Chief Medical Officer - Immunology and inflammation

Company: Stealth, venture-backed biotech advancing next-generation biologics for autoimmune & inflammatory diseases

About the Company: We are an early-stage, VC-backed biotechnology company developing a novel pipeline of engineered biologics aimed at treating complex autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Our approach integrates advanced protein engineering with translational immunology to bring highly differentiated therapies into first-in-human studies and early proof-of-concept clinical trials.

Role Overview: The CMO will serve as the senior-most medical leader, responsible for shaping and executing early clinical development strategy—from IND/CTA-enabling plans through first-in-human and proof-of-concept studies in I&I. This role is ideal for a clinical development leader who has successfully served as CMO in a lean biotech environment and thrives in highly cross-functional, collaborative, science-driven settings.

Key Responsibilities: Lead the design and execution of early-phase clinical trials, with emphasis on proof-of-concept studies in autoimmune & inflammatory indications. Oversee clinical development plans, protocol design, KOL engagement, study governance, safety oversight, and data interpretation. Ensure clinical programs are efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with biotech-style decision making. Cross-Functional Leadership Partner closely with Translational, Research, CMC, Regulatory, and Program Management teams to drive IND-ready assets forward. Build and oversee clinical operations, medical monitoring, safety/pharmacovigilance, and biomarker strategy (in partnership with internal teams and external CROs).Represent the company to investors, regulatory authorities, external collaborators, and scientific advisors. External Engagement Leverage an established network of key opinion leaders (KOLs) in I&I to support indication selection, study design, and trial enrollment. Build strong relationships with investigators, academic centers, consortia, and industry partners.

Required Qualifications: MD required (US-educated MD strongly preferred) with specialization in Immunology, Rheumatology, Dermatology, IBD, SLE. In addition, familiarity with Osteoporosis and Obesity will be preferred. Significant experience in clinical development for Immunology & Inflammation, including early-phase studies and proof-of-concept trial execution. Phase II experience strongly preferred. Prior success as a CMO or senior clinical development executive within a biotech company. Deep understanding of lean, efficient biotech clinical strategy—balancing scientific rigor with operational pragmatism. Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional environments with ability to communicate clearly and collaborate across scientific and business teams. Strong KOL relationships across autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

Preferred Experience: Track record of leading IND/CTA submissions and early human studies. Experience advancing biologics, engineered proteins, or immune-modulating therapeutics. Time spent in clinical practice is a plus, but industry biotech experience is more critical. Compensation & Relocation Relocation support available for candidates outside the Bay Area. Seniority level Not Applicable Employment type Full-time Job function Research and Science