Director Microbiology

Qpex Biopharma, Inc • San Diego, CA

1d • $210,000 - $250,000

About The Position

We are seeking an accomplished and strategic Director of Microbiology to lead our microbiology function within the Research and Discovery team. This role will play a critical part in driving the scientific and operational strategy for microbiological research supporting our Phase 1 clinical programs. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Microbiology or a related field, a proven track record in pharmaceutical industry settings, and experience managing high-performing teams in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of industry experience in microbiology within a pharmaceutical, biotech, or related setting, including leadership roles.
• Proven experience supporting Phase 1 or early-stage clinical programs.
• Demonstrated success in directing research and discovery activities.
• Strong leadership and people management skills; experience building and developing high-functioning scientific teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Effective communicator with the ability to present complex scientific information clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

• Experience developing antibiotic combination therapies, especially beta-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor programs or synergy-based approaches.
• Deep understanding of resistance mechanisms in Gram-negative pathogens (P. aeruginosa, Acinetobacter, Enterobacterales) and approaches to overcoming them.
• Direct experience working with non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), including M. abscessus or M. avium complex models.
• Proven success advancing antibacterial agents through preclinical and IND-enabling stages.
• Experience with translational microbiology and PK/PD modeling to support dose selection.
• Familiarity with regulatory expectations for microbiology data packages in IND/NDA submissions.
• Background in molecular or genomic characterization of resistance and target validation.
• Demonstrated experience managing CRO collaborations and multi-site external research partnerships.
• Knowledge of BSL-2 and BSL-3 containment standards and microbiological safety practices.
• Publication record or conference presentations in antimicrobial research or drug resistance mechanisms.

Responsibilities

• Lead microbiology research efforts that support early-phase clinical programs, including microbial characterization, mechanism-of-action studies, and assay development.
• Drive the strategic direction of the microbiology function in alignment with overall R&D and corporate objectives.
• Oversee daily operations of the microbiology lab, ensuring scientific rigor, compliance with GLP/GMP standards, and safety protocols.
• Manage and mentor a team of scientists and research associates; foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (e.g., Regulatory, CMC, Clinical, QA) to ensure microbiological data supports preclinical and clinical milestones.
• Serve as the microbiology subject matter expert in regulatory submissions and interactions with external partners, collaborators, and agencies.
• Stay current with emerging trends and technologies in microbiology to inform strategic decision-making and maintain a competitive edge.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree