We are currently seeking a highly motivated and results-driven Director of the Discovery Platform to lead our client’s drug discovery function, collaborating with colleagues in cell and molecular biology, medicinal chemistry, biochemistry, and data science. The ideal candidate will have a strong scientific background, a deep understanding of the drug discovery process, and a track record of success in driving innovation within a multidisciplinary team.
A leading and innovative biotechnology company, with a cutting-edge proprietary technology platform, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Director of Discovery Platform to join their growing team. Our client is committed to pushing the boundaries of science, transforming drug discovery and development, and ultimately revolutionising patient care. They pride themselves on fostering a collaborative and diverse work environment where the brightest minds come together to drive breakthroughs in biotechnology.
This role offers a unique opportunity for someone looking to engage deeply with a wide array of scientific disciplines and contribute directly to advances in biotechnology. It's a position that demands both expertise and a commitment to real-world scientific progress.
Key Roles and Responsibilities:
- Oversee the planning, design, execution, and follow-up of cell-based and biochemical screening campaigns to fuel the company’s pipeline.
- Optimise and innovate the company’s technology platform, scout for service providers, as well as licensing and collaboration opportunities.
- Proactively identify issues across multiple projects and lead the drug discovery teams to cross-functional solutions to drive project decision-making.
- Represent the drug discovery function to both internal stakeholders and external Partners.
- Lead productive discussions on key scientific and strategic issues with internal and external colleagues at all levels and across all disciplines.
- Contribute to external communication and reporting and provide mentorship to scientific staff across all scientific disciplines.
Key Requirements:
- PhD in biology, pharmacology, biochemistry, or a related bioscience discipline.
- Extensive experience in high-throughput (ideally cell-based) screening and early drug discovery, including development and benchmarking of screening assays, execution and evaluation of screening campaigns, validation, and mechanistic characterisation of hits.
- Demonstrated leadership and project management skills in a biopharma drug discovery group (5+ years), experience in supervising multiple interdisciplinary projects of in-house teams and/or CROs, and creative problem-solving skills.
- Understanding the current oncology or neuroscience target space is of advantage.
- Excellent communication, and interpersonal skills and the ability to make complex decisions in a timely manner.
If you are interested in joining the team and would like further details, please contact James Trott at Aspire Life Sciences at james.trott@aspirelifesciences.com