Senior Director - Nanotechnology

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The newly formed Genetic Medicine Technology group in gRED (Genentech Research and Early Development) is redefining the future of cell and gene therapies. Our proprietary non-viral gene delivery and gene editing platforms, including lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), piggyBac and Cas-CLOVER, enable the development of next-generation CAR-T therapies with the potential to cure cancer and genetic diseases.

We are seeking a highly motivated leader with a strong technical background in nanoparticle and LNP-mediated nucleic acids drug delivery. This person will join a dynamic and talented research team advancing non-viral therapies. This individual will direct efforts in developing novel non-viral drug delivery vehicles by overseeing the nanoparticle/nanotechnology function, working closely with the head of GMT. This individual will collaborate directly with immunology, bioanalytical, molecular biology, and pharmacology functions at Genentech San Diego to advance both platform and pipeline programs. This individual will also collaborate broadly with Genentech San Francisco and Roche research and innovation sites. The ideal candidate will have deep technical expertise with LNPs and chemistry, with additional expertise in pre-clinical models, xenographs, and T cell biology/manipulation.

• Lead all research efforts for nanoparticle formulation, analytical characterization, and primary functional evaluation.

• Discover and optimize applications of novel lipids from diverse structural families for LNP-mediated delivery of nucleic acid payloads.

• Co-lead screening efforts, in vitro and in vivo, working closely with molecular and in vivo pharmacology groups, to identify novel LNP formulations for optimal tissue/cell delivery.

• Collaborate with diverse groups across the organization, including those representing cell therapy, vector engineering, pharmacology, translational biology, immuno-oncology, CMC, process development, and small molecule subject matter experts.

• Study fundamental mechanisms of action including LNP circulation, cellular uptake, endosomal escape, and specific behaviors unique to a particular payload class.

• Lead efforts to advance platform development for an in vivo therapeutic application of an LNP modality from concept through clinical validation.

• Analyze and interpret complex datasets, prepare clear reports, and present findings in internal program meetings, cross-functional reviews, and governance forums.

• Lead and contribute to external publications, conference abstracts, and patent filings relevant to LNP development for autoimmune, neurology, and oncology indications.

• Ph.D. in chemistry, engineering, bioengineering, nanotechnology, material science or a related field with 15+ years of relevant industry and academic experience. A strong background in DNA delivery is a plus.

• Experience working with T cells is required.

• Experience successfully advancing a candidate to IND-enabling studies is required.

• Proven expertise in nanoparticle science, especially LNP delivery systems and non-viral gene transfer/delivery.

• Strong data analysis skills and familiarity with design of experiments statistical analyses for process optimization, using software such as JMP statistical tools,

• Familiarity with nucleic acids chemistry and molecular biology is highly desirable.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

Relocation benefits are available for this job posting.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of San Diego, CA is $185,900 - $345,200. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Benefits

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

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