Senior Product Manager, Synthetic DNA (Biotech + Pharma)

Elegen is blazing a path towards a biology-based economy with a highly innovative approach to DNA synthesis that delivers an industry leading length of 7kb in 7 business days with a 99.999% per base accuracy. Our multidisciplinary team of best-in-class biologists, chemists, hardware, and software engineers apply cutting-edge technologies and methods to solve critical bottlenecks in synthetic biology workflows to help our customers in pharma, biotech, agbio, and biomanufacturing streamline their work and realize the full potential of programmable biology.

Our mission is to democratize access to high-quality synthetic DNA products and services, enabling our customers to accelerate their research and development efforts and make significant advancements that further human health. We are seeking an entrepreneurial and visionary Senior Product Manager to lead the strategic development and commercialization of our synthetic DNA offerings in the mRNA and genetic medicine markets.

As a Senior Product Manager at Elegen, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the growth and success of our synthetic DNA products focusing on DNA solutions that further the advancement of RUO and commercial-scale genetic medicine therapies. You will have the opportunity to drive innovation, build strategic partnerships, and make a significant impact on the future of genetic medicine and synthetic biology. This role offers a unique opportunity to join a fast-paced startup environment and contribute to the development of groundbreaking technologies that have the potential to revolutionize the biotech and pharma industries.

Key Responsibilities:

• Product Strategy and Roadmap: Develop and execute strategic product plans and roadmaps for our synthetic DNA offerings, aligning with the company’s vision and objectives. Identify market opportunities, define product positioning, and drive innovation to differentiate our products in the marketplace.
• Market Analysis and Customer Insights: Conduct market research and analysis to understand customer needs, industry trends, and the competitive landscape in the biotech and pharma sectors. Gather insights to inform product development, pricing strategies, and go-to-market initiatives.
• Product Development and Innovation: Lead the product development process from concept to commercialization, collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality synthetic DNA products that meet customer requirements and exceed industry standards. Champion innovation and drive the development of cutting-edge technologies.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships: Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, including biotech and pharma companies, research institutions, and industry partners. Collaborate to identify strategic opportunities for partnerships, collaborations, and co-development projects.
• Go-to-Market Strategy and Commercialization: Develop and execute go-to-market strategies for our synthetic DNA products, including product positioning, pricing, distribution channels, and marketing campaigns. Work closely with sales and marketing teams to drive product awareness, adoption, and revenue growth.
• Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance: Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and quality standards for synthetic DNA products, working closely with regulatory affairs and quality assurance teams to navigate regulatory pathways and maintain product integrity.
• Performance Monitoring and Optimization: Define KPIs and metrics to measure product performance and success. Monitor market trends, customer feedback, and competitive landscape to identify opportunities for optimization and growth. Iterate on strategies to maximize market impact and achieve business objectives.

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, biotechnology, biochemistry, or related field; advanced degree (e.g., MBA, MS, PhD) preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product management within the biotech, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industry, with a focus on synthetic DNA or molecular biology products.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with experience in startup or fast-paced environments. Ability to thrive in ambiguity and navigate uncertainty.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and managing product initiatives throughout the product lifecycle.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate market insights into actionable product strategies and drive innovation.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills. Ability to influence and inspire cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Must be humble and collaborative.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis, market research, and performance measurement.
• Willingness and ability to be onsite in San Carlos 2-3 days per week, including travel up to 25% per month.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• Hands-on experience with cloning methods through PhD or work as a research assistant
• Deep understanding of synthetic DNA technologies, applications, and workflows in biotech and pharma research and development, especially in the genetic medicine markets (mRNA, Cell Therapy, Gene Therapy, Gene Editing, etc.).
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance standards for synthetic DNA products in biotech and pharma industries.

Why Join Us:

• Opportunity to be part of a high-growth startup and shape the future of genetic medicine.
• Collaborative and entrepreneurial work environment with a passionate and driven team.
• Competitive compensation package, including equity options, salary, bonus, and benefits.
• Opportunity for professional growth and career advancement as we continue to scale and expand our business.
• Make a meaningful impact on the biotech and pharma industries by driving innovation and advancing genetic medicine.

If you are a results-driven product management professional with a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship, and you’re excited about the opportunity to make a significant impact in the field of genetic medicine, we want to hear from you! Apply now to join our startup team and help us revolutionize the biotech and pharma industries with our synthetic DNA solutions.

Salary and Benefits:

The annual base salary compensation for this role, if based in California is: $135,000 – $180,000. Compensation may be different in other locations. Final compensation also includes bonus, equity and benefits. Specific offer packages are determined by multiple factors, including candidate skill, experience, expertise, and location. 

✓ Healthcare ✓ Dental ✓ Vision ✓ Learning Allowance

✓ 401K ✓ Flexible PTO ✓ Short Term Disability ✓ Fitness Allowance

About The Company:

Founded and led by Dr. Matthew Hill and located in San Carlos, CA, Elegen is well-capitalized by top life science investors, including Andreessen Horowitz, 8VC, and KdT. The company is advised and staffed by leading biotechnology scientists and entrepreneurs, including Dr. Marc Unger, inventor of the Nanoflex™ valve, and former CSO of Fluidigm. Dr. Hill has a PhD from Stanford and a proven track record of advancing innovative technologies from invention to commercial success. Over eight years in his previous role as VP of R&D at a leading molecular diagnostics company, he co-invented and launched five precision molecular diagnostic products, including a best-in-class noninvasive prenatal test used by millions. These products earn more than $350 million per year in revenue and enabled an IPO.

Elegen is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Elegen provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic characteristics, or any other category protected by law. All applicants have rights under the following Federal Employment Laws: 

• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
• Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)

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