Manifold Bio builds AI models for protein therapeutic design, trained on proprietary experimental data generated at unprecedented scale. Our in vivo-centric discovery platform produces millions of experimentally validated protein designs per campaign, creating the datasets that make our models possible and our approach uniquely powerful. We combine high-throughput protein engineering with computational design to create antibody-like drugs and other biologics. Our world-class team of protein engineers, biologists, and computational scientists are working together to aim the platform at therapeutic opportunities where precise targeting is the key to overcoming clinical challenges.
The Opportunity
We are seeking an exceptional Senior Director of Biotherapeutics to help guide and mature Manifold's discovery, characterization, and production of shuttled therapeutics. This role spans discovery and nonclinical development, including optimal utilization of internal protein science expertise to run high-throughput in vivo screens, bioengineering strategies to generate best-in-class molecules, and oversight of external contract manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) to develop processes and manufacture drug product for clinical trials.
As a key member of our leadership team, you will contribute to high-level strategy and help build internal resources to support our ambitious growth plans. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a cutting-edge biotechnology company while working with a collaborative, innovative team.
Key Responsibilities
Team Management & Development
- Manage and mentor internal protein sciences and protein engineering teams
- Foster team growth and development through effective leadership and mentorship
- Build and focus teams in a capital-efficient manner to support current and future pipeline needs
Program Execution
- Support the discovery and characterization of shuttled therapeutics via 1-2 matrix project teams, serving as biotherapeutics lead or project lead
- Map out critical path activities through IND-enabling studies and ensure key activities are resourced and executed efficiently
- Set and implement strategy for developability assessment and early-stage de-risking
- Prepare and present data packages for partnering discussions and investor presentations
Strategic Leadership
- Contribute to high-level strategy and key objectives for discovery and development of shuttled therapeutics
- Understand and support strategic growth plans of the organization, helping to build and focus internal resources for success
- Establish development candidate nomination criteria for novel biotherapeutics with particular focus on developability, balancing timelines, budget, and risk
- Identify and outline opportunities for backup molecule discovery and selection
External Partnerships
- Serve as Manifold's protein therapeutic representative for partnered program(s), providing clear communication with biotherapeutics counterparts at partner organizations
- Manage relationships with CDMOs and related CROs, including selection, contract negotiations, and maintaining timelines/budgets
Qualifications
Required Experience & Skills
- Extensive experience in biotherapeutics across a range of protein modalities
- Proven track record engineering antibodies for clinical development
- Expertise with novel modalities and complex formats, including ADCs, tissue-targeted therapeutics, and bispecific antibodies
- Deep knowledge of state-of-the-art protein engineering approaches, including display technologies
- Experience with protein expression systems, purification methods, and characterization including developability assays
- Prior experience liaising with CDMOs, particularly through IND
- Understanding of assay development and typical strategies to select development candidates
- Extensive experience leading both functional teams and matrix project teams
- Strong mentorship and management skills with demonstrated ability to develop team members
- Proven ability to balance diving into details while avoiding micromanagement
- Track record of efficient execution and resource/budget planning
- Demonstrated ownership and accountability in previous roles
- Experience at smaller companies where leaders must directly drive execution and "roll up their sleeves"
- Ability to clearly articulate core competencies and work effectively with external consultants
- Easy to work with with a collaborative mindset
- Brings joy and energy to work and inspires those around them
- Humility and team-first approach; servant leadership style
- Comfortable in fast-moving, agile organizations
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of neuroscience
- Understanding of high-throughput screening or bioanalytical technologies
- Experience with generative AI models for protein and/or oligonucleotide design
We value different experiences and ways of thinking and believe the most talented teams are built by bringing together people of diverse cultures, genders, and backgrounds.
