Head of Oncology Drug Discovery and Development

Head of Oncology Drug Discovery and Development
Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology
Associate Director for Translational Research
UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center

The Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology (MIoB) at the University of Virginia (UVA) seeks a visionary Head of Oncology Drug Discovery and Development (HOD³) to set the strategy, advance the research mission of transforming science into medicines, and elevate the national profile of the Institute.

The Manning Institute will focus and project UVA’s commitment to research in biotechnology by promoting collaborative science and establishing a state-of-the-art campus centered on the research, development, commercialization, manufacturing, and patient care of new and innovative cellular, gene, and immuno-therapies. The Manning Institute will provide a confluence of researchers and scientific leaders from all biomedical, engineering, and chemical sciences at the University as well as catalyze innovation and stimulate collaboration throughout the state by bringing together world-class researchers in biotechnology who will bring life-changing and life-saving treatments to those who need them the most. The ultimate outcome is to ensure that no Virginian needs to leave the Commonwealth to obtain high-quality state-of-the-art health care.

The HOD³ will serve as the primary champion for the Oncology therapeutic area within the Manning Institute of Biotechnology (MIoB) and serve as the Associate Director for Translational Research in the UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center (UVACCC).

They will be responsible for integrating cutting edge science, clinical development insights, competitive intelligence, and commercialization considerations to advance a high-value pipeline from discovery into clinical trials. Reporting directly to the Head of the Manning Institute and serving on the Manning Institute Leadership Team, this individual will develop and execute MIoB’s research and technology platform priorities, support translational research programs, and advance the Institute’s mission to accelerate the discovery and development of transformative medicines. Additionally, as the Associate Director for Translational Research in the UVACCC, the HOD³ will be a member of the Senior Leadership Group in support of the UVACCC Director.

This executive leadership position requires a deep understanding of oncology research, biotechnology platforms, drug discovery and development and strong leadership capabilities with the ability to collaborate effectively with researchers, licensing and ventures professionals and regulatory leaders. The HOD³ serves as the primary architect of the Institute’s Oncology drug discovery vision, fosters high-performing research and development teams, builds institutional and external partnerships with industry, and steers the Institute toward sustained growth, competitiveness for federal and philanthropic funding, and national prominence.

Candidates will have earned an advanced degree (PhD, MD, PharmD or equivalent) in life sciences, biotechnology, or a related field, have a minimum of 10+ years of leadership experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical R&D, or academic translational research, and ideally have experience mentoring teams through drug development milestones, including IND submission and/or startup formation.

Korn Ferry is assisting UVA with this important recruitment. Applications should include a detailed curriculum vitae and a letter of interest. To ensure full consideration, inquiries, nominations, and applications should be submitted electronically, in confidence, to View email address on us.fitly.work .