Senior Director, Neurobiology

Dragonfly seeks an experienced and motivated neurobiologist to drive target identification/validation and proof of concept studies in neuropathic pain and other neurologic conditions/diseases. The successful candidate will be a strong scientist with hands-on familiarity with neurobiology techniques, early discovery biopharmaceutical experience and a proven track record of reducing innovation to practice. The individual will report to the CSO.

Responsibilities:

• Apply experience and expertise to lead proof of concept studies for novel therapies in neuropathic pain and other neurologic diseases/conditions
• Identify and validate relevant molecular targets for intervention using internal resources and CROs
• Recruit and lead a small team to build and utilize in vitro and in vivo preclinical model systems for proof of concept studies as well as downstream drug candidate screening
• Collaborate effectively with translational, clinical, regulatory, business and other scientific colleagues to drive cross-functional opportunity assessment; present and articulate proposed innovation strategies to Senior Management and Scientific Advisory Board
• Coordinate preparation and review of laboratory documentation, study reports and project presentations
• Manage neurobiology budget to ensure a disciplined allocation of resources to high yield areas
• Assume responsibility and ensure that corporate goals relevant to your team are met in a timely manner
• Be a role model for Dragonfly’s culture and values; act as a cultural ambassador for the company

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. degree in neurobiology, neuroimmunology, neuroscience or related field
• 10 years of industry experience in biopharmaceutical setting
• Strong understanding of central and peripheral nervous systems as well as disorders and diseases impacting them
• Broad and deep experience in exploring novel product concepts for neurological conditions and disease with high unmet need
• Deep experience in target idenfitication, validation and preclinical proof of concept studies with antibodies or other protein-based therapies for the treatment of neurologic conditions and diseases
• Hands-on experience with in vitro and in vivo preclinical model systems, techniques and resources for conditions/diseases impacting both PNS and CNS
• Proven track record in scientific leadership and project and team management in both line and matrix settings
• Adept in preparation and implementation of project plans created with input by cross-functional subject matter experts
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to clearly articulate scientific viewpoints to diverse audiences and engage them into debate with a view of gaining a broader perspective
• Self-motivated, conscientious, and passionate about improving patients’ lives