Head of AI

Position: Head of AI Location: Newark, CAJob Id: 431 # of Openings: 0 Head of AIAbout UsProtagonist Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company built on a proprietary peptide technology platform that has now produced two FDA-approved, first-in-class medicines, generating royalties and milestones from global commercial partnerships with Johnson and Johnson and Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited. ICOTYDE (icotrokinra), licensed to Johnson & Johnson company Janssen Biotech, Inc., is the first and only targeted oral peptide that precisely blocks the Interleukin-23 receptor. ICOTYDE was launched in the U.S. in March 2026 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age or older and is in Phase 3 development for psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. ICOTYDE was jointly discovered by Protagonist and Johnson & Johnson scientists, with Protagonist having primary responsibility for the development of ICOTYDE through Phase 1, and Johnson & Johnson assuming responsibility for further clinical and regulatory development and commercialization. Protagonist also discovered and led research and development through Phase 3 for MIMRYLO (rusfertide), a first-in-class hepcidin mimetic peptide licensed to Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited for worldwide commercialization. MIMRYLO is approved in the U.S. for the treatment of erythrocytosis in adults with PV. The Company also has a number of clinical and preclinical programs based on clinically and commercially validated targets and addressing unmet medical needs, including an oral IL-17 antagonist peptide, anti-obesity dual and triple agonists, an oral hepcidin functional mimetic, and the recently announced IL-4 and amylin discovery programs.More information on Protagonist, its pipeline drug candidates, and clinical studies can be found on the Company's website at .Position SummaryThis role is accountable for delivering production-ready AI solutions that drive measurable business impact, not just strategy or advisory work. The individual will lead the design and deployment of AI-enabled products, platforms, and capabilities that enhance effectiveness and efficiency across R&D, Clinical Development, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Finance, Legal, and Corporate Functions.This role sits at the intersection of technology, science, operations, and governance. The successful candidate will combine strategic vision with hands-on execution, ensuring AI initiatives move beyond experimentation to scalable, durable solutions aligned with the needs of a lean, clinical-stage biotech.First-year priorities:Identify and prioritize 2–3 high-impact AI use cases across the organizationLaunch initial pilots and drive at least one solution into production deploymentEstablish a practical AI operating model, including governance, vendor strategy, and cross-functional engagementBuild early adoption and trust by delivering clear, measurable winsWe are committed to a thriving in-office culture. This role requires being on-site at our office in Newark, CA 4 days a week.ResponsibilitiesEnterprise AI Strategy & VisionDefine and own AI and digital transformation strategy aligned with corporate and scientific prioritiesIdentify high-impact use cases and prioritize based on value, feasibility, and riskDevelop a focused, right-sized roadmap balancing speed and scalabilityAI Product Development & DeploymentLead the design, build, and deployment of AI-enabled products and toolsEnsure solutions are production-ready, adopted, secure, and maintainableDrive delivery of solutions that improve productivity, speed, and decision-making qualityPartner with internal teams and external vendors to build applications across analytics, automation, and decision supportCross‑Functional EnablementEmbed AI into workflows across R&D, Clinical, Regulatory, Quality, Finance, Legal, HR, and ITTranslate business and scientific needs into actionable technical requirementsBuild trust through practical, explainable, and usable solutionsData, Infrastructure & GovernancePartner with IT, Data, Legal, and Compliance teams to ensure robust data architecture, security, and access controlsEstablish AI governance frameworks addressing model validation, bias, data provenance, regulatory scrutiny, and ethical useEnsure compliance with global regulations, data privacy laws, and evolving AI‑related regulatory expectationsLeadership, Team & CultureBuild and lead a high‑performing AI and digital function (internal and/or external), including data scientists, engineers, and product leadersUpskill the broader organization through education, change management, and practical AI literacyServe as a thought partner to the executive leadership team and Board of Directors on AI‑related opportunities and risksMeasurement & Value RealizationDefine success metrics and KPIs for AI initiatives, with clear accountability for outcomesTrack adoption, performance, ROI, and risk across deployed AI solutionsContinuously refine strategy based on results, organizational maturity, and technological advancesRequired Skills & QualificationsBachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (MS, PhD, MBA) strongly preferred in fields such as Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, Life Sciences, or related disciplines10+ years of experience spanning technology, data, or digital transformationExperience building and deploying AI or advanced analytics solutions into production environmentsDemonstrated ability to drive AI adoption across multiple business functionsExperience in heavily regulated industries (biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, financial services, or similar) strongly preferredStrong understanding of modern AI/ML technologies, data platforms, and product development lifecyclesDeep appreciation for governance, ethics, security, and regulatory considerations associated with AIExecutive presence and credibility with C‑suite leaders and Boards of DirectorsExceptional ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear business valuePragmatic, outcomes‑oriented mindset with a bias toward executionHigh integrity, sound judgment, and comfort operating in ambiguous, fast‑moving environmentsPay Range The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $250,000 and $310,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.BenefitsA top priority for Protagonist Therapeutics, Inc. is to provide a robust and comprehensive health and wellness program for our employees and their families. We offer a variety of high-quality coverage and benefit options.Health Care benefits. Protagonist covers 100% of the premium cost for medical, dental, and vision coverage for all full-time employees and their dependents.Flexible Spending Accounts – Healthcare FSA, Dependent Care FSA, Commuter Benefits401(k) PlanFlexible Vacation PolicyLife Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)Short Term & Long Term DisabilityCompany paid lunch and snacks Apply for this Position