Head of Human Genetics

Character Biosciences

Character Biosciences is a drug discovery and development company building world-class, deeply-phenotyped databases that integrate genomics with longitudinal clinical and imaging data in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma therapeutic areas. Our interdisciplinary team, comprising experts in clinical science, data science, statistical genetics, machine learning and drug discovery utilize these platforms to determine genetic drivers of disease progression, advance novel therapeutics and define genetics-based patient stratification. Character is currently advancing two programs in AMD towards clinical development with additional programs in earlier stages of discovery research in AMD and glaucoma areas.

As the Head of Human Genetics, you will leverage your strong technical expertise to lead the optimization and expansion of our genetics analysis platform supporting drug target discovery and clinical development.  Reporting to the CSO, you  will shape and execute overarching strategies for the genetics department, maximizing  the potential of our longitudinal patient databases to drive impactful discoveries. Additionally, you will oversee a team of geneticists and foster collaborative initiatives with the clinical, data science/engineering, and drug discovery teams to ensure alignment and enhance strategic impact.

This role is hybrid and can be based in either South San Francisco or remotely. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the optimization and expansion of our genetics platform, including:

  • Analysis tools such as GWAS/ExWAS

  • Functional genetic resources such as QTLs

  • Analysis strategies to optimize the discovery of genetic associations with disease progression phenotypes

  • Polygenic risk scores to assess the relative contribution of biological pathways to disease progression and to optimize clinical development

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to develop and implement key genetic strategies that align with corporate goals, ensuring scientific insights effectively support drug discovery and clinical development

• Contribute to the evaluation of disease pathways and potential drug targets

• Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration while managing and mentoring scientists and research associates

• Establish and manage research activities with internal/external collaborators and CROs

• Regularly lead presentations of data and strategy to internal and external audiences across diverse scientific backgrounds, translating complex insights into actionable recommendations

Key qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Genetic Epidemiology, Statistical Genetics, Human Genetics, or a related field with substantial experience in human disease genetics projects.

• Minimum of 10 years of industry research experience in genetics-guided drug discovery, with expertise in conducting GWAS, WGS, and/or WES analyses in polygenic diseases. 

• Extensive hands-on experience with mixed model genetic association analyses in repeated measures and longitudinal progression phenotypes.

• Expertise in polygenic risk scores and the development of precision medicine strategies for clinical trials.

• Proficient in genetic analysis methodologies and tools, including GATK, Python, R, PLINK, SKATO, REGENIE, GMMAT, LDHub, VEP, SnpEff/SIFT, PolyPhen, PRSice, and PRS-CS. 

• Experience working with data from public repositories such as dbGaP, UK Biobank, All of Us, and FinnGen.

• Skilled in integrative functional genomics methods including co-localization, fine-mapping, and Mendelian Randomization.

• Proven success in leading independent research programs and managing multidisciplinary teams.

• Strong record of scientific excellence, demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications or patents.

• Demonstrated ability to supervise and mentor research teams effectively.

• Exceptional communication skills and a collaborative mindset to drive cross-functional initiatives.

Benefits include a competitive salary, strong equity incentives, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and a flexible paid time off policy. Character is committed to recruiting, developing, and supporting colleagues from all backgrounds. We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion as an integral part of our culture. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. We are an E-Verify company.