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- Tasks: Lead early-stage drug discovery in oncology and immunology, shaping scientific direction.
- Company: Join a dynamic biotech firm focused on innovative therapeutics.
- Benefits: Work closely with executives and influence impactful programmes in a fast-evolving environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in drug discovery while building a talented team.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in biotech/pharma with oncology experience and CRO management skills.
- Other info: This role offers a strategic position without lab operations.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
I’m supporting a confidential biotech client on a high-impact leadership search for a Head of Biology to guide early-stage drug discovery efforts in oncology and immunology. This is a really exciting opportunity to work in a strategic, cross-functional role where you’ll partner closely with chemistry and development teams — focusing not on lab ops, but on shaping the scientific direction behind novel therapeutics.
What You'll Do
- Define biological rationale across the small molecule discovery portfolio
- Oversee CRO-driven in vitro and in vivo execution
- Partner with leadership on go/no-go decisions and portfolio prioritisation
- Build and lead a small, expert internal biology team
You Might Be a Fit If You Have:
- 10+ years in biotech/pharma discovery
- Oncology or immuno-oncology experience
- Track record of moving targets from concept to preclinical validation
- Confidence leading biology strategy without internal lab infrastructure
- Experience managing CROs and navigating scientific uncertainty
Why This Role?
- Work directly with executive leadership
- Influence programs at an early and meaningful stage
- Contribute to a well-resourced, fast-evolving biotech
- Shape the trajectory of first-in-class assets
Interested in learning more? Let’s connect — happy to share details in confidence.
Head of Biology employer: Job Traffic
Contact Detail:
Job Traffic Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Biology
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the biotech and pharma industries, especially those with experience in oncology and immuno-oncology. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and industry leaders who can provide insights into the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and advancements in drug discovery, particularly in small molecule therapeutics. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in leading biology strategy and managing CROs. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've navigated scientific uncertainty and made impactful decisions in your past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s current projects and pipeline. Understanding their focus areas and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your expertise aligns with their goals during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Biology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience in biotech and pharma discovery, particularly in oncology or immuno-oncology. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held and specific projects where you guided drug discovery efforts.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for early-stage drug discovery and how your background aligns with the strategic goals of the company. Mention your experience in leading biology strategy and managing CROs, showcasing your ability to navigate scientific uncertainty.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: Include specific examples of your track record in moving targets from concept to preclinical validation. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness in previous roles.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since this role involves building and leading a small internal biology team, make sure to highlight your leadership skills and experiences. Discuss how you've successfully led teams in the past and your approach to fostering collaboration across functions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Traffic
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a Head of Biology, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to define biological rationale and shape scientific direction. Prepare to discuss your vision for early-stage drug discovery and how you would approach oncology and immunology projects.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Experience
With a focus on building and leading a small internal biology team, it's crucial to share examples of your past leadership roles. Discuss how you've successfully managed teams and influenced cross-functional collaboration in previous positions.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to drug discovery, particularly in oncology and immuno-oncology. Brush up on your knowledge of the latest trends and challenges in these fields to showcase your expertise.
✨Demonstrate Your Decision-Making Skills
Since you'll be involved in go/no-go decisions and portfolio prioritisation, be ready to discuss your decision-making process. Share specific examples where you've navigated scientific uncertainty and made impactful choices in your career.
