Pliant Therapeutics is a public, clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of novel therapies for fibrotic diseases. Founded by Third Rock Ventures with world-renowned academic thought leaders, Pliant is raising the bar to meet the unmet medical needs of physicians, patients and families impacted by fibrotic disease. The Company’s focus is on mechanism-based intervention in the fibrotic process using small molecules.

The Company’s lead product candidate, PLN-74809, is an oral, small molecule selective inhibitor of the αvβ1 and αvβ6 integrins that play a key role in multiple fibrotic pathways. PLN-74809 has received Orphan Drug Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in both idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and are currently in Phase 2a clinical trials for these indications. The company recently reported positive data from its Phase 2a trial in IPF and is currently ramping up activities in preparation for a late-stage clinical trial at worldwide sites.

Pliant has also developed PLN-1474, a small molecule, selective inhibitor of αvß1 for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH with liver fibrosis. Pliant is initiating a Phase 1 study for its third clinical program, PLN-101095, a small molecule, dual-selective inhibitor of αvß8 and αvß1 integrins, that is being developed for the treatment of solid tumors. The Company also has discovery and development programs in oncology and muscular dystrophies.

The Company is seeking passionate, creative, and dedicated individuals to join our team and contribute to our mission.

 

Description

 

The Associate Director/ Director will represent nonclinical safety on discovery and developmental project teams and represent Pliant externally in interactions with health authorities, partners, and the broader scientific community. This is a hybrid position, with a 3 day in the office expectation (South San Francisco).  This position will be reporting to the head of toxicology and be part of the larger nonclinical development group.

The position will require strong scientific abilities and problem-solving skills; the candidate must have a track record of strong engagement and effective communication skills within the scientific community. A fluid ability to work with multi-functional project teams is key, and a solid basic understanding of drug development is essential.

 

Responsibilities

 

  • Authoring nonclinical sections of major regulatory submissions and documents; prepare science-based responses to regulatory questions
  • Conduct risk assessments for any potential toxicity issues related to undesired or exaggerated pharmacology
  • Responsible for strategic planning, design, and interpretation of toxicology studies in support of 1) regulatory filings, 2) compound lead optimization, and 3) investigation or characterization of potential toxicity issues
  • Collaborate closely with research and clinical development colleagues on project teams, considering all the appropriate strategic needs to support drug development

 

Qualifications

 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, abilities and prior experience required.

  • A PhD or equivalent in safety pharmacology, toxicology, or pathology
  • 5-10 years of industry experience post-degree and board-certification is desired, title is commensurate with experience. Flexibility for the right candidate will be considered.
  • Project experience representing nonclinical safety on small or large molecule drug discovery and developmental teams
  • Subject matter expertise in small molecule drug development preferred

 

Pliant requires all new hires to be fully vaccinated prior to the first date of employment (subject to any legally required exemptions).

 

The annual base salary for this role is $175,000 - $255,000. Individual pay may vary based on additional factors, including, and without limitation job-related skills, experience, work location and relevant education or training. Pliant’s compensation package also includes benefits, equity, and annual target bonus for fulltime positions.

To understand how Pliant complies with and manages your personal information with respect to the California Consumer Privacy Act, please visit https://pliantrx.com/ccpa-applicant-and-staff-privacy-notice/. 

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