Director Microbiology

Qpex Biopharma • San Diego, CA

1d • $210,000 - $250,000

About The Position

Overview 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. Detailed Description 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.

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