Neurotech is developing sight-saving therapeutics for the treatment of chronic retinal diseases. The Company’s lead product candidate, NT-501, is currently in late-stage clinical development for advanced dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP). The Company’s portfolio of product candidates also includes treatments for wet AMD. All of Neurotech’s development programs are based on the Company’s proprietary Encapsulated Cell Technology (ECT). ECT uniquely enables the controlled, continuous delivery of biologics directly to the back of the eye, thereby overcoming a major obstacle in the treatment of retinal disease. In addition, Neurotech is currently evaluating opportunities to apply ECT for the treatment of chronic systemic diseases.

The strength of Neurotech’s technology has attracted both the support of leading figures in the ophthalmology field as well as significant investment from major venture capital firms. The company closed a $35 million Series B round of financing in September 2006, and $15 million Series C financing in October 2009, and is focused on clinical development of several retinal product candidates, and expanding its product pipeline.

Located in Lincoln, Rhode Island, the company currently employs approximately 30 full time employees.

www.neurotechusa.com

The Opportunity:

At this point in Neurotech’s evolution, the current management team recognizes the need to augment its existing strength with the addition of a Head of Biological Sciences. This is a newly created role for which the position holder will report directly to the Chief Scientific Officer and will play a critical role in the Company’s product development activities. 

The ideal candidate will be a senior level scientist, with experience in cell & molecular biology, protein biochemistry, analytical and bioassay development to lead the newly formed Biological Sciences group.

Responsibilities:

This position will be responsible for the creation and characterization of new ECT product candidate cell lines, characterization of new therapeutic agents and support of the preclinical and clinical evaluation of efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of the ECT devices. In addition, you will work closely with a team of engineers and scientists and contribute toward core ECT technology development activities in the company.

Key responsibilities will include the following:

·         Provide scientific expertise and leadership in all areas of biological sciences as required throughout all groups in research and development.  

·         Attract and retain a first-rate research team in areas of cell and molecular biology, protein biochemistry, and analytical assay development and provide leadership and oversight in order to optimize/support the research and development efforts of the company.

·         Work cooperatively and effectively with the Chief Scientific Officer and the development team to assist the continued development of all prioritized projects.

·         Assist the management team in seeking product and/or technology alliances with appropriate partners to enhance/expedite the development of the company’s assets.

·         Work closely with the Chief Scientific Officer and legal advisors to enrich and optimize Neurotech’s intellectual property portfolio.

·         Help establish and maintain collaborations with both academia as well as industry partners.   

·         Effectively manage staff development, ensuring a culture that is capable of attracting and retaining the best talent.

·         Effectively interact with all company personnel as required, especially with the process development team.

Position Requirements:

Candidates will have a M.D., Ph.D. or both with relevant postdoctoral experience and at least 10 years of industry experience in research and development. Technical skills should include familiarity with cell and molecular biology, protein biochemistry, analytical assay development, bioassay development, animal modeling and immunocytochemistry.

In addition, the ideal candidate will:

• Possess strong, effective communication skills

• Possess an ability to independently manage multiple tasks

• Have proven project management skills

• Have a successful track record of hiring and staffing a growing department

• Be able to work effectively with peer groups in research & development and operations to successfully and expeditiously move new product candidates along in their development pathway.

• Be a strong leader who can inspire people to take action and accept accountability; incite in them a sense of purpose and enthusiasm; instill trust and credibility within and among the teams; establish productive linkages across functional and departmental boundaries.

• Be a critically-thinking problem solver who is able to digest and synthesize many different inputs in order to identify solutions to challenging scientific questions.

• Be a "doer," with a "roll-up-your-sleeves" attitude who is attracted to the entrepreneurial environment, which requires hard work and strong commitment.