VP/SVP, Discovery Research (Virology)

(S)VP, Discovery Research (Virology)Location: [Seattle, WA / Bay Area | Hybrid]Company: Stealth-mode Biotechnology CompanyThe RoleWill lead the strategy and execution of discovery research across all antiviral programs, owning efforts from discovery through IND-enabling studies including virology/pharmacology, structural/biophysical characterization, DMPK, and toxicology.Key ResponsibilitiesDiscovery Strategy & Scientific LeadershipDefine and lead the end-to-end discovery strategy for antiviral programsDrive target identification and validation grounded in viral biology, host-pathogen interactions, and mechanisms of immune protectionEstablish and/or oversee platform capabilities across virology, immunology, and antibody engineeringVirology & Antiviral Discovery ExecutionLead development and implementation of virologically relevant screening systems (e.g. neutralization assay, cell-based infection models, HTS)Oversee viral isolate selection and characterization, including emerging variantsMay guide epitope mapping and therapeutic design, including structure-guided approachesDirect studies of viral entry, replication, and immune evasion mechanismsIntegrate in vitro and in vivo infection models to evaluate efficacy and translational relevanceEstablish and interpret correlates of protection and functional immune readoutsDrive resistance profiling and escape mutation analysis to ensure durability of antiviral candidatesResearch Through IND-Enabling OversightExtend leadership beyond discovery to scientific oversight of IND-enabling activities, ensuring continuity of program strategyGuide design and interpretation of:Pharmacology and efficacy studies (including relevant animal models)PK/PD and dose-ranging studiesNonclinical safety strategy, including IND-enabling toxicology planning and study designEnsure alignment between discovery data, candidate profile, and regulatory expectations for IND submissionContribute to IND strategy, data packages, and regulatory documentation in collaboration with cross-functional teamsMaintain accountability for candidate quality and differentiation through transition into early clinical developmentOperating Model & Team BuildingContributes to the build and leadership of a high-performing, multidisciplinary organizationEstablish and/or manages a partially externalized research model leveraging CROs, academic collaborators, and specialized virology labsSet standards for scientific rigor, reproducibility, and efficient executionCross-Functional LeadershipPartner closely with CMC, translational, regulatory, and clinical partners to ensure seamless progression from discovery through clinical trialsLead cross-functional trade-off decisions balancing potency, breadth, developability, manufacturability, and timelinesExternal Engagement & Scientific InsightEngage with KOLs and partners to stay at the forefront of virology, immunology, and emerging pathogensMay evaluate external opportunities aligned with company strategyQualificationsRequiredPhD, MD, or MD/PhD in virology, immunology, or related field15+ years of industry experience with proven successful record advancing biologic therapeutics into the clinic.Deep expertise in viral biologyStrongly PreferredDirect experience with protein-based therapeutics, including monoclonal antibodies (mAbs)Experience contributing to BLA approval or late-stage clinical successRespiratory pathogen expertisePrior successful direct experience in and/or management of protein sciences, virology pharmacology, DMPK and toxicology.Leadership ProfileBuilder mindset with the ability to contribute to a world-class, yet lean, discovery organizationSets a culture of scientific rigor, speed, and accountabilityAble to bridge deep biology with translational and regulatory requirementsStrong communicator who drives clear, decision-oriented discussions

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