Senior Director, Molecular & Functional Genomics

SENIOR DIRECTOR, MOLECULAR & FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS

Position Summary:

Reporting to the CSO, this experienced people leader and drug discovery professional will build out and lead the new Molecular & Functional Genomics (MFG) department starting from strategy to design principles and implementation. The Head of MFG will be responsible for the strategies and solutions to generate an understanding of the genetic variations that modify the manifestations of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and other benign hematological indications. Leveraging biochemical, cellular and animal model systems to validate targets and concepts, these efforts will lead to the creation of new drug discovery projects, the uncovering of rational combinations with existing drugs and/or MOAs, and insights into responder-non-responder hypotheses from the clinic (reverse translation). The Head of MFG will join the Research Leadership Team (RLT) and work collectively to define the vision, strategy and execution plan to meet the department and corporate objectives at GBT.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Create genetic epidemiology and functional genomics core at GBT
• Establish and lead a new function positioned to conduct validation studies, based on results from genetics and genomics, that leverage biochemical, structural, and cellular (cell lines, primary cells, and iPSCs) models up to whole animal systems
• Implement cellular assays to assess biological pathways and gene sets that mechanistically link gene targets and traits to disease(s)
• Deploy pooled and array based CRISPR technologies and libraries for screening and high-throughput cell-based assay development
• Transform human genomics data into a drug pipeline via new target validation, rational combination approaches, translational science, and evaluation of in-licensing opportunities
• Provide expert guidance for the SCD Genomics Project
• Champion broad use of -omics techniques from target ideation to clinical evaluation
• Build and develop tools, platform, capabilities, people and organization that will scale with GBT
• Represent the function on various discovery and development teams involved in a range of drug pipeline activities
• Prioritize resource and headcount needs, and recruit and hire top talent in a timely manner
• Foster an environment of innovation where employees can grow and contribute to their fullest by providing regular feedback, soliciting input and by creating internal development opportunities

Qualifications:

• PhD with at least 12 years of industry experience in cell biology, cellular models of human disease, and functional genomics with at least 5 of those years progressive experience in a management level position
• Possess a strong background in applying genomic technologies to identify genes or traits responsible for causing or modifying human diseases
• Ability to design and lead genetic and genomic studies delivering novel findings and medically relevant gene discoveries leveraging cell-based and in vivo model systems
• Demonstrated ability to hire and lead high functioning teams
• Experience successfully managing multiple, often complex, priorities and projects
• Strong communication skills in a collaborative environment

Fit with GBT culture:

• Ability to build strong relationships with co-workers of various backgrounds and expertise
• Ability to function at a high level in a team setting whether leading the group or acting as an individual contributor
• Values-based leadership consistent with GBT's Core Values
• Excitement about the vision and mission of GBT
• Flexibility
• Integrity

NOTE: This position summary is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Global Blood Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.