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Job Title: Director of Drug Discovery

Job Description

We are seeking a highly skilled Director to join our pharmaceutical research team. This role involves leading and running the drug discovery program while interfacing with clients and overseeing studies. The position includes managing a team of approximately five direct reports. This is a director-level opening, but the title could vary from senior manager to executive director depending on experience, requiring over 15 years of professional experience.

Responsibilities

+ Lead the design and execution of transient transfection protocols for genes from various species in mammalian cell lines to test research compounds.

+ Oversee the construction, engineering, and characterization of stable and transient mammalian cell lines in alignment with project goals.

+ Develop, validate, and supervise in vitro cell-based assays to assess cellular function and pharmacological properties.

+ Collaborate with the chemistry team to develop structure-activity relationship strategies.

+ Apply expertise in drug discovery and development, integrating cellular models into preclinical candidate evaluation.

+ Mentor and supervise research associates and junior scientists, providing guidance in experimental design and troubleshooting.

+ Ensure effective communication with project stakeholders and contribute specialized scientific insight during meetings and reviews.

+ Generate, review, and deliver comprehensive technical reports and project documentation consistent with ALCOA+ requirements.

+ Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure data integrity throughout all phases of research.

+ Adhere to established safety protocols and contribute to a culture of operational excellence.

Essential Skills

+ Ph.D. or equivalent experience in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.

+ Proven industry experience in transient transfection systems, construction of mammalian cell lines, and in vitro assay development.

+ Significant experience in drug discovery and preclinical development.

+ Excellent track record in scientific report writing and data presentation.

+ Strong supervision and mentorship capabilities.

+ Ability to work independently and adapt to fast-paced, collaborative environments.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

+ Strong problem-solving skills with attention to experimental detail and data quality.

+ Outstanding verbal and written communication abilities.

+ Entrepreneurial and results-driven, able to prioritize and manage multiple projects.

+ Proficient in integrating new technologies and methodologies to advance research objectives.

Work Environment

The position is based in a brand new biologic lab, offering a collaborative and innovative work environment. Our facility boasts no attrition in the past three years and is involved in exciting new collaborations and projects.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $95.00 - $105.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Cranbury,NJ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 8, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.