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Director, DMPK

Assembly Biosciences, Inc.
South San Francisco, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 6/13/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/11/2026

POSITION SUMMARY


Position Title: Director, DMPK

Reports to: Executive Director, DMPK

Status: Regular, Full-time, Exempt

Location: South San Francisco, CA


Summary: We are seeking an experienced, creative, and highly motivated expert with industry research experience in DMPK focused on small molecule lead optimization for discovery research programs, preclinical and clinical drug development. In addition to overseeing a group of external professionals, this position will be responsible for leading DMPK interactions with medicinal chemists to facilitate the identification of molecules meeting criteria for clinical development and support preclinical and clinical development.


Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Supervising a group of external DMPK scientists supporting research and development programs.
  • Providing scientific guidance on chemical lead optimization programs and work in close collaboration with medicinal chemists to optimize the DMPK properties of candidate drugs.
  • Closely interacting and effectively communicating with individual research and development groups.
  • Ensuring complete preclinical DMPK assessment for clinical-stage candidate molecules.
  • Understanding routes of elimination, levels and identity of circulating metabolites and toxicology coverage as needed.
  • Supporting CTA and IND filings and contribute to clinical development for clinical candidates.
  • Performing PKPD modeling for discovery and development projects.
  • Scientific/technical aspects as well as management of assigned studies including protocol development, budget, timelines, oversight of outsourced activities, data analysis/interpretation and report writing.


This job description outlines the primary duties and responsibilities of the role; however, it is not intended to be all-inclusive. The scope of responsibilities may be modified, expanded, or adjusted at the discretion of the organization to meet evolving business needs.


Qualifications Include:

  • PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, or related discipline, with 10 years of pharmaceutical industry experience. In lieu of a PhD, candidates who possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with additional industry experience will be considered
  • A strong background in ADME and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics as applied in small molecule lead optimization.
  • Exceptional knowledge of metabolic routes of biotransformation, metabolite identification and the chemistry of drug metabolism are required.
  • The candidate should have demonstrated technical knowledge and industrial experience in multiple DMPK areas and an in depth understanding of the experimental DMPK methodologies and approaches, in vitro and in vivo, utilized in chemical lead optimization.
  • The candidate must be able to work with multiple disciplines in drug discovery and provide exceptional guidance to medicinal chemists in the lead optimization process.
  • The candidate needs the ability to conduct innovative research in DMPK applied to the discovery of novel drug candidates to achieve defined milestones in a fast-paced environment.
  • The candidate should have extensive knowledge of preclinical drug development and may have experience in the preparation of regulatory documents, e.g. INDs and NDAs. In addition, she/he should be a goal oriented.Additional requirements include highly effective organizational and communication skills.
  • The candidate should be self-motivated, with a track record of productivity, demonstrated leadership potential, possess effective interpersonal skills and be team oriented.
  • The preferred candidate would also have experience and knowledge in Clinical Pharmacology.


Pay Range: $228,000 - $252,100 annualized


The stated pay range for this position reflects the San Francisco Bay Area job market. Assembly Bio establishes pay ranges based on geographic work locations. Additional factors such as academic credentials and relevant experience will influence the actual salary offered.


About Assembly Bio

Assembly Bio (NASDAQ: ASMB) is an ambitious biopharmaceutical company with cutting-edge therapeutic candidates capable of improving the lives of millions living with devastating viral and liver diseases. We have multiple ongoing clinical programs focused on the development of novel treatments for herpesviruses, hepatitis delta virus (HDV), cholestatic liver diseases and hepatitis B virus (HBV). Further, our research organization is dedicated to the discovery of new therapies to change the treatment paradigm for individuals living with serious viral and liver diseases.


We pride ourselves on creating a culture and work environment that is scientifically driven, ambitious, and collaborative. We encourage diversity of thought that leads to great innovation and are looking to add great people to our dynamic team who are driven to transform the lives of patients. We set our sights high—and pursue our goals with determination. Our unique organization stands ready to welcome talented, motivated individuals, who share our ambitions.


As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to diversity and inclusion and will

not tolerate discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.



Information for Recruitment Agencies

  • Assembly Bio does not accept from recruiters/agencies any unsolicited resumes, or any candidate information including blinded resumes and will not be responsible for any fees related to resumes or candidate information that is unsolicited. Please do not contact hiring managers or Assembly Bio employees directly with any information related to a resume or a candidate. We handle all recruiting through our internal Human Resources team, and we will reach out to you directly should we wish to engage in a search. Your willingness to comply with this will significantly impact any decision we may make about doing business with you.


Salary : $228,000 - $252,100

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