Research Scientist, Neuroscience

About The Role

At Xaira Therapeutics we seek an accomplished neuroscientist to identify and validate potential targets and lead a team to perform in vitro and in vivo research to characterize hit and lead matter to enable identification of drug candidate(s).

The research scientist will develop and execute a neuroscience therapeutic strategy in alignment with corporate goals and key scientific objectives. You will lead team members in identifying and validating targets, designing and performing in vitro and in vivo assays, and analyzing results. You will liaise with molecular design and generation, toxicology, immunology, bioanalytical, and clinical development colleagues. As programs advance, you will develop plans to address and reduce risks in collaboration with key stakeholders to help progress into clinical studies.

You will manage project activities and professional development of a team of scientists; advance scientific expertise within the neuroscience function and collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to advance programs from research to development. You will also develop forward looking strategies to identify and implement novel assays, measurements, and technologies that increase throughput, quality, and reproducibility of research results. You will ensure the quality and effectiveness of key project results through sound design, early risk assessments, and implementation of backup strategies. You will identify and integrate emerging scientific trends from internal and external sources into short-term organizational objectives. In addition, you will be responsible for data management, data QC, and technical report writing; author regulatory documents in compliance with regulations, including protocols, study reports, relevant sections of investigator brochures and INDs, and other similar documents, and present program updates and research strategies to functional and non-functional leaders as well as potential and existing partners.

About You

You have a strong background in neuroscience, experience in electrophysiology, neuronal isolation/derivation and culture, and a proven record of successfully leading diverse project teams to produce novel therapeutics. You have experience with project conception, strategic planning, budgeting, and both leading as well as contributing to cross-functional and matrixed teams. Additionally, you have a working knowledge of various research areas including neuroscience, biochemistry, toxicology, and histology.

You can lead by influence and maintain a productive, collaborative, and inclusive laboratory environment in compliance with regulatory and company expectations. A key role for the position is partnering with senior management to conceive and provide strategic direction and vision for neuroscience-related programs while leading a team responsible for technical execution. Strong communication skills are essential, as the candidate must be able to tailor interactions with technical teams and represent the program and strategy to executive-level management.

Qualifications

• PhD and postdoctoral studies in Biology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry, or equivalent field with a robust publication record in leading scientific journals.
• 5 - 10+ years of work experience in biotech or pharma with target identification/validation and drug discovery and development.
• Extensive experience with neuropharmacological assays, focusing on electrophysiology and in vivo pharmacology in an industrial research environment, with 5-10+ years of experience managing teams and cross-functional projects.
• Proven track record of driving early to late-stage development programs.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in neuroscience, both central and peripheral.
• Conversant in ion channel biochemistry, toxicology and histological assays and methods.
• Extremely organized and experienced with documentation of experimental plans, budget, timelines, and technical reports.
• Experience in authoring and QCing technical reports and regulatory documents.
• Highly organized and self-directed, capable of leading multiple complex research programs in parallel.
• Detailed oriented and precise in written and oral communication.
• Ability to critically analyze data and lead teams to solve issues and make best strategic decisions.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with diverse groups within the organization and external partners.
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical development processes, including lead characterization, CMC considerations, and GxP tox & safety.
• Experience evaluating internal and external research and development programs.
• Proven team leadership and management abilities, including experience mentoring, guiding, supervising, and developing scientific personnel with various backgrounds and training levels.
• Ability to create an inclusive environment where diverse ideas, viewpoints and backgrounds are valued; willingness and ability to lead inclusively and demonstrate a commitment to listen and consider all points of view.
  
  

Compensation

The specific compensation package for each role depends on factors including experience, qualifications and level. We anticipate the range for this role to be $150,000 to $230,000 per year.

Xaira Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer. We thrive on diversity and collaboration, and we welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.