VICE PRESIDENT, PRECLINICAL DEVELOPMENT

Company: The Scripps Research Institute
Location: La Jolla
Posted on: February 7, 2026

Job Description:

ABOUT US: Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines was founded on the principle that the creation of new medicines can be accelerated by pairing world-class biomedical research with state-of-the-art drug discovery and development capabilities. Calibr-Skaggs is a division of Scripps Research, a first-of-its-kind, nonprofit translational research institute dedicated to creating the next generation of medicines. Scripps Research is ranked the most influential institution in the world for its impact on innovation. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading-edge scientists. Leveraging the unique scientific environment of Scripps Research, impacting translational sciences, Calibr-Skaggs has created a portfolio of drug candidates, and is shaping a new paradigm for advancing nonprofit biomedical research to impact patients while reinvesting in further innovative research. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Calibr-Skaggs’ drug development portfolio spans a broad range of human diseases, including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory diseases, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, infectious and neglected tropical diseases, as well as age-related and degenerative diseases. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team. POSITION TITLE: Vice President, Preclinical Development POSITION SUMMARY: Calibr-Skaggs is seeking an accomplished and strategic Vice President of Preclinical Development to lead and integrate in vivo pharmacology, efficacy, toxicology, and ADME/PK across research and development programs. This individual will play a critical leadership role in advancing early-stage, novel therapeutic candidates from discovery through IND filing and into early clinical development. The successful candidate will bring deep scientific expertise, strong people leadership, and a proven track record of translational success in both small molecule and biologics drug development. This is a senior, on-site leadership role responsible for guiding multidisciplinary teams and shaping Calibr-Skagg’s pharmacology strategy across multiple programs. RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: Provide scientific and strategic leadership for all in vivo pharmacology, efficacy, toxicology, and ADME/PK activities. Lead pharmacology efforts across the full R&D continuum, from target validation and lead optimization through IND-enabling studies and early clinical development. Design, interpret, and integrate pharmacology and toxicology data to inform candidate selection, dose selection, and clinical translation. Partner closely with chemistry, biology, DMPK, CMC, regulatory, and clinical teams to ensure cohesive and efficient program advancement. Ensure key activities are conducted in compliance with GLP and GMP regulations, as appropriate for stage of development. Serve as a key contributor to IND filings, regulatory interactions, and development strategy. Oversee and manage multiple CROs supporting outsourced pharmacology, toxicology, and ADME/PK activities, ensuring scientific quality, timelines, and budget adherence. Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team, fostering scientific rigor, collaboration, and accountability. Establish best practices, workflows, and external partnerships to support program execution and portfolio advancement. Present program strategy, data, and recommendations to internal and external review boards, and maintain close, ongoing communication with executive leadership and key stakeholders. Provide scientific input to portfolio strategy, program reviews, and senior leadership decision-making. Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: PhD. in Pharmacology, Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cell Biology or a closely related field. 10 years of experience in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry setting. Demonstrated success advancing both small molecules and biologics through discovery, IND-enabling studies, and early clinical development. Extensive hands-on and leadership experience in in vivo pharmacology, efficacy models, toxicology, and ADME/PK. Proven ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams and manage complex programs in a fast-paced R&D environment. Strong working knowledge of GLP and GMP regulations and their application to preclinical and early clinical drug development. Strong understanding of regulatory expectations for preclinical development and IND submission. Proven experience managing multiple CROs and outsourced pharmacology programs. Excellent scientific judgment, communication skills, and ability to influence across functions. Prior experience in a senior leadership or executive-level role strongly preferred. This position requires full-time, on-site presence at Calibr-Skaggs. Ability to lead, inspire, and manage a large organization while maintaining hands-on scientific engagement. COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE: Eligible for both Short?Term (STIP) and Long?Term (LTIP) Incentive Bonus programs , offering a highly competitive total rewards package. Employer Contributed Retirement Plan – Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars) Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care) Competitive vacation and sick leave policies Free, on-site parking COMPENSATION: The expected hiring range for this position is $303,600 TO $322,000/annually per year, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements. The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff. EEO Statement: The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture, and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.

Keywords: The Scripps Research Institute, Chino Hills , VICE PRESIDENT, PRECLINICAL DEVELOPMENT, Science, Research & Development , La Jolla, California