Urgent
Urgent
Ability Biotherapeutics
Director Drug Development and TranslationOur ScienceAbility Biologics is using its discovery engine to systematically generate logic-enabled antibodies with the potential to surpass current treatment paradigms for patients. Our goal is to exquisitely and sensitively target discrete disease causing cells, ultimately increasing the therapeutic benefit while limiting toxicities. Our approach will also leverage the local disease microenvironment, and conditions that exist therein, such as pH and temperature differentials or the presence of certain metabolites, to tailor and focus our therapeutics. The team has deep experience in immunology, antibody discovery and engineering as well as drug development from the bench to the market, offering the ideal candidate a rich growth opportunity.The OpportunityThe successful candidate for this role is an established leader in drug development and/or translation with demonstrated acumen and enthusiasm for advancing lead candidates from the preclinical stage through IND enabling studies and into the clinic.This is an exciting opportunity ideally suited to an individual who loves the details of the science, understands the nuances of programs in development and thrives in a collaborative solutions-focused organization.Join us and focus on strategic oversight and play a central part in shaping and executing the company’s translational and development strategy.Provide hands-on scientific leadership and strategic oversight of ongoing programs, contribute to defining development priorities, and ensure high-quality execution across programs.Lead a team of talented Ph.D. and non-Ph.D. scientists and collaborate crossfunctionally with members of other scientific teams in-house and at partner and CRO organizations.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Scientific LeadershipProvide scientific judgment and direction to shape translational strategies for immunology and oncology programs, guiding progression from preclinical research through IND-enabling activities and early clinical development.Operational and Scientific ExcellenceDefine and maintain expectations for scientific rigor, data integrity, reproducibility, and experimental design, enabling clear, evidence-based development decisions.Program Leadership and OversightSteer cross-functional program teams to identify, prioritize, and advance lead candidates, balancing scientific opportunity, risk profile, and development feasibility as programs move toward the clinic.Regulatory Strategy and SubmissionsContribute to and review technical reports and core components of regulatory submissions, including pre-IND and IND packages, Clinical Study Reports, and interactions with global health authorities (FDA, Health Canada, EMA), in close coordination with regulatory and clinical partners.Cross-Functional IntegrationWork in close partnership with colleagues across protein sciences/CMC, clinical development, DMPK, biomarkers, and regulatory affairs to align strategies and deliver cohesive, execution-ready development plans.Team Leadership and Capability BuildingBuild, mentor, and support a multidisciplinary team of scientists. Encourage a culture of thoughtful challenge, accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning, strengthening organizational capability through coaching and knowledge sharing in drug development and translation.External Scientific EngagementServe as a scientific representative for the organization, supporting external partnerships, CRO oversight, and selected scientific engagements. Participate in scientific conferences, industry forums, academic collaborations, and due diligence activities aligned with company priorities.Data-Informed Decision MakingGuide the interpretation of efficacy, safety, and translational data to inform program decisions, refine development approaches, and support timely advancement toward clinical milestones.Required Qualifications PhD or equivalent in biological sciences, immunology, oncology, pharmacology or a related discipline.At least 10 years of R&D experience in Pharm/biotech in immunology and/or oncology.Proven track record of delivering lead candidates, particulary biologics, to IND and the clinic. Understanding of regulatory requirements and global regulatory filings. Experience preparing and reviewing technical reports and sections of regulatory documents in support of p-IND and IND submissions.Demonstrated ability to apply scientific judgment to inform program-level decisions, including risk assessment, prioritization, and readiness for clinical advancement.Experience overseeing and scientifically guiding external partners and CROs to ensure data quality, timelines, and alignment with development objectives.Demonstrated excellence in leading teams, developing and mentoring team members.Possession of strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to synthesize complex scientific data into clear, decision-ready insights for senior leadership and stakeholders.Willingness to actively and transparently share scientific views, feedback and issuesDemonstrated ability to operate effectively in ambiguous, fast-evolving, and resource-constrained environments, with a pragmatic and solutions-oriented mindset.Strong interpersonal skills including self awareness and emotional intelligenceAbility to work collaboratively, inclusively, and with the highest ethical standards