Director, Research Program Management

About Ananke Therapeutics

Ananke Therapeutics is a well-funded, early-stage platform biotechnology company based in Cambridge, MA. In ancient Greek mythology, Ananke was the goddess of fate and necessity. At Ananke Therapeutics, we seek to modulate RNA fate with a novel therapeutic approach capable of transforming the druggable target landscape and providing life-saving medicines for patients in need. We are working at the cutting edge of RNA therapeutics to architect a best-in-class, novel drug discovery engine leveraging modern approaches in biology, chemistry, and technology.

The Role

We are building a world-class foundational team, that is fully enabled to drive science and build company culture in collaboration with a highly experienced leadership team. Reporting directly to the Chief Scientific Officer, you will be responsible for partnering across internal and external teams to oversee our programs from early discovery through IND.

How You Will Contribute

As Director, Research Program Management you will act as an integrator across Discovery Biology and Drug Discovery. In this critical role, you will provide both strategic and operational insights to enable the successful progression and execution of our research programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and coordinate resource and budget planning across research to ensure adequate resources are applied based on priorities.
• Act as an integrator and facilitate effective science-based business decisions including the development of scenarios, highlighting interdependencies, and downstream impact such as effects on critical path.
• Drive and manage relationships with CROs by proactively connecting with the internal team and CROs on timelines, progress, roadblocks, and maintaining accountability.
• Management of the operations strategy, timelines, cost, risk assessment and mitigation associated with the Research Plan.
• Partner with CSO, EVP of Drug Discovery, VP of Discovery Biology, and internal project team leaders to develop an integrated and holistic Research Plan.

Required Experience & Skills

• Ability to lead the development of critical path analysis and scenario planning
• Ph.D. in the life sciences
• Expertise in early discovery and drug development through IND
• Experience managing and leading matrix cross-functional teams, including CROs and other external resources
• Mastery of project management tools and principles
• At least 10 years of experience in biopharma with at least 5 years of scientific project and/or program leadership experience

Core Competencies

• Integrity. Does not cut corners ethically. Earns trust and maintains confidences. Does what is right not just what is politically expedient. Speaks plainly and truthfully. Follows through on commitments. Expects a high level of personal and team performance.
• Teamwork. Proactively engages team members. Works cooperatively to establish a collaborative work environment. Solicits and responds well to constructive feedback. Possesses superior written and oral communication skills with the ability to clearly and concisely articulate ideas and opinions.
• Critical Thinking. Committed to a continual learning mindset. Demonstrates the ability to process new information and emerging data, independently draw insightful conclusions, and determine the most impactful next steps.
• Agility. Adjusts quickly to changing strategic and tactical priorities. Comfortable with ambiguity and dynamic, data-driven decision-making.
• Action-Oriented. Moves quickly and proactively with a strong work ethic to produce high-quality results while fostering a positive work environment. Focuses on key priorities. Demonstrates tenacity and willingness to go the distance to get the job done.
• Creativity & Innovation. Generates new and creative approaches to problem-solving. Positive ‘can-do’ attitude without compromising objectivity. Views the toughest challenges as the greatest opportunities for personal growth and company innovation.

Our Commitment to You

• Professional development opportunities in the form of coaching, mentorship, and training to grow leaders at all levels of the organization.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), disability, and life insurance, family leave, and flexible paid time off.
• High potential to have a significant impact on drug discovery and patient outcomes.
• Competitive compensation package including salary and company ownership in the form of equity option grants to align incentives and enable financial participation in company success.
• Full participation in a fun and innovative start-up environment that emphasizes scientific rigor, operational excellence, and accomplishment of company objectives and key outcomes (not watching the clock).
• A diverse and inclusive company culture where people are considered the most important asset, team members’ unique skills and experiences are respected, and the best ideas are supported.

At Ananke, everyone belongs.

We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, veteran status, disability status or any characteristic protected under applicable law.