Vice President of Preclinical Drug Development

Vice President of Preclinical Drug Development

Kelly Science & Clinical is seeking a Vice President of Preclinical and Clinical Development opportunity with one of our clients, a leading non-profit translational research institute in San Diego, CA. If you are driven by the prospect of translating cutting-edge scientific discoveries into tangible advancements and are poised to advance your career, join us as we pioneer progress in the biotechnology industry. Workplace: Onsite in San Diego, CA Position Title: Vice President, Preclinical and Clinical Development Salary range: 300,000-320,000/year Are you ready to shape the future of medicine at the intersection of world-class biomedical science and breakthrough innovation? Join a cutting-edge nonprofit translational research institute driven to accelerate new drug development and transform patient outcomes, spanning a diverse range of human diseases.

Position Summary

We seek an accomplished and visionary Vice President of Preclinical & Clinical Development to drive strategy and execution across the full continuum of preclinical drug development. This senior, on-site executive will provide scientific and operational leadership for in vivo pharmacology, efficacy, toxicology, and ADME/PK, bringing early-stage therapeutic candidates from discovery through IND filing and into early clinical trials. This is a rare opportunity to lead talented, cross-functional teams in both small molecule and biologics programs, with responsibility for guiding foundational research, developing robust IND-enabling packages, and shaping drug development strategy for a dynamic, high-impact portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Lead scientific and strategic direction for all preclinical pharmacology, efficacy, toxicology, and ADME/PK activities.
• Oversee the integration of preclinical data to drive lead optimization, candidate selection, dose determination, and seamless clinical translation.
• Champion multidisciplinary program advancement by collaborating with chemistry, biology, DMPK, CMC, regulatory, and clinical teams.
• Ensure compliance with GLP standards and regulatory guidelines.
• Prepare and present IND filings, manage regulatory interactions, and contribute meaningfully to development strategy.
• Manage and optimize relationships with CROs, ensuring scientific excellence and operational efficiency across outsourced programs.
• Build, mentor, and inspire high-performing teams, fostering a culture of scientific rigor, collaboration, and accountability.
• Communicate program strategies, results, and recommendations to stakeholders, leadership, and external review boards.
• Provide insightful input to portfolio strategy, program reviews, and key organizational decisions.

Qualifications

• PhD in Pharmacology, Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cell Biology, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience.
• Proven success advancing both small molecules and biologics through preclinical development, IND-enabling studies, and early clinical trials.
• Deep hands-on and leadership experience with in vivo pharmacology, efficacy models, toxicology, and ADME/PK.
• Expertise in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex portfolios in a fast-paced R&D setting.
• Strong knowledge of GLP/GMP regulations and regulatory expectations for IND submissions.
• Extensive experience with CRO management and outsourced research.
• Exceptional scientific judgment, communication, and cross-functional influence.
• Previous senior leadership or executive experience preferred.
• Full-time, on-site presence required.
• Ability to lead large organizations while maintaining hands-on scientific engagement.

Comprehensive Benefits

• Highly competitive compensation, including eligibility for both short-term and long-term incentive bonus programs.
• Employer-contributed retirement plans with optional 403(b) contributions.
• Robust health and welfare benefits, including multiple medical plan options, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and EAP.
• Flexible spending account options (medical/dependent care).
• Generous vacation and sick leave policies.
• Complimentary on-site parking.