Director of Toxicology

Description

About McKinney Specialty Labs  

McKinney Specialty Labs is an innovative scientific organization that draws upon decades of extensive expertise in testing nicotine and other aerosolized products. We employ subject matter experts with extensive scientific knowledge, utilize robust and validated analytical methods, and offer testing flexibility to meet the diverse needs of our clients.   

Our mission is to deliver best-in-class product testing and global regulatory science solutions to our clients through our experience, people and technology. We accomplish this by offering our clients the highest quality testing services in a state-of- the-art facility, all conducted according to our Values: Excellence, Collaboration, Integrity, Innovation, and Respect.  

We are a new and growing company located in Richmond, Virginia. We offer competitive pay and a comprehensive benefit package, including medical, dental, vision and 401(k).   

To learn more, please visit our company website: https://mckinneysl.com/ 

Position Overview:  

The Director of the Toxicology Laboratory leads our in vitro toxicology team in designing, executing, and overseeing nonclinical safety studies. This role will ensure compliance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) regulations and provide scientific and operational leadership for in vitro toxicology studies supporting drug development, chemical safety assessment, and regulatory submissions. 

The Director will be responsible for strategic planning, staff management, regulatory compliance, and laboratory operations while fostering a culture of scientific excellence and continuous improvement. This role reports to the Senior Director, Laboratory Operations. 

This role is based in Richmond, VA and ability to be onsite daily, if needed, is required.
 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Direct laboratory operations, including budget planning, resource allocation, and workflow optimization. 
• Hire, mentor, and manage a team of toxicologists, study directors, and laboratory staff. 
• Foster a collaborative, innovative, and high-performance work culture. 
• Lead the design, execution, and interpretation of in vitro toxicology studies, including cytotoxicity, genotoxicity. 
• Oversee laboratory equipment selection, validation, and maintenance. 
• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with GLP regulations. 
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance (QA) teams to conduct internal audits, identify compliance gaps, and implement corrective actions. 
• Serve as a scientific liaison to clients and regulatory agencies. 
• Support business development efforts by advising on project feasibility, study design, and pricing strategies. 
• Present research findings and laboratory capabilities at conferences, regulatory meetings, and scientific workshops. 
• Assign and clearly communicate operational priorities.  
• Prepare and lead staff training and performance management.  
• May serve as a Study Director. 

Necessary Qualifications: 

To perform this job successfully, individuals must be able to perform each duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the duties and responsibilities. 

• M.Sc. in Toxicology, Pharmacology, Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field. 
• Minimum 10 years of experience in in vitro toxicology with at least 5 years in a leadership role within a GLP-compliant laboratory. 
• Deep knowledge of GLP regulations and international guidelines. 
• Strong expertise in in vitro toxicology methodologies. 
• Proven leadership experience, including team building, mentorship, and performance management. 
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present complex data to scientific and non-scientific audiences. 

Preferred Skills:   

• Ph.D. in Toxicology, Pharmacology, Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field 
• Ability to interact with regulatory agencies 
• Analytical thinking to solve technical problems  
• Strong research and development skills  
• Superior time management abilities  
• Strong personal skills 
• Knowledge of ISO17025? 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees so classified. 

Application Process:  

McKinney Specialty Labs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. McKinney Specialty Labs does not discriminate in hiring or employment practices based on race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, national origin, non-job-related disability, or status as a veteran.  

If you are looking to make an impact in a dynamic and visionary company, we invite you to apply for this opportunity at McKinney Specialty Labs.