We are seeking an accomplished Director of Preclinical Research to lead our expanding pipeline of next-generation biologics, exosome-based therapeutics and gene-delivery platforms. This is a senior strategic role responsible for shaping scientific direction, building cross-functional capabilities, and ensuring high-quality preclinical packages that advance programs toward IND-enabling studies and clinical development.
As Director, you will oversee multidisciplinary scientists, drive innovation, and own the scientific vision behind our emerging therapeutic technologies. You will act as a key partner to the leadership team across R&D, CMC, Translational, Business Development and external collaborators.
Key Responsibilities
Scientific Strategy & Leadership
* Define and execute the preclinical research strategy underpinning exosome-based, RNA and gene-delivery therapeutic programs.
* Provide scientific leadership across discovery, platform optimisation, mechanism-of-action studies and translational development.
* Evaluate emerging technologies, partnerships and scientific opportunities aligned with company growth.
Program Ownership
* Lead multiple preclinical programs simultaneously from concept → proof-of-mechanism → IND-ready data packages.
* Integrate biological, analytical, and delivery-platform insights to advance programs efficiently and with high scientific quality.
* Oversee study design, experimental planning, data interpretation and decision-making at key program milestones.
Functional Leadership & Team Development
* Build, mentor and lead a team of scientists (Senior Scientist / Principal Scientist level) across molecular biology, exosome engineering, analytics, pharmacology and translational research.
* Establish high-performance standards, effective communication workflows and cross-functional alignment.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
* Partner with CMC, Analytics, Process Development, Regulatory and Clinical teams to ensure smooth progression toward IND-enabling studies.
* Drive external collaborations with CROs, academic partners and technology vendors.
Data Quality, Documentation & Compliance
* Ensure scientific integrity, reproducibility and documentation suitable for regulatory review.
* Contribute to regulatory strategy, including preclinical sections of briefing documents, IND modules and technical reports.
Innovation & Platform Development
* Lead optimisation of exosome/gene-delivery platforms, including cargo loading, targeting strategies, potency assays, biodistribution approaches and in vitro/in vivo functional testing.
* Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement across research teams.
About You
* PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, Bioengineering or related field.
* 10+ years of experience in industry (biotech/pharma) with proven success in preclinical development or advanced therapeutic platforms.
* Strong expertise in exosome biology, nanoparticle or RNA delivery, gene-therapy mechanisms, or related drug-delivery technologies.
* Demonstrated ability to lead high-performing scientific teams and advance complex programs to preclinical decision points.
* Deep understanding of preclinical pharmacology, MoA studies, potency/functional assays, analytical method development, and IND-enabling expectations.
* Excellent communicator with the ability to influence at executive level and represent the organisation externally.