Job Description

About the Role

Qilu Pharmaceuticals, a leading pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical company in China, with three innovation centers in the U.S., is expanding its RNA therapy team. We seek a highly motivated and experienced scientist to lead efforts in advancing RNA-based therapeutics. This role offers two potential directions based on expertise and career aspirations:

1. RNA Therapy Biology: Focused on developing siRNA therapeutics targeting liver, extrahepatic, and neurological diseases.
2. Program Management: Overseeing drug discovery programs, evaluating new therapeutic targets, and managing cross-functional collaborations.

Potential Directions

1. RNA Therapy Biology Focus

This track emphasizes leading scientific initiatives in RNA therapeutics, particularly siRNA drug discovery and development.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Oversee multiple programs developing siRNA therapeutics, from target identification to candidate selection.
• Stay updated on competitive landscapes in RNA-based modalities (siRNA, ASO, mRNA, etc.).
• Design and execute preclinical proof-of-concept studies in relevant therapeutic areas (liver, extrahepatic, CNS).
• Manage global CROs and external partnerships, ensuring quality and timely execution.
• Train and mentor junior scientists, research associates, ensuring adherence to best practices and SOPs.
• Present findings to project teams, governance bodies, and external scientific audiences.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Biology, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline with 5+ years of industry experience.
• Deep understanding of RNAi mechanisms, PK/PD relationships, and oligonucleotide drug discovery.
• Strong expertise in preclinical model development for RNA therapeutics.
• Experience managing external collaborations, including CRO partnerships.
• Excellent communication skills in English (Chinese proficiency is a plus).
• Strong leadership, organizational, and project management skills.

2. Program Management Focus

This track is ideal for individuals with experience in drug discovery program management, target evaluation, and cross-functional leadership.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Identify and assess novel therapeutic targets, ensuring translational feasibility.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams (biology, chemistry, bioinformatics) to drive projects forward.
• Develop and implement assays for target engagement, potency, and mechanism-of-action studies.
• Support drug discovery programs from early-stage research through critical development milestones.
• Ensure project deliverables are met on time and within budget.
• Present data and strategic insights to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Contribute to publications, patents, and regulatory documentation.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, or a related field with 5+ years of industry experience.
• Proven track record in program management within biotech/pharmaceutical R&D.
• Strong background in oligonucleotide therapeutics (siRNA, ASO, mRNA) is preferred.
• Experience in assay development for drug discovery applications is preferred.
• Excellent leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic research environment.

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