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5A
Principal Scientist/Director, Translational Pharmacology
5AM VenturesEmeryville, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 24 Apr 2026
About the role
We are seeking a highly motivated, hands-on Director of Translational Pharmacology to lead and drive preclinical pharmacology efforts across our pipeline. This individual will play a central, decision-making role in translating innovative science into rigorous, in vivo proof-of-concept and clinically actionable pharmacology strategies.
- Lead the design, execution, and interpretation of preclinical pharmacology studies supporting drug discovery and development programs
- Develop and apply quantitative PK/PD models, integrating pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and chemical kinetics to guide compound optimization and dosing strategies
- Design and oversee in vivo studies, including selection and development of appropriate animal models
- Drive rigorous data analysis, including statistical evaluation and modeling to inform decision-making
- Translate preclinical findings into clinically relevant hypotheses and development strategies
- Collaborate closely with teams to optimize drug candidates and delivery systems
- Contribute to regulatory documentation and strategy (IND-enabling studies, study reports, etc.)
- Build and manage relationships with CROs and external collaborators
Qualifications
- PhD, MD, or equivalent in pharmacology, biomedical sciences, or related field
- Significant experience in preclinical pharmacology within biotech or pharmaceutical settings
- Experience in choosing appropriate animal models
- Deep expertise in PK/PD modeling, with strong grounding in chemical kinetics and quantitative biology
- Proven experience designing studies to evaluate drug combinations and synergy, including application of factorial experimental design Demonstrated experience designing and interpreting in vivo pharmacology studies
- Experience in advancing preclinical candidates through IND-enabling studies and contributing meaningfully to IND submissions
- Strong statistical and data analysis skills
- Experience in metabolic diseases, particularly obesity and/or diabetes, strongly preferred
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