Director of the Early Translation Branch, Division of Preclinical Innovation (DPI).

The Early Translation Branch is a home to approximately 60 scientists and trainees with diverse backgrounds including biology, chemistry, and informatics; and enjoys access to state-of-the-art resources including robotic high-throughput screening facilities, sample management, cheminformatics, medicinal chemistry, and others. The Branch is a successor of the NCATS Chemical Genomics Center (NCGC) and seeks to understand the underlying principles driving the translation of basic research discoveries into tangible improvements in human health by focusing on the early stages of this process.  Efforts include the functionation of the human genome through discovery of diverse tools, such as small molecules, antibodies, constrained peptides, and others, by way of screening, directed evolution, and rational computational design methods, including machine learning and artificial intelligence, development of innovative methods for assaying biological activity of novel gene targets and pathways, and derivation of general principles governing the interaction between the biological and chemical spaces. The incumbent is responsible for planning and directing a broad and comprehensive program in discovery of pharmacological tools to probe the function of the human genome and to understand and improve the processes underlying said discovery. NCATS is seeking individuals with scientific, administrative, and leadership credentials who can lead and manage research activities in the above referenced areas, as well as consult with the NCATS Scientific Director on the future progress and growth of these respective research areas.

Qualifications:  Applicants must possess a doctoral degree (MD, PhD or equivalent) and a strong background in the biomedical sciences as well as a record of accomplishment in academic and/ or biopharmaceutical preclinical translation with demonstrated experience leading multi-disciplinary research groups in technology and therapeutic/diagnostic/intervention discovery.  The ideal candidate will be an internationally-recognized and highly accomplished researcher in multiple aspects of preclinical translation, with a particular interest and accomplishment in novel technology and paradigm development.  S/he must have expertise and accomplishment in multiple aspects of preclinical translation from target validation through early development of therapeutics, including but not limited to small molecules, biologics, and antisense oligos, and/or diagnostics.  Experience in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical or related industries is desirable, but not required.  The candidate must have demonstrated experience in directing and managing a large and scientifically diverse research program, with well-honed administrative and interpersonal skills to meet the demands of both research and program direction, and the ability to influence, inspire, and empower scientists and administrative staff to be creative, self-motivated, entrepreneurial achievers who deliver on the mission of the organization through individual and collaborative initiative. Finally, s/he must be a collaborative leader with demonstrated experience in engaging a broad range of stakeholders, such as scientists from different disciplines, patient advocacy groups, government agencies, and other nonprofit organizations. Open to both U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens.  

Salary and Benefits:   The salary range is commensurate with experience and accomplishments; a full Civil Service package of benefits (including retirement, health, life and long-term care insurance, Thrift Savings Plan participation, etc.) is available.  The National Institutes of Health inspires public confidence in our science by maintaining high ethical principles.  NIH employees are subject to Federal government-wide regulations and statutes as well as agency-specific regulations described at the NIH Ethics website: http://ethics.od.nih.gov

How to Apply: Please submit a cover letter describing your interest in the position including a career synopsis (1-3 pages); statement of research interests (1-2 pages); a current curriculum vitae and complete bibliography; and the names and contact information of five references to ETBSeniorScientist@nih.gov. Please include in your CV a description of mentoring and outreach activities in which you have been involved, especially those involving women and persons from racial/ethnic or other groups that are underrepresented in biomedical research.  Questions regarding the application process should be addressed to the email listed above.  Application packages will only be accepted electronically and must be received between January 27th- March 11^th.