Vice President, Preclinical Development

Metagenomi is a gene editing company committed to developing potentially curative therapeutics by leveraging a proprietary toolbox of next-generation gene editing systems to accurately edit DNA where current technologies cannot. Our metagenomics-powered discovery platform and analytical expertise reveal novel cellular machinery sourced from otherwise unknown organisms. We adapt and forge these naturally evolved systems into powerful gene editing systems that are ultra-small, extremely efficient, highly specific and have a decreased risk of immune response. These systems fuel our pipeline of novel medicines and can be leveraged by partners. Our goal is to revolutionize gene editing for the benefit of patients around the world. 

Whether it's the biological diversity of our gene editing systems or the people that help discover them, Metagenomi celebrates the diversity of life. This is achieved through a compassionate culture that acknowledges the dimensions of our diversity.  We know that when people feel a sense of inclusion and belonging in the workplace, they have a safe space to bring creativity and innovation to everything they do. We are intentional about building and maintaining a culture where people are valued and respected, there is equity in opportunities, and our respective opinions and differences matter.

Vice President, Preclinical Development

Metagenomi is seeking a Vice President of Preclinical Development to lead the scientific strategy and preclinical execution of multiple gene editing programs targeting rare and common cardiometabolic  indications leading to IND/CTA submissions.  In addition to program level oversight, this role will have larger organizational leadership roles as a member of the Executive Leadership Team, Research Leadership Team, and corporate governance and alliance partner forums.  

Reporting to the Senior VIce President of Preclinical, this position offers a rare opportunity to advance Metagenomi’s translational research and preclinical programs through to clinical development, with a significant impact on the field of gene editing and our mission to develop potentially curative therapies for patients. This role is based at our Emeryville, California office.

What You’ll Do

• You will define and drive Metagenomi’s scientific vision, translating research discoveries into preclinical studies and advancing IND/CTA submissions. By integrating scientific goals with business strategies, you’ll ensure a seamless transition from research to clinic, overseeing the design and execution of preclinical programs and directly managing project team leaders.
• To support this, you’ll develop bioanalytical methods for preclinical and clinical studies, collaborating with bioanalytical teams to validate assays for gene editing efficacy, therapeutic transgene expression, and off-target analysis. Your work will advance novel gene editing technologies from research into clinical use.
• Leading data generation efforts for IND and CTA submissions, you’ll ensure that translational research aligns with regulatory standards, keeping current with evolving regulations and adapting compliance strategies across R&D programs.
• As a mentor and team leader, you will build and inspire high-performing teams, fostering a collaborative environment that emphasizes scientific rigor, innovation, and continuous growth. Your leadership will be crucial in attracting and retaining top scientific talent.
• In collaboration with academic and industry partners, you’ll build strategic alliances to strengthen Metagenomi’s translational research, representing the company at scientific conferences and industry forums. You will negotiate and manage partnerships that align with Metagenomi’s clinical development goals and drive mutual success.
• You will also allocate resources efficiently to prioritize R&D programs with clear translational impact, manage program budgets, and ensure alignment with Metagenomi’s strategic priorities.

What You Bring

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or a related field; or an M.D. with significant laboratory research experience.
• 15+ years in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry, ideally with expertise in gene editing, gene therapy, or novel therapeutic development, and a proven track record of advancing technologies from research through clinical development, including IND/CTA submissions.
• Comprehensive experience in bioanalytical method development for translational research and deep knowledge of gene editing, molecular biology, and regulatory compliance. You possess strategic leadership skills to bridge research insights with clinical applications.
• You inspire and engage diverse scientific teams, think strategically, and are a decisive problem-solver. You excel in building partnerships and can effectively communicate complex scientific insights to stakeholders, including investors and regulatory bodies.

California Pay Transparency Disclosure:

Under the Federal Labor Standards Act, this position is classified as exempt. Its anticipated base salary range will be $280,000 to $360,000.  Depending on the position offered, you will also be eligible to receive equity, bonuses, and a full range of benefits. Please note that individual total compensation for this position will be determined at the Company’s sole discretion and may vary based on location, skill level, years and depth of relevant experience, and education. 

What makes Metagenomi a unique place to work?

• We are passionate about developing technologies derived from microbial-rich ecosystems that have the power to enable therapeutic development and the potential to cure devastating diseases.
• We have cultivated an amazing culture that values teamwork, curiosity, scientific rigor, and fun. We have a strong commitment to work/life balance, host a weekly employee happy hour and events, provide catered lunches and endless snacks, and more! 
• We offer competitive compensation, including a market-benchmarked salary, annual target bonus potential, equity, comprehensive benefits plan, 401(k) with company matching, retirement safe harbor plan, and other perks.
  

At Metagenomi, we know that our people drive our success. We are an equal opportunity employer and believe in and value diversity and inclusion. Metagenomi provides an open, collegial, and friendly work environment where we empower people and provide them with opportunities to develop their long-term careers. Metagenomi does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, age, physical or mental disability, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. 

Applicants/Employees have rights under various State and Federal Employment Laws, including without limitation:

• Family & Medical Leave Act 
• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
• Employee Polygraph Protection Act 
• California Family Rights Act 
• California Fair Employment and Housing Act

Notice to agencies: Our in-house Talent Acquisition Team manages all employment opportunities at Metagenomi. Agencies and independent recruiters must be approved as a vendor by Metagenomi’s Talent Acquisition team. To protect the interests of all parties, Metagenomi will not accept unsolicited resumes, profiles, or biographies. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Metagenomi will be considered referrals and the property of Metagenomi.

Metagenomi Applicant Privacy Notice

Purpose of Data Collection

At Metagenomi, we are committed to protecting the privacy of our job applicants. The personal information you provide during the application process is collected to evaluate your suitability for employment with Metagenomi. This notice outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal data.

Types of Data Collected

We may collect and process the following types of personal information:

• Contact Information: Name, address, phone number, email address.
• Employment History: Previous employers, job titles, dates of employment.
• Education: Educational institutions attended, degrees earned.
• References: Names and contact information of your references.
• Other Relevant Information: Any additional information you choose to provide in your application or resume.

Data Usage

The personal information we collect is used for the following purposes:

• To process and evaluate your job application.
• To communicate with you about your application status.
• To conduct background checks and verify your information.
• To comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

Data Sharing

We may share your personal information with:

• Internal Departments: Relevant Metagenomi departments involved in the recruitment process.
• Third-Party Service Providers: Background check companies, recruitment agencies, and other service providers who assist us in the recruitment process. These providers are obligated  to protect your information and use it only for the purposes specified by Metagenomi.
• Legal Authorities: As required by law or in response to legal processes.

Data Storage and Security

Your personal information is stored securely in our databases and systems. We use appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your data against unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. Your data will be retained for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law.

Applicant Rights

You have the following rights regarding your personal information:

• Access: You can request access to the personal information we hold about you.
• Correction: You can request corrections to any inaccurate or incomplete information.
• Deletion: You can request the deletion of your personal information, subject to legal and regulatory obligations.
• Objection: You can object to the processing of your personal information in certain circumstances.

Metagenomi complies with applicable data protection laws, including the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is handled in accordance with the highest standards.

By submitting your application, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Applicant Privacy Notice and consent to the processing of your personal data as described above.