Research Program Lead, CNS Cell Therapy

JOB PURPOSE

This position will report directly to the Head of CNS Cell Therapy. The successful candidate will possess a wide variety of central neuroscience capability, from the bench through IND submission. The successful candidate will have three primary responsibilities: (1) along with Head of CNS Cell Therapy, develop cross functional CNS strategy to support IND (2) drive cross functional program teams through IND (3) advise others on CNS cell biology as needed.  The position will also require consistently close communication and interaction with other members of the Sana team, like technical operations, technical sciences and other cell therapy and gene therapy teams.    

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Strategic lead for CNS program team
  • Broad expertise in nerve and cell biology, with a full understanding on central nervous system disease areas in translational research
  • Full life cycle expertise running research through IND
  • Prioritization of key project objectives, go/no go decisions, data review based on key milestones and program risks, implementation of mitigations plans and development of product development contingency plans
  • Working closely with the project team this individual develops program strategic plans to achieve corporate goals and is accountable for team deliverables
  • Working with the project manager, coordinates documentation and archiving of project deliverables and key decisions
  • Communicates effectively across all functional areas so that deliverables and interdependencies are clear
  • Able to exert influence on program direction and needs with key stakeholders and leadership
  • Proactively identifies challenges, risks and prepares team with mitigations to navigate team through technical and program challenges as they arise

QUALIFICATIONS
  • PhD in Biology or related field or MD, MD/PhD
  • Highly collaborative and effective in working with Program teams
  • 10+ years combined academic and life sciences experience with 5+ years experience leading cross-functional development teams including IND submissions
  • Exceptional leadership, interpersonal communications, across all levels within the organization
  • Ability to represent program to key internal and external stakeholders through oral presentations
  • Excellent judgement in making trade-off decisions for program scope, costs and strategy
  • Fosters collaboration and positive team environment
  • High energy and drive to program success