Scientific Director (tRNA Biotherapeutics)

TL;DR

Scientific Director (tRNA Biotherapeutics): Leading the scientific strategy and R&D roadmap for a pioneering RNA-based therapeutic platform with an accent on translating RNA biology discoveries into clinically meaningful therapies. Focus on driving programs from early proof-of-concept through IND-enabling studies and optimizing AAV-based delivery systems.

Location: Remote (Germany)

Company

A biotech company developing a cutting-edge tRNA therapeutic platform aimed at treating rare genetic and neuromuscular diseases.

What you will do

• Define and lead the scientific strategy and R&D roadmap from discovery through preclinical development and IND-enabling studies.
• Oversee dual tRNA modalities (elevation and suppression) across multiple therapeutic programs for rare and neuromuscular diseases.
• Lead translational research and supervise preclinical studies, including in vivo/in vitro work and biomarker development.
• Drive optimization of AAV-based constructs, vector design, capsid selection, and synthetic delivery systems.
• Oversee IND-enabling activities, including toxicology, biodistribution, dose-finding, and regulatory study design.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with CMC, regulatory, clinical, and IP teams, while managing academic partnerships.

Requirements

• PhD or equivalent advanced degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Neuroscience, or a related life sciences field.
• 8–12+ years of experience in biotech or pharmaceutical R&D with progressive scientific leadership responsibilities.
• Strong expertise in RNA biology, translational mechanisms, or gene therapy.
• Hands-on experience with AAV vector design and preclinical development workflows.
• Proven track record working with in vivo and in vitro disease models, including rodent models and ideally non-human primates.
• Experience advancing programs toward IND-enabling stages, including toxicology and regulatory study design.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with LNP or alternative delivery technologies for nucleic acid therapeutics.
• Experience in rare diseases or platform-based therapeutic development.

Culture & Benefits

• High-impact leadership role shaping a pioneering tRNA-based platform from discovery to early clinical readiness.
• Flexible, remote-first working model with international collaboration.
• Significant strategic influence over research direction and pipeline expansion.
• Entrepreneurial environment with direct involvement in company growth, partnerships, and fundraising.
• Mission-driven focus on developing transformative therapies for patients with high unmet medical needs.