Job description
The Scientific Venture Associate helps identify, evaluate, and advance investment opportunities for the Gund Vision Fund that have the potential to transform the treatment of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) and dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Working at the intersection of science, biotechnology, and investing, this individual will support all stages of the investment process, including opportunity sourcing, due diligence, investment analysis, and portfolio monitoring.
This is a unique opportunity for a scientist with a strong understanding of therapeutic development to help shape the future of retinal disease treatment. Working at the intersection of science, biotechnology, and investing, you'll evaluate breakthrough innovations, support the growth of emerging companies, and help advance therapies that have the potential to meaningfully improve the lives of people affected by retinal diseases.
The Gund Vision Fund(formerly the RD Fund), the venture philanthropy arm of the Foundation Fighting Blindness, invests in companies developing treatments and cures for inherited retinal diseases and dry AMD. By combining scientific expertise with mission-driven investing, the Fund helps bridge the gap between promising discoveries and therapies that can people affected by retinal diseases.
Responsibilities include:
Support all stages of new investment evaluation, including:
Sourcing and screening new investment opportunities
Conducting scientific, clinical, and commercial due diligence
Preparing and presenting investment memos and recommendations
Analyze the inherited retinal disease (IRD) and dry AMD therapeutic landscape and market trends to assess scientific merit, competitive dynamics, and ROI potential
Participate in Board meetings, contributing diligence findings and investment analyses to discussions
Collaborate with internal fundraising teams to support Fund campaign, including preparing and updating marketing collateral for major donors
Essential Qualifications
An advanced degree (PhD preferred) in Biomedical science
Proven scientific track record with a deep understanding of retinal biology
Venture-backed Industry experience and strong familiarity with company startups
General understanding of the current industry trends and competitive landscape
Therapeutic research and development experience
Working knowledge of data analysis, performance, and operational metrics
Entrepreneurial and self-starting, able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and public speaking skills
Exceptional judgment, trust, integrity, sensitivity, diplomacy, and attention to detail
Position Specifics:
Schedule: Full‑time, Monday–Friday, with flexibility; occasional evenings and weekends required for events
Work Environment: This is a work‑from‑home position, but not a “work from anywhere” role. Candidates residing in or near the San Francisco Bay Area, Greater Boston area, North Carolina Research Triangle region will receive first consideration.
Starting Salary Range: $135k-$155k annually. This is the anticipated hiring range for the position. Final offer will be based on several factors, including relevant experience, skills, geographic labor market considerations, and internal equity with comparable roles.
Additional Compensation: Annual Bonus Eligible up to 8%
Tools & support:Company-provided HP or Mac laptop, monitor, printer, and a $120 monthly technology stipend
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt
People management: No direct reports
Originally posted on Himalayas
Who can apply
Eligible countries: United States. Accepted UTC offsets: UTC-10, UTC-9, UTC-8, UTC-7, UTC-6, UTC-5, UTC+14. Review the full description for employer-specific work authorization, residency and schedule requirements.