Director, LNP Enabled Clinical Asset Development

Merck Group • $237K — $355K *
Billerica, MA 01821In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Advanced degree (PhD, MD, PharmD, or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline.
  • 8-10 years of industry experience in biotech/pharmaceutical R&D, specifically in LNP-based therapeutic development.
  • Experience advancing products through IND and into early clinical development in Immunology or Oncology.
  • Proven leadership in managing cross-functional teams and complex program structures.
  • Strong grasp of regulatory requirements for novel delivery methods and experience in submissions.
  • Exceptional communication skills for presenting scientific concepts to various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

  • Lead strategic planning for LNP-enabled programs in Immunology and Oncology.
  • Direct cross-functional teams through candidate nomination and early clinical phases.
  • Oversee design and optimization of targeted LNP delivery systems.
  • Partner with Translational Sciences on clinical translation plans and assessments.
  • Collaborate with CMC to ensure scalable and compliant manufacturing of LNP products.
  • Contribute to regulatory strategy and author IND/IMPD submission sections.
  • Establish and manage external partnerships to enhance LNP platform capabilities.
  • Provide leadership and mentoring to scientific and operational teams.

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Retirement contributions
  • Additional perquisites
Full Job Description
Your role:

The Director of LNP Discovery and Development will provide scientific, strategic, and operational leadership for the development of clinical-stage assets utilizing lipid nanoparticle (LNP) and targeted LNP (tLNP) delivery technologies. This role supports EMD Serono's Immunology and Oncology therapeutic areas by guiding programs from discovery through early clinical development, ensuring alignment with portfolio objectives.

In this role you will:
  • Lead the strategic planning and execution of therapeutic area development activities for LNP-enabled programs within Immunology and Oncology.
  • Direct -cross functional program leadership teams through candidate nomination, IND-enabling studies, and early clinical phases.
  • Oversee the design, optimization, and characterization of targeted LNP delivery systems to support cell-specific or tissue-specific therapeutic strategies.
  • Partner with Translational Sciences to develop and execute clinical translation plans, including biodistribution, PK/PD, immunogenicity, and mechanism-of-action assessments.
  • Collaborate with CMC functions to ensure robust, scalable, and compliant manufacturing of LNP-based drug products, consistent with CMC requirements for novel modalities.
  • Contribute to regulatory strategy and author sections of IND/IMPD submissions; participate in interactions with global health authorities.
  • Establish and manage external partnerships with academic institutions, technology providers, and CDMOs to advance LNP platform capabilities.
  • Provide leadership, coaching, and development for scientific and operational team members, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.


Who you are:

Required Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (PhD, MD, PharmD, or equivalent) in immunology, oncology, drug delivery, nanotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.
  • Minimum of 8-10 years of industry experience in biotech/pharmaceutical R&D, with demonstrated expertise in LNP-based therapeutic development.
  • Proven experience advancing assets through IND and into early clinical development within Immunology and/or Oncology.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex program matrices.
  • Strong understanding of regulatory expectations for novel delivery modalities and experience contributing to regulatory submissions.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to present complex scientific concepts to internal and external stakeholders.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with targeted drug delivery approaches, including -ligand directed or receptor-specific LNP systems.
  • Prior leadership in developing -immunomodulating or tumor-targeting therapeutics.
  • Demonstrated ability to drive innovation in emerging therapeutic modalities.
  • Experience working in dynamic, fast-paced environments with evolving priorities.


Impact of the Role

The Director will play a critical role in shaping EMD Serono's next generation of Immunology and Oncology therapeutics by advancing precision-engineered LNP and tLNP technologies into the clinic. This position directly contributes to the company's mission to deliver transformative therapies to patients with serious diseases.

Pay Range for this position: $237,300.00 - $355,900.00 The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here.

About Merck Group

Merck Group Careers

There has never been a more opportune time to join Merck Group, a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science, and performance materials. Merck Group offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional aspirations, making it an ideal environment for both seasoned experts and those at the start of their career journey.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck Group, every team member contributes to breakthrough innovations in healthcare, life sciences, and electronics. The company's commitment to diversity and innovation fuels its leadership in various sectors, driving growth and transformation globally. Merck Group’s career paths are diverse, offering positions that challenge individuals to use their skills in new ways every day, supported by robust training programs and development opportunities.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Merck Group is not just about jobs; it's about building a career. With a vast array of positions, from research and development to marketing and sales, the company is keen on hiring and nurturing talent to lead industry transformation. Merck Group’s dedication to professional growth is evident in its comprehensive benefits package and performance management processes that aim to maximize individual potential.

Internship Programs

Starting with an internship at Merck Group can be a pivotal step in securing a prosperous career. Interns gain invaluable industry experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and engaging in projects that offer real-world applications of their studies. Internships often lead to full-time employment opportunities, providing a seamless transition from education to professional employment.

Inclusive Culture and Leadership

Merck Group is proud of its inclusive culture that embraces diversity and fosters an environment where all employees can thrive. The company’s leadership is committed to creating a workplace where diverse ideas lead to innovative outcomes. Merck Group also offers diversity training to ensure all team members are equipped to contribute to the company’s inclusive goals.

Networking and Professional Development

Employees at Merck Group are encouraged to engage in networking and professional development activities that enhance their career trajectories. The company hosts various networking events, workshops, and seminars that are designed to hone skills and foster connections within the industry. Leadership development programs are also a cornerstone, preparing employees for future roles of increased responsibility.

Stay Connected with Merck Group Careers

Interested candidates can explore open positions that match their skills and interests through the Merck Group careers page. The company values curious, creative, and solution-driven team players who are eager to make an impact.

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Merck Group is continuously looking for individuals who are ready to drive innovation and lead in the global marketplace. Whether through full-time positions, internships, or leadership roles, Merck Group offers a career path filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and leadership.
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Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
* Ladders Estimates

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