What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal Scientist/Associate Director – RNA Therapy Biology / Program Management position at Qilu Pharmaceuticals?
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:
- RNA Therapy Biology: Focused on developing siRNA therapeutics targeting liver, extrahepatic, and neurological diseases.
- 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.
