Job Title: Drug Discovery Oncology Project Leader (Biology)

Location: United Kingdom (Hybrid/Flexible)

Employment Type: Full-time

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Drug Discovery Oncology Project Leader with a strong biology background to lead innovative oncology programmes from early target identification through to candidate selection. This role will play a critical part in shaping biological strategy, ensuring deep understanding of disease biology, mechanism of action and translational relevance across programmes.

You will provide scientific leadership to multidisciplinary teams, acting as the biological authority within projects and driving robust, hypothesis-led decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead oncology drug discovery programmes with a primary focus on tumour biology, disease mechanisms and target validation
• Define and drive biological strategy, including mechanism of action, pathway biology and disease relevance
• Oversee design and interpretation of in vitro and in vivo biology studies, ensuring translational relevance
• Guide biomarker identification and translational biology strategies to support clinical progression
• Work closely with Medicinal Chemistry, DMPK, Safety and Translational teams to ensure biology-led optimisation
• Develop and manage integrated project plans, milestones and scientific risk mitigation
• Act as the scientific lead for biology in project governance and senior leadership discussions
• Ensure high scientific quality, data integrity and clear decision criteria across programmes
• Mentor and support biologists within project teams, fostering scientific excellence

Skills & Experience

• PhD (or equivalent experience) in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology or a related discipline
• Extensive experience in oncology drug discovery biology within pharma or biotech
• Strong expertise in target identification, validation and disease modelling
• Experience with translational biology and biomarker strategy is highly desirable
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence without direct authority
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex biology into clear strategy

Why Join Us?

• Lead biology-driven oncology programmes with meaningful patient impact
• Influence scientific direction and portfolio strategy
• Collaborative, research-led culture with access to cutting-edge oncology platforms
• Competitive salary, benefits and flexible working

How to Apply

If you are passionate about cancer biology and driven to translate biological insight into transformative medicines, we would love to hear from you. Apply via LinkedIn or contact us for a confidential discussion.