Associate Director, Innovation Lab

At Tarsus, we seek inspired individuals who are motivated to grow professionally while helping build a best-in-class pharmaceutical company with a differentiated approach. Join us in advancing our mission to address unmet needs by applying proven science and emerging technologies to transform patient care.

About the Role

Tarsus Pharmaceuticals is seeking an experienced and visionary Associate Director of Innovation Lab to drive internal innovation and lead the creation of transformative eye care pipeline programs.

This individual will partner closely with cross-functional teams and executive leadership to advance programs through early development milestones. They will also engage external partners and key opinion leaders to identify and evaluate novel solutions for unmet needs. A critical aspect of the role is guiding cross-functional teams to create program plans that define proof-of-concept milestones, resource requirements, and efficient paths from ideation stage and pre-clinical proof of concept to advancement to clinical development.

The ideal candidate brings both strategic and hands-on experience from a biotech or pharmaceutical environment with a nimble, entrepreneurial spirit, with a track record of rapidly building and scaling early-stage programs by integrating lean internal teams with external capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with executive and cross-functional leadership to drive effective decision making and innovation portfolio management.
• Define target product profiles reflecting mechanism of action, PK/PD, clinical, regulatory, and commercial success considerations, and competitive landscape.
• Create project plans with timelines, budgets and decision frameworks aligned with rapid progress decision frameworks aligned with rapid progress.
• Manage internal lab technical growth for high impact execution
• Build and manage external scientific, clinical, and business relationships, including supporting contracting and logistics.
• Partner on intellectual property strategy, including diligence and filings.
• Foster a culture of innovation, translation, and entrepreneurship within Tarsus.

Factors for Success

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences: biochemistry, immunology or a related field; advanced degree (Master’s, PhD, or MD) preferred.
• 8+ years of experience (PhD/MD), 10+ years (Master’s), or 12+ years (Bachelor’s) in biotech or pharmaceutical innovation.
• Demonstrated experience leading early drug innovation, discovery and development teams.
• Strong interpersonal and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to operate effectively at both strategic and tactical levels.
• Eye care experience is a plus.
• Decision Making - Identifies, analyzes, and resolves issues or challenges effectively and efficiently. Demonstrates creativity, decisiveness, and the capacity to implement solutions in a structured and outcome-oriented manner. Navigates uncertainty when there’s not a blueprint for success. Owns their decisions and actions.
• Collaboration and Team Building - Builds strong relationships and networks. Is curious about and respectful of different points of view. Cultivates a safe space for discussion readily engaging in group dialogue and debate. Puts the team first.
• Outcome Driven - Clearly defines mutual expectations of self and others in a team setting. Adapts to changing business needs. Is determined and resourceful in finding solutions, even when faced with obstacles. Takes appropriate actions, including calculated risks, to ensure obligations are met.

Additional Details

• The position will be based in our beautiful Irvine office, complete with onsite gym, pool, snacks, drinks, and occasional catered meals. We provide a hybrid work environment; remote flexibility is available.
• Reports directly to the VP, Innovation.
• Up to 20% travel may be required.
• Tarsus offers a collaborative culture grounded in commitment to patients, innovation, and teamwork, along with a modern office environment and employee amenities

At Tarsus, we understand the importance of attracting and retaining top talent. The expected base pay range for this position is $150,000 - $210,000 plus bonus, stock equity, and comprehensive benefits. The base pay range reflects the target range for this position, but individual pay will be determined by additional factors such as job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. Our benefits include health, dental and vision insurance benefits to ensure your well-being. We believe in work-life balance and offer generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days. For more details regarding Tarsus benefits, please visit:

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Tarsus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.