Head of Discovery
$100,000–$150,000 year
On-site · Malvern, Pennsylvania, United States
Job Summary
The Head of Discovery at Ocugen will lead the discovery research strategy focusing on gene therapy, ensuring programs are human genetics-grounded, and creating a high-performing team. Responsibilities include target validation, integrating emerging technologies, leading cross-functional collaborations, and advancing biomarker strategies for IND-enabling studies. Candidates should have a PhD or MD/PhD, over 15 years of relevant research experience, a history of scientific innovation, and expertise in human genetics and genomics.
Required Qualifications
- PhD (or MD/PhD) in relevant life sciences molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, neuroscience, ophthalmology/visual sciences, or biomedical sciences with a focus on gene therapy or rare disease.
- 15+ years of research experience in discovery and early translational settings, with increasing leadership responsibility; direct experience in ophthalmology, retinal disease, or neurological disease research is required.
- Demonstrated success leading discovery teams that advanced candidates through preclinical development, including IND-enabling packages for gene therapy or genetic medicine programs.
- Track record of scientific innovation with significant contributions (peer-reviewed publications, patents, or novel platforms) in the areas of gene therapy, ocular biology, neurodegeneration, or rare genetic disease.
- Ability to work collaboratively and influence across functions, with demonstrated experience translating genetic and molecular insights into therapeutically actionable programs.
- Deep expertise in human genetics and genomics, including interpretation of variant data, GWAS findings, and genotype-phenotype correlations relevant to ophthalmic and neurological conditions.
- Strong foundation in molecular and cellular biology techniques, including gene editing, viral vector biology, transcriptomics, proteomics, and iPSC-based disease modeling.
- Experience in biomarker discovery, assay development, and translational biomarker strategy to support IND submissions and early clinical trials.
Desired Qualifications
- Experience at a clinical-stage company transitioning discoveries to human studies, ideally within gene therapy, ocular medicine, or rare neurological disease.
- Broad modality experience, including gene therapy, biologics, or small molecules, with primary depth in AAV-mediated gene therapy for retinal or CNS applications.
- Expertise in ocular biology and retinal disease mechanisms strongly preferred, including inherited retinal dystrophies, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and neurodegeneration with ophthalmic manifestations.
- Experience managing external research collaborations and academic partnerships with leading ophthalmology and neuroscience research institutions and retinal disease foundations.
- Familiarity with regulatory expectations for gene therapy IND filings, including FDA CBER guidance and relevant ICH guidelines for advanced therapies.
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