Orna Therapeutics is an innovative biotechnology startup based in Watertown, MA, committed to developing groundbreaking therapies for diseases that current approaches cannot address. With our pioneering circular RNA technology, developed at MIT, we are at the forefront of advancing the next generation of RNA therapeutics. Our state-of-the-art expression and delivery platform positions us to tackle complex diseases, including B cell-driven autoimmune disorders, B cell malignancies, sickle cell disease, and beyond.

The Head of Translational Science will serve as a senior scientific leader reporting to the CEO, responsible for shaping and executing the translational strategy that connects discovery research with clinical development. They will design and implement translational plans, including biomarker strategies, mechanism-of-action studies, and preclinical models to inform clinical decision-making. Operating in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment, they will work closely with discovery, clinical, regulatory, and other partners to ensure scientific insights are translated into effective development strategies. This individual will take a hands-on approach and provide scientific leadership by leveraging their expertise to influence program direction and drive therapeutic progress.

Responsibilities:

• Establish and execute translational and biomarker strategies to progress Orna’s PanCAR programs efficiently to the clinic. Communicate the risks, mitigation strategies, and milestones to the Program Team
• Procures and manages vendors to implement biomarker assay development and qualifications as well as for routine biomarker analysis
• Manages the development of clinical comparison diagnostic tests as necessary
• Understand project timelines and deliverables, and plans/coordinates project work accordingly with departmental, functional, and other stakeholders
• Bring scientific learnings from clinical biomarkers back to the research organization to drive additional understanding of Orna’s medicines and platform
• Prepares and reviews translational medicine sections of IBs, INDs, protocols, abstracts, manuscripts, and technical reports
• Leads efforts on data generation, interpretation, and communication to discovery and clinical development teams
• Contributes to scientific and strategy discussion to advance and enhance Orna’s platform and product candidates
• Closely mentor scientists working on translational efforts to ensure smooth assay design and transfer and to further develop talent within the team
• Maintain knowledge of scientific advances and competitive activity from literature, scientific meetings, and external contacts
• Maintain knowledge of regulatory requirements for biomarker testing in both US and ex-US
• Provides tactical and strategic guidance to the sample/ biomarkers operations team

Qualifications:

• PhD scientist with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience is required, preferable in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical sectors
• Strong background in cellular immunology and immune-oncology, with an understanding of autoimmune diseases and tumor microenvironment is required
• Translational research experience is required
• Experience in in-depth characterization of immune cells and CAR T products is preferred
• Experience in developing clinical companion diagnostic tests is highly desirable
• Strong team player with the ability to work in cross-functional teams
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast paced, sometimes fluid environment and able to foster a strong collaborative spirit.
• High level of business awareness

Why Orna? At Orna Therapeutics, we’re more than just a workplace—we’re a community. We believe in fostering an environment where individuals can grow, thrive, and make a lasting impact on the future of healthcare. Join us as we revolutionize RNA therapeutics and make a difference in the lives of patients around the world.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Individuals seeking employment at Orna Therapeutics are considered without regards to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, or sexual orientation. 

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