Associate Director, Target Discovery and In vitro Pharmacology

The Aesthetics Pharma Innovation Group at AbbVie seeks an accomplished scientist and leader. The Associate Director/Principal Research Scientist II will lead a team performing in vitro and ex vivo pharmacological research in the area of hair and skin biology focused on new target identification validation and drug screening. She/He/They will be responsible for managing a diverse team of in vitro/ex vivo scientists to design and perform cellular and complex organ culture studies using existing and novel assays aimed at evaluating novel candidate molecules performing CRISPR screens for identification of new targets and further validation of mechanism of actions. Candidate must have experience with partnering with bioinformatics SMEs and collaborating with partner functions in chemistry and/or biologics.

The ideal candidate will have a strong and established background in pharmacology (in hair a plus) specializing in vitro assays (biochemical cellular complex models) plus novel target screens and a proven track record of successfully leading diverse project teams to produce novel therapeutics. The candidate will have experience with project conception strategic planning budgeting and both leading as well as contributing to crossfunctional and matrixed teams. Additionally the candidate will have a working knowledge of various research areas including hair and skin biology pharmacology pharmacokinetics toxicology biochemistry and histology.

The candidate will be able to lead by influence and maintain a productive collaborative and inclusive laboratory environment in compliance with regulatory and company expectations. Experience managing projects from earlystage research through development is a required.
A key role for the position is working with senior management to set strategic direction and vision for the earlystage discovery program while leading a team responsible for executing the technical aspects of the plan. Strong communication skills are essential as the candidate must be able to tailor interactions with technical teams and present the program and strategy to executivelevel management.

Key responsibilities:
Drive functional performance by leading team members in designing and deploying the appropriate in vitro cellular and ex vivo assays including analyzing pharmacological results for both screening of novel molecules discovery and validation of new targets
Develop and execute a strategy in alignment with functional goals and key scientific objectives in earlystage discovery and during transition to development stage
Partner with chemistry to design and create NCEs with desired pharmacological characteristics
Partner with genetic research center to design and execute target identification and validation strategy
Liaise with toxicology immunology bioanalytical clinical colleagues as programs advance
As programs advance develop plans to address and reduce risks in collaboration with key stakeholders to help progress the program into development and ultimately into clinical studies
Manage project activities and professional development of a team of scientists through effective mentoring guidance and supervision
Ensure the quality and effectiveness of key project results through sound design early risk assessments and implementation of fallback strategies
Provide expert advice and share knowledge with direct reports peers and senior management
Provide guidance to develop both the skills and the careers of direct reports
Train and mentor functional colleagues and assess current and emerging business challenges to achieve functional goals
Identify and integrate emerging scientific trends from internal and external sources into shortterm functional objectives
Responsible for data management data QC and technical report writing
Author regulatory documents in compliance with Federal Regulations including protocols study reports relevant sections of investigator brochures and INDs white papers and other similar documents
Present program updates and research strategies to functional and nonfunctional leaders as well as potential and existing partners
Maintain awareness of emerging literature and science in the hair and skin biology field and author scientific disclosures as needed

Qualifications :

Understanding of small molecules and ability to partner with SMEs to design and create new molecular entities with desired pharmacological characteristics
Direct experience with iPSCderived cell models and CRISPR screens
Extensive knowledge and experience in dermatology (hair biology a plus)
At a minimum conversant in omics bioinformatics pharmacokinetics toxicologic and histologic assays and methods
Extremely organized and experienced with documentation of experimental plans budget timelines and technical reports
Experience in authoring and QCing technical reports and/or regulatory documents
Highly organized and selfdirected capable of leading multiple complex research programs in parallel.
Solid understanding of standard statistical analysis of scientific data using data software tools (e.g. Prism SigmaPlot)
Detailed oriented and precise in written and oral communication
Effective problemsolving skills
Ability to critically analyze data and lead teams to solve issues and make the best strategic decisions
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with diverse groups within the organization and external partners
Knowledge of pharmaceutical development processes including lead characterization target engagement pharmacokinetics pharmacodynamics and basic toxicology
Experience evaluating internal and external research and development programs
Proven team leadership and management abilities including experience mentoring guiding supervising and developing scientific personnel with various backgrounds and training levels
Ability to create an inclusive environment where diverse ideas viewpoints and backgrounds are valued; willingness and ability to lead inclusively and demonstrate a commitment to listen and consider all points of view
Education & Experience:
PhD in Biology Pharmacology Dermatology Biochemistry or equivalent field with 8 years of related work experience in biotech or pharma; masters degree Science or PharmD with 14 years of related work

Additional Information :

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: 

• The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location and we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future.

• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation holidays sick) medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.

• This job is eligible to participate in our shortterm incentive programs. 

• This job is eligible to participate in our longterm incentive programs

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus commission incentive benefits or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Companys sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Companys sole and absolute discretion consistent with applicable law. 

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity driving innovation transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

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