Head of Translational Medicine – Biotech
San Francisco, CA
We are seeking a Head of Translational Medicine to lead translational strategy for an innovative biotech advancing immunology-focused programs. This role is ideal for a scientific leader with deep expertise in translational biology and biomarkers, capable of connecting mechanistic science to clinical development strategy.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead translational medicine and biomarker strategy across the pipeline, integrating preclinical and clinical insights to support program advancement.
- Develop and execute translational strategies to support mechanism of action, pharmacodynamic biomarkers, patient stratification, and proof-of-concept.
- Drive biomarker strategy and oversee translational endpoints within clinical studies, including assay strategy, sample analysis plans, and correlative science.
- Partner closely with Research, Clinical Development, Biometrics, and Regulatory to ensure translational data informs development decisions.
- Use translational and emerging clinical data to guide dose strategy, patient selection, and broader program direction.
- Provide scientific leadership around immune biology, disease mechanism, and biomarker-driven development strategies.
- Oversee external collaborations with academic investigators, CROs, and specialty partners supporting translational research.
- Build and shape translational capabilities in a growing biotech environment, helping define strategy, priorities, and scientific direction.
- Support publications, scientific communications, and diligence or partnering activities as needed.
Qualifications
- PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or related discipline required.
- 10+ years of translational medicine or translational biology experience in biotech, pharma, or leading translational research settings.
- Deep expertise in biomarker strategy, translational endpoints, and mechanism-driven development.
- Strong background in immunology, including experience supporting immune-mediated disease or immunology-focused therapeutic development.
- Experience linking preclinical biology and biomarker data to early clinical development decisions, including proof-of-mechanism and proof-of-concept.
- Experience supporting or leading translational strategy in early-stage or growth-stage biotech environments preferred.
- Track record of working cross-functionally across research and development teams in highly collaborative settings.
- Strong scientific leadership with the ability to operate strategically while remaining hands-on in a lean environment.