Located in Redmond WA, Systimmune Inc. is a bio-pharmaceutical company focused on the treatment of cancer through developing novel therapeutic multi-specific antibodies, as well as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Our objective is to create biologics that work through systematic intervention on the solid tumor micro-environment, to either directly attack the tumor and/or to activate the immune system to attack the tumor.

Summary: The Senior Director, Protein Engineering will be responsible for leading a group of scientists to design, engineer and characterize antibody-based drug candidates – in the format of ADC, bispecific and multi-specific antibodies.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the protein engineering department innovation and core platform processes.
• Support new drug development technologies and R&D initiatives by managing resources for protein design and production.
• Drive the engineering of novel therapeutic multi-specific antibodies and ADCs, identify and mitigate risks in protein engineering projects
• Use structural and sequence analysis to guide the design of drug candidates.
• Oversee drug candidate optimization, quality validation, and stability studies.
• Contribute to regulatory filings of biotherapeutics.
• Prepare reports, papers, and patent applications, collaborating closely with inventors, scientists, and legal counsel.
• Work with R&D center in China, accommodating meetings and technical support with team members.
• Support scientific discussions, providing high-level strategic advice and expertise to management, the board, advisory groups, and scientific committees.
• Participate in timeline planning and decision-making regarding research priorities and project feasibility.
• Manage departmental budgets, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, fostering innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Engage in strategic planning, setting research priorities, and advancing drug development pipelines.
• Oversee multiple projects, set timelines, and ensure timely delivery of objectives.
• Implement quality management systems, ensure compliance, and drive continuous improvement.
• Represent the company externally, engage with key opinion leaders, and present scientific findings.
• Perform any other assigned duties.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience:

• PHD in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or related field.
• 10-15 years of progressively responsible experience in protein engineering, preferably in both academic and industry settings.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage teams.
• Strong strategic vision and experience in developing and executing strategic plans aligned with organizational goals.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify challenges and propose innovative solutions.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to effectively interact with cross-functional teams and stakeholders at all levels.