Director, Antibody Drug Conjugate

SUMMARY/JOB PURPOSE (Basic purpose of the job):

As a member of the biotherapeutics group, the incumbent plays a key role in leading the efforts for advancing the discovery and development of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) at Exelixis by leveraging his/her knowledge of medicinal chemistry. The incumbent supports efforts in discovery research and early process development activities of ongoing and new ADC projects.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead, build and execute antibody on Exelixis' ADC pipeline programs.

• Provides ADC chemistry expertise in state-of-the-art ADC technologies including linkers, payloads, novel conjugation methods, analytical assessments and testing and bring novel ideas to POC.

• Technical expert from Biotherapeutics group on ADC-related internal projects.

• Interacts and collaborates with internal departments and external colleagues to discuss and resolve project needs and issues in research and early development of ADCs.

• Provides support in evaluation of ADC research platforms and preclinical licensing candidates as needed.

• Provides critical scientific/technical data analysis, interpretation of experiments and report writing.

• Design, implement and oversee the execution of in vitro bio-functional assays such as efficacy/bystander/metabolite assessments/bioanalysis/mechanism of action studies/etc. for bioconjugate candidate screening and selection as needed from discovery to lead selection.

• Effectively communicates scientific concepts, study findings and interpretations to multi-disciplinary teams.

• Interacts and collaborates with internal departments to deliver quality and timely findings in support of drug candidate advancement.

• Lead scientific efforts in cancer target identification/validation.

• Manage, supervise, plan and prioritize workflow for laboratory-based scientific staff.

• Follows company intellectual property and compliance policies and practices.

• Complies with company health and safety policies and general laboratory practices.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervises staff, including hiring, scheduling and assigning work, reviewing data, setting criteria for product quality and scalable and developable processes, reviewing performance, and recommends salary increases, promotions, transfers, demotions or terminations.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology or a related discipline and a minimum of thirteen years of related experience; or,

• Master's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology or a related discipline and a minimum of eleven years of related experience; or,

• PhD degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology or a related discipline and a minimum of eight years of related experience; or,

• Equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

• Strong scientific understanding of mechanism of action of cytotoxins and ADCs is essential.

• Development of ADC therapeutics from screening to development candidate nomination.

• Hands on laboratory experience in ADC discovery including critical reagent generation, identification and optimization of ADCs, protein production, purification, analytics and characterization.

• Demonstrated drive for rigorous scientific excellence. Ability to think critically and creatively to identify and solve scientific problems.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of state-of-the-art in different aspects of ADC research including conjugation technologies, linkers and payloads.

• Extensive knowledge of ADC platforms, applications and development. Comprehensive understanding of current approaches and emerging technologies in ADCs.

• Strong background in chemistry and/or biochemistry.

• Knowledge of intellectual property matters, and issues related to ADCs.

• The knowledge to apply advanced scientific and technical principles, theories and concepts, and contribute to the development of new principles and concepts.

• Ability to work independently, excellent time management and organization skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.

• A strong team player.

• Good tracking record and report writing.

• Environment: primarily working in laboratories or in office.

• Exposures encountered, such as hazardous materials, extreme cold.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

Our office is a modern, open-plan space that foster collaborations and creativity. Teams work closely together, sharing ideas and solutions in a supportive atmosphere. We provide all necessary equipment, including dual monitors and ergonomic chairs, to ensure a comfortable workspace.

• Travel required (10%)

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

DISCLAIMER
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.