Director of Research

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Director of Research – BiomeSense About BiomeSense BiomeSense is a gut microbiome company building a breakthrough sample-to-answer intelligence platform to accelerate the development of novel microbiome-based precision medicine. Our proprietary platform integrates GutLab Technology (continuous, standardized, low-cost microbiome tracking) with MetaBiome AI/ML (bioinformatics purpose-built for large-scale microbiome analysis). Together, these form the first massively scalable data/AI infrastructure for the gut microbiome, unlocking biomarker discovery and product development across oncology, nutrition, drug response, and autoimmune disease.
We partner with leading institutions and researchers including UCSF, UCSD, NIH, and the University of Chicago, and are backed by investors such as Labcorp Ventures, Bluestein Ventures, Seerave Foundation, and Emil Capital Partners.
Role Summary We are seeking a Director of Research to lead our Laboratory Operations and Research team. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise and collaborative spirit in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You will play a key role in advancing our sample-to-answer multi-omic platform technology, interfacing directly with company leadership and focusing on core scientific principles related to metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and operational scalability.
This is a rare opportunity to join a high-growth, venture-backed biotech startup at the inflection point of scaling. It is ideally suited for someone with a strong background in microbial biosciences and operational workflows who thrives under ambiguity, loves solving complex problems, and wants to accelerate their career in biotech leadership.
Key Responsibilities Scientific Leadership & Strategic Execution Drive the design, validation, and optimization of molecular multi-omics pipelines for fecal samples, ensuring both scientific rigor and alignment with company strategy. Shape and oversee the implementation of scalable workflows for sample handling, balancing operational efficiency with long-term innovation goals. Partner with executive leadership to translate scientific insights into strategic priorities, guiding decision-making at the highest levels. Cross-Functional & Executive Collaboration Provide scientific leadership in cross-functional initiatives, contributing to product roadmaps and organizational strategy. Serve as a trusted advisor to company leadership, clearly communicating complex scientific concepts to inform business strategy and investor-facing discussions. Team Leadership & Development Mentor and develop junior scientists and research associates, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture aligned with company objectives. Cultivate team alignment with overarching strategic priorities, ensuring that laboratory execution supports business growth and leadership goals. Qualifications Required: PhD or MS in molecular biology, microbiology, or a related field with 5+ years of experience in industry settings. Deep expertise in metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, or related '-omics' fields, with hands-on experience in NGS technologies and data interpretation. Demonstrated ability to lead or mentor scientific teams in high-intensity environments. Excellent communication skills for presenting complex scientific concepts to diverse stakeholders. Compensation & Benefits Salary: $150K – $200K, depending on experience Equity: 0.1% – 0.25% stock options Standard benefits including health coverage, PTO, and parental leave This role offers a competitive total compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications. You'll have the chance to make a significant impact on the company's success while advancing your career in an environment that values innovation, collaboration, and results-driven leadership.
About You You are a driven scientific leader who thrives at the intersection of innovation, execution, and strategic impact. You’re comfortable shaping experimental design and interpreting data at the bench, while also influencing company direction through close collaboration with executive leadership. You excel at working across disciplines to solve complex problems, and your expertise in microbiome science is matched by your ability to mentor others and align teams with organizational strategy. If you’re ready to take on a senior scientific role that combines technical expertise, cross-functional influence, and regular engagement with company leadership, we want to hear from you!
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Location:
Chicago
Job Type:
FullTime

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