Director I, siRNA Discovery Research
About The Position
This role will serve as a key scientific and strategic leader within BGM, shaping AbbVie's siRNA discovery portfolio and enabling the successful translation of RNAi technologies into differentiated therapeutic candidates across multiple Therapeutic Areas. Lead the advancement and expansion of a cross-therapeutic siRNA portfolio by leveraging and evolving AbbVie's established RNAi capabilities, driving asset strategy, and partnering closely with Therapeutic Areas to identify, prioritize, and advance high-value opportunities. This leader will direct a multidisciplinary team of 10+ scientists and drive scientific, portfolio, and organizational decisions that accelerate the progression of siRNA medicines from concept to development candidates.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field, or a related discipline, with 10+ years of biotech/pharmaceutical industry experience.
- Deep expertise in siRNA therapeutics, oligonucleotide chemistry, RNA biology, genetic medicines, or related drug discovery modalities.
- Demonstrated track record of leading discovery-stage programs and advancing therapeutic assets through key decision points.
- Experience building and leading multidisciplinary scientific teams, including direct people management and talent development.
- Proven ability to influence and partner effectively across matrix organizations, including Therapeutic Areas, Safety, CMC, and Clinical Development.
- Strong external scientific presence with experience establishing productive collaborations with academic and industry partners.
Nice To Haves
- Experience advancing siRNA or ASO programs into development.
- Knowledge of oligonucleotide delivery technologies and emerging RNA-targeting approaches.
Responsibilities
- Define and execute the strategic roadmap for siRNA discovery capabilities, aligning platform investments and portfolio priorities with the needs of AbbVie's core Therapeutic Areas to build a sustainable pipeline of differentiated genetic medicine opportunities.
- Partner closely with Therapeutic Area leaders to identify, evaluate, and prioritize therapeutic opportunities, applying rigorous scientific and business criteria to focus resources on programs with the highest probability of success and impact.
- Lead the advancement of early discovery siRNA programs from concept through candidate-enabling validation, utilizing milestone-based decision making, clear Go/No-Go criteria, and a fast-fail, fast-learn approach to portfolio progression.
- Serve as the primary scientific and strategic interface between BGM and Therapeutic Areas, ensuring alignment on program objectives, timelines, risks, and development strategies while fostering productive cross-functional partnerships.
- Drive scientific innovation by integrating emerging advances in RNAi technologies, including oligonucleotide chemistry, delivery systems, and targeting approaches, while establishing external collaborations that strengthen AbbVie's competitive position in the field.
- Recruit, develop, and lead a high-performing multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, accountability, and collaboration, while representing BGM discovery efforts across governance and strategic leadership forums.
Benefits
- paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick)
- medical/dental/vision insurance
- 401(k)
- long-term incentive programs
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
