About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences, headquartered in Foster City, California, is a leading research-based biopharmaceutical company dedicated to creating a healthier world through innovative medicines. For over 35 years, Gilead has pioneered breakthroughs in treating life-threatening diseases, including HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, cancer, and inflammatory conditions. Our therapeutic focus spans HIV therapies that have transformed patient lives, oncology programs advancing novel cancer treatments, and cutting-edge solutions for inflammatory diseases. With a relentless drive for scientific innovation, Gilead collaborates globally to ensure access to therapies that address unmet medical needs. Joining Gilead means contributing to projects that redefine possibilities in biopharma.

Role Overview

The Senior Director, Drug Metabolism position within Gilead's Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) group is a pivotal leadership role focused on biologics. Based in Foster City, California, this full-time position demands a seasoned expert in the pharmacokinetics (PK) of large molecules. You will represent DMPK on biologics discovery and development teams, providing strategic PK support alongside bioanalytical, toxicology, clinical pharmacology, and regulatory colleagues. This role is ideal for a PhD-level scientist with deep experience in protein therapeutics, driving candidate nomination for clinical trials and regulatory submissions.

Impact on Gilead's Mission

Your expertise will directly influence Gilead's pipeline in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases, ensuring robust ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion) data supports safe, effective therapies reaching patients worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

As Sr Director, Drug Metabolism, you will lead with scientific authority across project phases. Core duties include serving as the DMPK biologics subject matter expert, designing and overseeing nonclinical PK, toxicology, and pharmacology studies. You will prepare protocols, coordinate with Contract Research Organizations (CROs), and execute complex PK-PD analyses for translational insights and first-in-human dosing. Evaluating anti-drug antibody (ADA) impacts, participating in business development, and delivering high-quality PK reports for INDs, IMPDs, Investigator's Brochures (IBs), and BLAs are essential. Supervision of research and associate scientists may also be required, fostering a culture of excellence.

Qualifications & Requirements

Candidates must hold a PhD in pharmacokinetics, drug metabolism, pharmaceutics, or a related life sciences field, backed by 14+ years of post-graduate industry experience focused on biologics PK characterization through discovery and development. Success hinges on exceptional verbal and technical communication skills, independent scientific judgment, and the ability to interpret complex data for project teams and senior leadership. A proven track record of external visibility via publications and presentations in DMPK biologics is crucial, alongside intellectual curiosity to track emerging advances in PK analysis.

Preferred Experience

Hands-on involvement in multi-functional teams, CRO oversight, and regulatory strategy for large molecules sets top candidates apart. Experience in Gilead's key areas—HIV, oncology, and inflammation—enhances fit.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead offers a premium compensation package, including a competitive salary estimated at $300,000-$450,000 annually for this senior role, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, and generous 401(k) matching. Employees enjoy stock purchase plans, tuition reimbursement, and wellness initiatives promoting work-life balance. Flexible schedules, onsite fitness centers, and family leave policies support your personal and professional aspirations in Foster City.

Career Growth

At Gilead, people leaders drive culture evolution, inclusion, and empowerment. This Sr Director role positions you for expanded influence in biopharma leadership, with opportunities in global project teams, business development, and executive advancement. Robust training programs, mentorship, and cross-functional exposure accelerate your trajectory in DMPK and beyond.

Why Join Gilead

Gilead stands out for its bold ambitions and direct impact on global health. Collaborate on groundbreaking work in HIV treatments that have saved millions of lives, oncology innovations pushing cancer boundaries, and inflammatory disease therapies improving quality of life. Our Foster City campus fosters a collaborative, innovative environment where every team member contributes to 'Creating What's Possible.' With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Gilead empowers passionate scientists like you to thrive.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the primary focus of this role? A: Providing expert PK leadership for biologics DMPK, from discovery to regulatory filings.
Q: Is supervisory experience required? A: Supervision of scientists may be required, suiting those with team leadership backgrounds.
Q: How does this role support Gilead's pipeline? A: By delivering ADME insights critical for advancing HIV, oncology, and inflammation candidates.
Q: What location options exist? A: This is an onsite role in Foster City, California.
Q: What salary can I expect? A: Estimated $300,000-$450,000 USD yearly, based on biopharma benchmarks with buffer.
Q: Does Gilead support professional development? A: Yes, through training, conferences, and leadership programs tailored for high-performers.