Head of Assay and Screening Sciences

Overview

EnquBio is a technology-driven discovery and contract research organization (CRO) based in San Diego, providing biology-focused preclinical drug discovery services. We partner with biopharmaceutical companies to accelerate the development of novel therapeutics across a broad range of disease areas. We are seeking an exceptional scientific leader to join our senior leadership team as Head of Assay and Screening Sciences.

This leadership role is responsible for the scientific direction, operational excellence, and strategic growth of EnquBio's assay development and screening capabilities. The Head of Assay and Screening Sciences will lead a high-performing team, drive the development and delivery of innovative assay platforms, and play a key role in shaping EnquBio's scientific strategy and competitive positioning. The ideal candidate will bring deep scientific expertise, a proven leadership track record in CRO, biotech, or pharmaceutical settings, and the ability to operate effectively at both scientific and business levels.

Responsibilities

• Build, lead, and scale the Assay and Screening group, overseeing team development, training, and resource planning while fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.
• Provide scientific leadership and operational oversight to ensure high-quality study execution and on-time project delivery.
• Lead the development, optimization, and validation of novel in vitro and cell-based assay platforms supporting internal and client-sponsored drug discovery programs.
• Drive implementation of new technologies and establish strategic external collaborations to expand scientific capabilities and service offerings.
• Partner with senior leadership to define strategic investments and capability expansion aligned with scientific and business priorities.
• Partner with business development and commercial teams to expand service offerings, support client engagement, and contribute to revenue growth.
• Serve as a senior scientific representative in client meetings, scientific conferences, industry events, and external partnerships.
• Contribute to company-wide strategic planning, organizational growth, budget management, and resource allocation to support business objectives and sustainable growth.
• Evaluate emerging scientific trends, technologies, and market opportunities to strengthen EnquBio's long-term competitive position.

Qualifications

• PhD in pharmacology, biochemistry, cell biology, or a related life science discipline with 10+ years of relevant industry experience; or MS with 15+ years of relevant experience in CRO, biotech, or pharmaceutical settings.
• Extensive experience in assay development, HTS, and SAR screening is required.
• Deep expertise in cellular pharmacology and broad hands-on experience with cell-based, biochemical, and mechanistic assay platforms.
• Proven track record of building, leading, and developing high-performing scientific teams in fast-paced industry environments.
• Prior experience in client-facing scientific leadership and business development strongly preferred.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills, with the ability to engage clients, partners, and executive stakeholders.
• Strong strategic thinking and business acumen, with the ability to translate scientific opportunities into operational and commercial outcomes.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent programs, priorities, and cross-functional initiatives.
• Collaborative, proactive, and solutions-oriented leadership style with strong ownership and accountability.

Physical Requirements

This role involves working in laboratory and office environments. Candidates must be able to:

• Work with biohazardous materials and chemicals in compliance with applicable safety standards.
• Perform laboratory procedures, including handling biological samples and research materials.
• Wear required PPE including gloves, lab coat, and eye/face protection.
• Stand, sit, and walk for extended periods; crouch, bend, twist, and reach as needed; perform tasks involving repetitive motions.
• Routinely lift, push, or pull up to 10 lbs.
• Possess visual acuity sufficient to perform detailed laboratory work and data review.

At EnquBio, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. As an equal opportunity employer, we extend fair employment opportunities to all individuals, irrespective of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or other legally protected status.

Come join us in shaping the future of biotechnology through our commitment to operational excellence and innovation.