Program Manager

Denali Therapeutics; South San Francisco, Northern (CA, KY); On-site; USD 135,000 - 169,000; Full time

Job summary

Denali Therapeutics is seeking a strategic program manager to help advance our portfolio by guiding integrated plans, timelines, risks, and budgets across research, preclinical, and clinical development. You will work with project leaders and technical teams to co-lead drug development projects and ensure portfolio decisions align with broader pipeline objectives.

The role emphasizes strong organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills to drive cross-functional collaboration in a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; PhD in Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific discipline preferred.
• Typically requires 2+ years of industry experience, including 2+ years of project management experience in drug development.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and strategic planning skills, with keen attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Support strategy development and manage integrated project plans, timelines, risks, and costs for development.
• Co-lead drug development project teams with Project Leader and Technical Team Leaders.
• Guide discussions to frame development options and ensure portfolio alignment and effective communication.

Skills

Project management

Communication

Strategic planning

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

PhD in Chemistry/Biology

Job description

We invite you to consider an opportunity with Denali to help achieve our goal of delivering meaningful therapeutics to patients. This role supports strategy development and manages timelines, risks, and budgets for advancing candidates through research, preclinical, and clinical development. It leads project teams, supports business development, and ensures portfolio decisions align with broader pipeline objectives.

Key Accountabilities/Core Job Responsibilities

Support strategy development and manage integrated project plans, timeline, risks and costs associated with development of candidate progression through research, pre-clinical and clinical development. Work hand-in-hand with the Project Leader and Technical Team Leaders to co-lead drug development project teams, technology platform project teams, and biological pathway project teams, including Core Strategy Teams and Technical Sub teams. Guide team and facilitate discussions to frame and assess development options based on portfolio context and contribute to excellent portfolio management by placing program decisions into the context of the broader pipeline. Drive effective communication and decision making in a fast-paced environment. Work with business development in diligence and execution of new collaborations. Manage and track project metrics including timelines, budgets and risks.

Qualifications/Skills

Bachelor's degree required; PhD in Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific discipline preferred. Typically requires 2+ years of industry experience, including 2+ years of project management experience in drug development (preferred). Strong organizational, analytical, and strategic planning skills, with keen attention to detail. Outstanding interpersonal skills to build and maintain effective cross-functional relationships.

Salary & Benefits

Salary Range: $135,000.00 to $169,000.00 . Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. Denali offers a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k, healthcare coverage, ESPP and a broad range of other benefits. Learn more at https://www.denalitherapeutics.com/careers This compensation and benefits information is based on Denali's good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.

Equal Opportunity

Denali is committed to its core company value of unity by creating a diverse and inclusive environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, basis of disability, or any other federal, state, or local protected class.

Life at Denali

Life at Denali is a living reflection of our values: trust, unity, grit and growth. These are not just words we share—they shape how we show up, collaborate and push boundaries together. From the lab to the community, across functions and milestones, our culture thrives on shared purpose and relentless pursuit.