Scientific Director

Scientific Director – Endotoxin Detection (LAL Platform)Loud is representing an early-stage Biotech based in DC (can relo)The OpportunityWe’re building something that should exist, but doesn’t (yet).A new standard in endotoxin detection using Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) a system capable of identifying microscopic levels of contamination that can be fatal.This isn’t incremental improvement.This is about redefining speed, accuracy, and reliability in pathogen detection.We are building a new department from scratch to develop a beta-glucan/endotoxin detection platform powered by horseshoe crab-derived lysate.We’re now hiring a Scientific Director to lead it.What You’ll Be Responsible ForYou are not just running science. You are building the function, team and direction.Leadership & StrategyDefine the scientific and commercial roadmap for LAL-based detectionTranslate technical capability into real-world application and revenue pathwaysBuild and lead a high-performance team across upstream and downstream workflowsRegulatory & Market NavigationLead regulatory strategy (FDA, EMA, global equivalents)Engage directly with regulatory bodies and industry stakeholdersEnsure all work aligns with GLP and validation standardsProgram OwnershipOversee end-to-end workflow:Upstream: Cell culturing, expansion, differentiationDownstream: RUL extraction, purification, stabilization, testingDrive timelines, milestones, and delivery against a 90-day build planTeam Build-OutHire and develop:Senior Scientists (Upstream / Downstream)QC ManagerScientists + AssociatesSet the tone: high standards, fast execution, no bureaucracyWhat “Good” Looks Like in 6–12 MonthsA fully built and functioning scientific team (11–12 people)Clear regulatory pathway and validation strategy in motionLAL-based detection system progressing toward commercial viabilityStrong internal processes across data integrity, documentation, and testingA team that actually works well together (rare, but we’re aiming high)Must-Haves (Non-Negotiable)If this isn’t you, it won’t work and that’s fine.Deep experience in endotoxin and/or pathogen detectionStrong understanding of LAL or adjacent detection systemsProven regulatory experience:Direct interaction with agencies (not just internal documentation)Experience translating science into product or commercial outcomesLeadership experience building or scaling scientific teamsNice-to-Haves (But Valuable)Experience working in early-stage or scaling biotech environmentsBackground in diagnostics, pharma, or biologicsFamiliarity with beta-glucan detection systemsPrior ownership of end-to-end program deliveryWhat Will Not WorkLet’s save everyone time.Pure academic backgrounds with no applied/commercial exposureBig pharma lifers who need structure, layers, and 12 approvalsPeople with “adjacent” experience but no real understanding of this marketWho Thrives HereYou move fast and make decisions with incomplete dataYou care about impact more than titlesYou can go from strategy → lab → regulator → hiring call in the same dayYou’ve built before (or wish you had)Why This Role MattersEndotoxins kill. Detection failures cost lives.If this works, it becomes the gold standard.No pressure.