Senior Director, Veterinary Pathologist

Franklin Biolabs emerges from the esteemed legacy of Dr. Jim Wilson's laboratory, a beacon of innovation in vector technology for over three decades. Building on this rich heritage, Franklin Biolabs is poised to redefine the landscape of the global genetic medicines industry. As a Contract Research Organization (CRO), Franklin Biolabs offers a comprehensive suite of services spanning from discovery through clinical manufacturing. Our goal is to empower our partners by providing unparalleled solutions that drive the advancement of genetic medicines. Leveraging decades of expertise and a commitment to excellence, we bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and ensuring that transformative therapies reach those who need them most.

Franklin Biolabs, Inc. is in search of a Director, Veterinary Services who is committed to the highest standards of animal care and will manage all Franklin Biolabs animal care and use program. The Director will work collaboratively across Franklin Biolabs and with clients to ensure that all animal-related research activities are fully supported in a timely, efficient, and effective manner. The Senior Director for Veterinary Services will oversee: 

Franklin Biolabs, Inc. is in search of a highly skilled Veterinary Pathologist to join our Preclinical and Translational Services team. In this dual role position, you will serve as both a Veterinary Pathologist and Study Director, providing expert pathology evaluations and leading GLP and non-GLP studies in support of cell and gene therapy programs. This role is critical to our mission of delivering high-quality pharmacology, toxicology, and pharmacokinetics data to accelerate client projects from preclinical stages to IND submission. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams.

The Senior Director, Veterinary Pathologist helps lead aspects of the In Vivo Services team providing scientific leadership and management, ensuring the delivery of top-quality nonclinical services for clients. 

• Conduct comprehensive pathology evaluations, including gross and microscopic examinations, for in vivo and in vitro studies focused on advanced therapies, including cell and gene therapies.
• Serve as Study Director for GLP and non-GLP studies, including preclinical toxicology and pharmacology studies, overseeing study design, execution, data interpretation, and reporting in compliance with GLP regulations and client requirements.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop study protocols, analyze biodistribution, immunogenicity, and viral shedding data, and provide insights on pharmacokinetics and biomarkers.
• Interpret histopathological findings and correlate them with clinical, molecular, and functional data to support translational research and IND-enabling packages.
• Ensure timely delivery of high-quality reports, presentations, and regulatory submissions, maintaining continuous communication with clients and internal stakeholders.
• Contribute to process improvements, method development, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies in our state-of-the-art facility.
• Mentor junior scientists and participate in cross-functional initiatives to drive innovation in advanced therapies.
• Adhere to all safety, quality, and regulatory standards, including IACUC protocols and ethical guidelines for animal research.

Education and Experience:

• DVM or equivalent degree from an accredited veterinary school.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in veterinary pathology, preferably in a CRO, pharmaceutical, or biotech setting with a focus on cell and gene therapies or biologics.
• Proven experience as a Study Director in managing studies performed under Good Laboratory Practices (21 CFR Part 58), including regulatory interactions.
• Track record of contributing to successful IND submissions or peer-reviewed publications in genetic medicine.

Certifications or Licenses:

• Board certification by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP) or equivalent.
• Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology (DABT) certification or equivalent is highly preferred.
• Must be licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the United States.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of regulatory compliance and agencies (USDA, OLAW, GLP, AAALAC). 
• Knowledge of animal care and use and regulatory expectations.
• Strong knowledge of preclinical research techniques, including in vivo models, toxicology assessments, and histopathological analysis.
• Familiarity with bioanalytical assays for immunogenicity, biodistribution, and biomarkers, preferred.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to present complex data to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools for pathology reporting and data analysis.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented, startup culture while managing multiple projects under tight timelines.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, to interact with team members, clients, vendors and other third parties.
• Ability to use digital communication tools (video conferencing, chat platforms etc.) to effectively collaborate with team members in hybrid and remote settings.

 Travel:

• Ability to travel domestically and/or internationally up to 5% of the time, depending on the needs of the project, the client and the company. 
• Ability to accommodate evening, overnight or weekend travel, including potential extended trips to attend training, meetings, conduct fieldwork, or meet with clients.

 On-Site:

• This position requires full-time on-site presence at our Discovery Labs location.

 Immunizations and Screenings:

• This position will require working with animals (e.g. Nonhuman Primates, Rabbits, Rats, Mice).
• This position requires access to lab and lab animal spaces. 
• This position requires proof of negative tuberculosis test and active measles titer. Measles vaccination may be required if titer levels do not show sufficient protection.
• This position will require pre-employment and annual auditory and respiratory clearances.

 Essential Status:

• Essential for Research: This position may be required to go on-site to perform their regular work functions related to continued research during periods of adjusted operations. This would not likely be required to go on-site during a company closure under normal business operations.

 Vision:

• Ability to distinguish between different colors (normal color vision).
• Ability to see clearly at various distances.
• Adequate near vision for reading documents or lab equipment.
• Ability to focus and maintain concentration in tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to work in environments with varying light conditions.

Company Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) Matching
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account
• Paid Time-Off
• Company Paid Holidays
• Personal Floating Holidays
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Life and AD&D insurance (Group & Voluntary)