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

MassBio seeks a Director of Preclinical Research and Development to translate therapeutic concepts into drug candidates and lead several programs from discovery through IND-enabled status. The role requires collaboration across medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and external contractors to advance corporate pipeline and ensure robust preclinical data.

You will design studies, supervise in vitro and in vivo efforts, manage budgets and CROs, and communicate progress to senior leadership while

Qualifications

• 8+ years in pharmaceutical R&D with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in preclinical development of small molecule drugs from discovery to IND submissions.

Responsibilities

• Lead multiple preclinical programs from discovery to IND-ready candidates.
• Draft short- and long-term project timelines with critical-path milestones.
• Oversee synthesis, characterization and formulation for preclinical testing.
• Design and manage in vitro pharmacology studies including activity, metabolism, and toxicity.
• Design animal studies to evaluate PK/PD and toxicology.
• Identify and manage CROs and external partners for planned experiments.
• Summarize progress and findings for senior leadership and support IP/fundraising activities.

Skills

Scientific acumen

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Regulatory & IP knowledge

Entrepreneurial mindset

Hybrid work

Medicinal chemistry

Education

Ph.D. or Pharm.D.

Job description

MassBio seeks a Director of Preclinical Research and Development to translate therapeutic concepts into drug candidates and lead several programs from discovery through IND-enabled status. The role requires collaboration across medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and external contractors to advance corporate pipeline and ensure robust preclinical data.

You will design studies, supervise in vitro and in vivo efforts, manage budgets and CROs, and communicate progress to senior leadership while