Opportunity OverviewThe Director of Exploratory Research will drive innovative research initiatives that advance Rhythm's understanding of disease biology and inform future therapeutic opportunities. Reporting to the VP, Nonclinical Research, this individual will play a critical role in identifying and validating high-value opportunities for pipeline expansion and lifecycle management, deepening understanding of Rhythm's assets and indications, and supporting portfolio programs. The Director will lead the design, execution, and interpretation of mechanistic and translational research studies that generate actionable insights across discovery and early-stage development programs. The successful candidate will be a creative and rigorous scientist with expertise in neuro/endocrine biology, pharmacology, and translational research, as well as a proven ability to operate effectively in a fully outsourced research model. This role offers an opportunity to drive new scientific directions, contribute to pipeline evolution, and serve as a scientific leader while working closely with the broader Research team to generate high-impact scientific insights that bring transformative therapies to patients with rare neuroendocrine diseases.
Responsibilities and Duties- Drive the identification, prioritization, and execution of exploratory biology initiatives through CROs, academic collaborators, and external scientific partners.
- Lead the design, oversight, execution, and interpretation of mechanistic and pharmacological studies (in vitro and in vivo) to support exploratory research efforts and early-stage nonclinical development programs.
- Develop innovative scientific hypotheses and research approaches that advance understanding of disease biology, therapeutic mechanisms, and opportunities for future pipeline evolution.
- Evaluate emerging scientific opportunities, technologies, and external assets that may complement Rhythm's research and development objectives.
- Integrate data across pharmacology, physiology, pathology, translational sciences, genetics, and clinical research to support strategic decision-making and scientific problem solving.
- Lead cross-functional exploratory research and discovery-stage project teams, ensuring alignment of objectives, timelines, resources, and scientific priorities.
- Propose, develop, validate, and optimize fit-for-purpose assays and experimental approaches to address key biological questions and advance research programs.
- Collaborate with Data Sciences and other functions to translate observational, clinical, or biomarker findings into experimentally testable hypotheses.
- Generate clear, actionable conclusions and communicate scientific findings effectively to senior leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.
- Ensure scientific rigor, reproducibility, and data quality within a fully outsourced research model.
- Build and manage productive relationships with CROs, academic collaborators, key opinion leaders, and external experts.
- Operate independently across multiple concurrent projects, proactively managing priorities and delivering results in a fast-paced and evolving environment.
- Stay at the forefront of emerging science, technologies, and therapeutic approaches relevant to rare neuroendocrine diseases.
- Contribute scientific leadership as programs advance through nonclinical development, with opportunities to assume increasing responsibility across later-stage development activities.
Qualifications and Skills- PhD (or equivalent) in neuroscience, endocrinology, pharmacology, or related field
- 10+ years of relevant experience, including at least 5 years in biotech or pharmaceutical R&D
- Demonstrable expertise in neuroendocrine biology, metabolic disease, or CNS-peripheral signaling pathways
- Extensive track record of designing, executing, and interpreting studies independently
- Ability to operate effectively in a fully outsourced / CRO-based research model
- Familiarity with both small molecule and peptide agonist modalities and understanding of non-clinical pharmacology principles
- Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize workloads
- Excellent verbal and written communication with the ability to influence across the organization
- Creative, innovative, strategic, problem-solving approach
- Independent self-starter, but with an ability to be a strong team player in a highly collaborative environment
- Demonstrated ability to independently lead multiple scientific initiatives simultaneously while balancing competing priorities in a dynamic environment.
- Experience in integrating multidisciplinary data to generate translational insights and guide program strategy.
- Track record of developing novel experimental approaches, assays, or disease models to address complex biological questions.
This role is based out of our corporate office in Boston, Massachusetts. Rhythm operates in a hybrid-work model. Candidates applying must be willing and able to be in the Boston office in coordination with their department and business needs. This role may involve some travel.
The expected salary range for this position is $182,000 - $275,000. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, level, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and company performance. This role may be eligible for benefits and other compensation such as restricted stock units.
