Senior Director, Preclinical Development (Gene Therapy)

Senior Director, Preclinical Development – Gene Therapy (Liver Focus)

Job Description:

An innovative biotechnology company is seeking a Senior Director to lead advanced preclinical development activities, with a strong focus on progressing programs through IND-enabling studies and regulatory advancement.

This is a senior leadership role that combines scientific excellence, deep development expertise, and strategic business acumen. The position includes close collaboration with external partners, CROs, and global pharmaceutical companies.

Location: Center District, Israel.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the strategy and execution of preclinical development programs in the gene therapy space
• Drive the transition from early research to advanced preclinical development, including studies in large animal models
• Oversee IND-enabling programs through regulatory submissions (FDA)
• Direct and manage PK/PD, toxicology, biodistribution, and efficacy studies
• Lead and manage external research activities end-to-end, including oversight of CROs
• Serve as a key interface with regulatory functions, including preparation of FDA submission materials
• Collaborate with pharmaceutical partners and strategic stakeholders
• Support business development activities, including partnerships, licensing discussions, and negotiations
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing scientific team

Requirements:

• PhD in Life Sciences (Pharmacology, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field) – required
• 8+ years of industry experience in preclinical drug development – required
• Demonstrated experience working with large animal models – required
• Hands-on experience leading IND-enabling studies and regulatory submissions to the FDA – required
• Proven track record managing CROs and outsourcing preclinical studies – required
• Demonstrated transition from basic research to applied preclinical development – required
• Experience in liver diseases and/or metabolic disorders – advantage
• Experience in gene therapy, mRNA, or LNP technologies – advantage
• Experience working with pharma companies and strategic partnerships – advantage
• Exposure to licensing, due diligence, or investment processes – advantage

About us

'Totsaot' is a recruiting company, Specializing in professional and personal placement for jobs and companies in the fields of pharma, biotech, research, medical equipment, and medical diagnostic.

We believe that everything starts with personal acquaintance.

It is important for us to get to know you, to understand your needs and ambitions, and match you with the right job at the right company for you to grow in.

How can Totsaot help you?

• We guarantee you complete discretion throughout the entire process.
• We will give you tools for success, such as feedback on a job interviews, simulations to skills test, improving your resume and more.
• If you wish, we can connect you to other jobs in the future that are relevant to your desire.

We invite you to follow us on 'Totsaot' website, Facebook, Telegram and LinkedIn. We will be happy to guide, advise and help you realize your professional ambitions on the way to finding your next job.