Translational Medicine Lead – Oncology & Fibrosis

Position Summary

YAP Therapeutics is seeking an experienced translational scientist and drug‑development strategist to lead
our oncology and fibrosis programs from lead selection through IND submission and early clinical transition.
The successful candidate will integrate discovery, preclinical, CMC, and clinical perspectives to convert
breakthrough research into first‑in‑human trials.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, oversee, and interpret preclinical pharmacology, PK/PD, safety, and biodistribution studies
  for antibody‑based conjugates and radioligand therapeutics for oncology and advanced biologics
  targeting fibrotic diseases
• Support antibody optimization and humanization to reduce immunogenicity, enhance
  pharmacokinetic properties, and preserve or improve functional activity through target-specific
  screening of lead candidates
• Drive lead candidate selection by integrating in‑vitro, ex‑vivo, and in‑vivo data.
• Develop the integrated translational plan (target biology → biomarkers → FIH trial design),
  harmonizing discovery, non–clinical, CMC, and clinical timelines.
• Hands-on approach to preclinical development including developing, authoring and reviewing study
  protocols, reports, Investigator’s Brochures, and non‑clinical sections of regulatory submissions
  (Pre‑IND and IND).
• Provide translational insight to clinical and biomarker teams, defining patient‑selection strategies
  and inclusion/exclusion criteria.
• Partner with CMC, analytics, and quality functions to establish product‑characterization assays,
  comparability plans, and release specifications.
• Select, contract, and manage CROs, CDMOs, and academic collaborators; ensure on‑time,
  on‑budget delivery and data integrity.
• Present program updates to internal governance, investors, scientific advisory boards, and
  regulatory authorities.
• Serve as translational spokesperson at scientific conferences and contribute to peer–reviewed
  publications/IP filings.
• Contribute to corporate strategy, competitive intelligence, and portfolio prioritization.
  

Qualifications

• Ph.D., M.D., or Pharm.D. in molecular/cellular biology, pharmacology, or related discipline with a
  focus on oncology.
• ≥10 years of industry experience translating oncology therapeutics (biologics, antibody conjugates,
  or radioligands) into the clinic; addition of experience with renal or pulmonary fibrosis is preferred.
• Intellectually curious and comfortable seeking new knowledge outside of previous experience to
  achieve key scientific objectives.
• Ability to harness focus and passion to develop therapies that impact large numbers of patients.
• Resilient leader with demonstrated ability to shape consensus and align multidisciplinary experts—
  bringing poise, diplomacy, and the courage to challenge assumptions when science demands.
• Track record of hiring/mentoring high–performing scientists
• Excellent written and verbal communication and solution-oriented mindset.
  • Experience with assembling IND‑enabling packages and successful regulatory interactions (e.g.,
  FDA, EMA). Proficiency with electronic common–technical–document (eCTD) publishing tools
  preferred.
• Expert knowledge of tumor biology and fibrotic disease models with hands‑on protocol
  development and data analysis skills.
• Familiarity with CMC development for complex biologics (conjugation chemistries, isotope
  handling, analytical method development) is desirable.
• Proven vendor and project management capabilities across multiple concurrent programs.
  • Ability to apply excellent organization and critical thinking skills to provide clarity when faced with
  complexity to help drive decision making.
• Exceptional scientific writing and verbal communication skills; ability to influence in a matrixed,
  small‑company setting.
• Innovative, solutions‑oriented mindset with the agility to thrive in a dynamic start‑up environment.

Location & Travel
Houston, TX; flexible/hybrid arrangements considered. Occasional travel (<20%) to CRO/CDMO sites and
scientific conferences is expected.

Those interested in applying, please reach out to info@yaptx.com.