Description:
Director, Biology – Alzheimer’s Disease
Location: Onsite in the Greater Los Angeles area (relocation assistance available)
Company Overview: Confidential, venture-backed biotechnology company focused on advancing novel treatments for neurological conditions
We are working with a dynamic, well-capitalized biotech organization that is building a pipeline of innovative therapies targeting neurological diseases. As their Alzheimer’s disease efforts continue to grow, they are looking to bring on a Director of Biology to lead scientific initiatives spanning discovery through translational development in neurodegeneration.
This role is ideal for an experienced and driven scientist eager to make a meaningful impact by guiding programs from early-stage research through IND-enabling activities within a collaborative and fast-moving environment.
Primary Responsibilities
- Provide scientific leadership for Alzheimer’s disease programs across early discovery and preclinical stages
- Develop and direct in vitro and in vivo experiments to assess targets, biological mechanisms, and therapeutic candidates
- Lead translational biology strategy, including biomarker development, disease modeling, and integration of data to inform decision-making
- Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams such as medicinal chemistry, DMPK, toxicology, regulatory, and external partners to progress programs toward IND
- Analyze complex scientific data and deliver clear insights and recommendations to leadership and project teams
- Monitor scientific advancements and competitive activity within Alzheimer’s disease and the broader neurodegeneration field
- Oversee and mentor internal team members as well as manage relationships with CROs
- Support overall pipeline development and contribute to presentations for internal and external audiences
Qualifications
- PhD in Neuroscience, Biology, Pharmacology, or a related field
- 10+ years of industry experience in biotech or pharmaceuticals, including significant work in CNS or neurodegenerative disease research
- Strong expertise in Alzheimer’s disease biology, including understanding of disease pathways, experimental models, and translational strategies
- Solid experience in small molecule drug discovery and development
- Track record of advancing programs through preclinical stages and supporting IND-related activities
- Demonstrated leadership experience managing teams, collaborations, and cross-functional projects
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to effectively engage both scientific and executive stakeholders
- Thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial biotech setting