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What are the primary challenges faced by a director of drug discovery in managing cross-functional research teams?

A Director of Drug Discovery often manages multidisciplinary teams comprising chemists, biologists, pharmacologists, and data scientists. One of the main challenges is ensuring effective communication and collaboration across these diverse expertise areas to align on project goals and timelines. Balancing scientific innovation with regulatory requirements and resource constraints is also critical. Additionally, prioritizing projects based on pipeline needs while motivating and developing team members is essential for success in this leadership role.

What does a director of drug discovery do?

A Director of Drug Discovery leads and manages teams responsible for identifying and developing new pharmaceutical compounds. They oversee the entire drug discovery process, including target identification, lead optimization, and preclinical testing. Their role often involves setting research priorities, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing budgets, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Additionally, they work closely with other leaders to align scientific goals with business objectives and may interact with external partners or stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of drug discovery?

To excel as a Director of Drug Discovery, you need deep expertise in medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and drug development, typically supported by a PhD in a relevant scientific field and substantial industry experience. Familiarity with drug discovery platforms, high-throughput screening systems, and regulatory requirements is essential, and certification in project management can be beneficial. Leadership, strategic vision, and strong collaboration skills are crucial for guiding multidisciplinary teams and advancing projects. These competencies ensure effective pipeline management, innovation, and successful progression of drug candidates from concept to clinical development.
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Director Drug Discovery jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Drug Discovery job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Drug Discovery Program Director

WuXi Biologics

Natick, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Drug Discovery Program Director
Location: Natick, MA
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced project director (AD, D level) to join the Global Biologics Research Unit (GBR) Integrated Project Service Center to lead our early-stage biologics discovery efforts in biologics therapeutic area. The ideal candidate will work closely with other teams in GBR and be primarily responsible for driving target evaluation, project initiation, and execution to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality pre-clinical candidate molecules in oncology, immunology and other therapeutic areas. The candidate needs to demonstrate integrity, strong leadership, good communication skills and teamwork spirit. He/she will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including BD&L, to support successful asset discovery and out-licensing.
Responsibilities
  • Drive target evaluation, project initiation and project execution as a core scientific leader
  • Lead and oversee a small group of scientists and project leader to support research program execution and in vitro analysis
  • Collaborate with pharmacology group to establish relevant preclinical disease models
  • Ensure high-quality PCC molecule delivery in alignment with strategic timelines
  • Partner with BD&L team to ensure successful out licensing of PCC molecules to partners
  • Foster a PROUD culture across teams

Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Biology, Oncology, Immunology or related field
  • 10+ years of research experience in related disease area
  • 6+ years in biotech/pharma industry
  • Proven track record of leading discovery of biologic PCC molecules in related therapeutic field
  • Deep expertise in biologic drug discovery
  • Ability to organize and communicate complex data sets in a clear and concise manner to key stakeholders from diverse backgrounds
  • Strong attention to detail and troubleshooting skills. Highly motivated, innovative, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills, well-organized and ability to multi-task in a fast-pacing environment.
  • Language: fluent in both Mandarin and English

WuXi Biologics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability

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