We are seeking an innovative and hands-on scientific leader to serve as Head of Pipeline Biology, responsible for advancing the biological development of our client's pioneering bispecific TCR therapeutics targeting AML and solid tumours. This is a critical leadership role in progressing first-in-class, first-in-human molecules to the clinic.
Key Responsibilities
Scientific Leadership & Strategy
* Lead the preclinical biology group, overseeing in vitro and in vivo testing of bispecific TCR molecules.
* Design and implement assays to assess binding specificity, T cell activation, and T cell-mediated killing.
* Develop testing strategies to evaluate efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action.
* Collaborate with Protein Engineering to optimise candidate molecules.
Regulatory & Translational Development
* Drive the generation of data packages to support regulatory submissions (MHRA, FDA, EMA).
* Contribute to Clinical Trial Authorisation (CTA) and IND/NDA applications.
* Engage with regulatory bodies and external experts to ensure alignment with global standards.
Team & Operational Leadership
* Manage and mentor a growing team of cell biologists (initially 3–4 scientists).
* Oversee budgets, timelines, and reporting for biological testing activities.
* Present findings to the Senior Leadership Team and external stakeholders.
* Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence.
Experience & Qualifications
Background
* PhD in Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related discipline.
* At least 5 years of R&D experience within biotechnology or pharmaceutical settings, ideally in TCR therapeutics, bispecifics, or immuno-oncology.
* Demonstrable hands-on experience in evaluating the safety and efficacy of high-affinity soluble TCR molecules.
* Proven track record in non-clinical development and regulatory interactions.
* Experience contributing to successful regulatory submissions and clinical trial initiation.
Technical Expertise
* In-depth understanding of T-cell biology, cellular assays, and molecular techniques, including target binding, T-cell activation, and cytotoxicity assays both in vitro and in vivo.
* Proficiency in lentiviral transduction, molecular cloning, and engineering of isogenic cell lines.
* Experience in maintaining diverse cell systems, including human organoids, and primary human cells.
* Skilled in multi-colour flow cytometry, EliSpot, luminometry, and fluorescence-based assays.
Leadership & Communication
* Demonstrated leadership in developing and implementing scientific strategies.
* Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific data to senior leadership and external audiences.
* Strong record of cross-functional collaboration and evidence-based decision-making.
* Experience managing budgets, project timelines, and preparing technical reports.
* Ability to represent an organisation’s work through publications and scientific presentations.
* Familiarity with the requirements for preparing preclinical data packages for CTA (MHRA) and NDA (FDA/EMA) submissions.