About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences is a biopharmaceutical leader with over 35 years of dedication to creating a healthier world. Renowned for breakthroughs in HIV treatments, viral hepatitis, COVID-19 responses, and cancer therapies, Gilead relentlessly develops innovative medicines. The company also advances solutions for inflammatory diseases, addressing unmet medical needs through cutting-edge research. With a global presence, including state-of-the-art facilities in Oxford, UK, Gilead fosters collaboration across sites like Foster City, CA, to accelerate drug discovery and development. Employees at Gilead are empowered to make direct impacts on patient lives, supported by a culture of inclusion, determination, and scientific excellence.

Role Overview

The Director – Protein Therapeutics position in Oxford, United Kingdom, offers a pivotal leadership role within Gilead's Protein Therapeutics team. This role focuses on engineering large molecule drug candidates, including antibodies, multispecifics, immune cell engagers, and immunocytokines, with a primary emphasis on inflammation projects. As a key people leader, you will oversee a Biologics Engineering team, driving projects from conceptualization to drug candidate nomination. This matrixed organization demands seamless collaboration across global functions, positioning you at the forefront of biologics innovation in a fast-paced, data-driven environment.

Strategic Impact in Inflammation and Beyond

In this role, you'll advance Gilead's pipeline in inflammatory diseases while leveraging expertise applicable to HIV, oncology, and other therapeutic areas. Your work will integrate rational design, in silico tools, and iterative optimization to deliver therapeutics matching Target Product Profiles.

Key Responsibilities

Lead a team of protein engineers to discover and optimize innovative therapeutics targeting unmet needs via novel mechanisms. Represent Protein Therapeutics on interdisciplinary teams, delivering large molecule candidates. Drive rapid optimization through design-build-test-learn cycles, utilizing structure-based approaches. Independently perform lead sequence and format optimizations. Communicate transparently with stakeholders, supervise and mentor scientists, and maintain rigorous compliance. Thrive in Gilead's dynamic, scientifically rigorous setting, advancing cutting-edge engineering technologies.

Qualifications & Requirements

Basic qualifications include a Ph.D. in molecular and cell biology, structural biology, or equivalent. Preferred candidates hold postdoctoral training plus substantial industry experience, evidenced by publications, patents, and accomplishments. Essential expertise spans structure-based protein engineering, multispecifics, immunocytokines, Fc engineering, fusion proteins, antibody humanization, and biophysical improvements. Proficiency in molecular biology, recombinant protein techniques, mammalian cell culture, expression, purification, and characterization is required. Familiarity with antibody discovery platforms, computational tools like MOE, and biologics informatics (e.g., Genedata) is advantageous. Proven project leadership across R&D phases, deep knowledge of competitive landscapes, and strong leadership skills with emotional intelligence complete the profile.

Industry Leadership and Technical Mastery

Candidates must demonstrate a track record advancing therapeutics from discovery to preclinical development, staying current with emerging platforms in a highly competitive biopharma sector.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead offers a premium compensation package, including a competitive salary estimated at £120,000–£170,000 annually, performance-based bonuses, and equity opportunities. Comprehensive health benefits cover medical, dental, and vision, with wellness programs promoting work-life balance. Professional development includes mentorship, training, and career progression paths. Enjoy flexible working arrangements, generous paid time off, and family-friendly policies. As part of a global leader, benefit from collaborative environments, cutting-edge resources, and the pride of contributing to therapies transforming lives in HIV, oncology, inflammation, and beyond.

Career Growth

Gilead invests in its people leaders, providing tools to evolve culture and empower teams. This Director role offers visibility across matrixed functions, paving the way for broader R&D leadership. Mentoring opportunities foster team development while honing your strategic skills. Access global networks, leadership training, and exposure to diverse therapeutic areas accelerate career trajectories in biopharma.

Why Join Gilead

Join Gilead to collaborate on bold ambitions tackling world's biggest health challenges. In Oxford, contribute to localized innovation with global reach, impacting millions through superior therapeutics. Experience a supportive culture where every employee feels included and empowered. Gilead's commitment to equal opportunity ensures diverse talents thrive, making 'possible' a reality together in HIV, oncology, inflammatory diseases, and more.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the primary therapeutic focus? A: Primarily inflammation, with opportunities across Gilead's portfolio including HIV and oncology.
Q: Is relocation support available? A: Gilead provides comprehensive support for eligible candidates.
Q: What tools will I use? A: Computational design like MOE, Genedata Biologics, and standard molecular biology platforms.
Q: How matrixed is the role? A: Highly collaborative, requiring strong partnerships with US and global teams.
Q: What leadership experience is needed? A: Proven team leadership in pharma R&D, with mentoring focus.
Q: Is this full-time? A: Yes, full-time position in Oxford, UK.