Head of In Vivo Pharmacology

Head of In Vivo Pharmacology

Our client is seeking an innovative Head of In Vivo Pharmacology to lead preclinical pharmacology strategy and execution across a growing drug discovery portfolio. Based in the heart of Cambridge's world-renowned biotech ecosystem, this leadership role will be instrumental in advancing novel therapeutic programs from target validation through candidate selection and IND-enabling studies.

The successful candidate will combine scientific excellence with strong leadership capabilities, driving the development and implementation of robust in vivo strategies while building and mentoring a high-performing team of scientists.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide scientific and strategic leadership for all in vivo pharmacology activities across preclinical-stage programs
• Design, oversee, and interpret complex in vivo studies to support target validation, mechanism-of-action investigations and translational research
• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team of in vivo scientists, research associates, and external collaborators
• Partner closely with Discovery Biology, Translational Sciences, DMPK, Toxicology, Biomarkers, and Clinical Development teams to ensure seamless program progression
• Drive the identification, validation, and implementation of relevant disease models and translational endpoints.
• Serve as a key contributor to project teams, governance committees, and portfolio review meetings.
• Manage external CRO relationships and oversee outsourced in vivo studies when appropriate.
• Support regulatory submissions, due diligence activities, and interactions with investors, partners, and scientific advisors.
• Champion animal welfare, ethical research practices, and the implementation of the 3Rs

Required

• PhD in Pharmacology, Biology, Neuroscience, Immunology, Oncology, or a related life sciences discipline
• 10+ years of industry experience within biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or CRO environments.
• Deep expertise in experimental design, pharmacology, disease models, and data interpretation
• Proven leadership experience managing and developing scientific teams
• Strong understanding of translational research and the integration of preclinical data into development strategies
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience within oncology, immunology, inflammation, neuroscience, metabolic disease, or rare diseases would be advantageous

What We Offer

• Opportunity to lead a critical scientific function within a dynamic and growing biotechnology company
• Competitive compensation package including bonus and equity participation
• Comprehensive healthcare, retirement, and wellness benefits
• Collaborative, science-driven culture with access to leading academic and industry networks
• Significant opportunity for career growth and strategic influence within the organisation