Senior Director, Preclinical Program Lead

Responsibilities

• 1. Preclinical Program Lead, OpCT-002/003 (Matrixed Management):
• Serve as the biology subject matter expert and an intellectual contributor for our preclinical OpCT-002/003 program, which is entirely executed by our external collaborator, Opsis Therapeutics (https://www.bluerocktx.com/bluerock-therapeutics-fujifilm-cellular-dynamics-and-opsis-therapeutics-enter-into-a-strategic-rd-alliance-to-discover-and-develop-cell-therapies-for-eye-diseases/) .
• Provide matrixed management and oversight of this collaborative program, ensuring alignment with BlueRock's strategic goals and efficient progression through development stage gates towards an IND.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with Opsis Therapeutics investigators and key opinion leaders in the field.


• 2. Translational Neuroscience Coordinator:
• Coordinate translational neuroscience approaches across BlueRock's preclinical assets.
• Develop and execute a robust preclinical translational strategy, including the identification and validation of biomarkers and imaging biomarkers to support program advancement.
• Interface seamlessly with Program Leads, our in vivo team lead and colleagues from our Development team, including Clinical, Toxicology, and Commercial, to ensure a cohesive and integrated development strategy.
• Actively contribute to aligning clinical strategy with a strong focus on patient outcomes and fulfilling a clear commercial need.
• Establish, grow, and maintain key relationships with global leaders in retinal cell biology, cell and gene therapy, and translational medicine fields, including BlueRock Advisory Boards.

Requirements

• PhD in Biomedical Sciences, Retinal Cell Biology, Neuroscience, or a related discipline, or an M.D. · 12+ years of relevant, full-time industry or academic lab experience, with a significant portion gained within the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry.
• Demonstrated experience in clinical development, including understanding of regulatory pathways and the translation of preclinical findings into clinical trials.
• Deep knowledge of retinal cell biology, regenerative medicine, screening assays, and biomarkers.
• Proven experience in developing preclinical translational strategies, including the identification and implementation of biomarkers and imaging biomarkers.
• Proven ability to lead by example within a matrixed, dynamic, and high-growth team, championing and advancing novel concepts within cross-functional teams.
• Experience managing research relationships with external partners
• An innovative, results-oriented, and solutions-focused mindset with exceptional critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated track record in scientific research within the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry.