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- Tasks: Lead translational strategy and design studies for innovative cancer therapies.
- Company: Join a pioneering biotech start-up focused on next-gen cancer treatments.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, equity options, and comprehensive benefits in a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Work closely with the executive team in a flat organisational structure.
- Why this job: Shape early clinical success in a science-first culture tackling high-value oncology targets.
- Qualifications: PhD or MSc/BSc with relevant experience in oncology or pharmacology required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Title:
Associate Director | Translational Sciences
Location:
London, United Kingdom | Hybrid
Salary:
Competitive
Contract Type:
Permanent
Apsida Life Science is currently partnering with a well-funded, pre-clinical biotechnology company pioneering next-generation bispecific antibody-drug conjugates for cancer treatment. Backed by academic innovation and led by a seasoned scientific team, this start-up is driving the development of novel therapies with differentiated payloads and targeting capabilities.
With a modular high-throughput discovery platform and its lead programme preparing to enter first-in-human studies, this is a rare opportunity to join a science-first environment where your translational expertise can shape early clinical success.
Responsibilities:
- Lead translational strategy across the bsADC pipeline using the “5 Rs” framework
- Design and interpret studies on payload mechanisms, internalisation kinetics, and bystander effect
- Oversee biomarker and PK/PD modelling and integration of DMPK, safety, and discovery data to support IND readiness
- Contribute to early clinical development including patient selection, protocol input, and site strategy
- Support KOL engagement, regulatory communications, and investor relations
- Collaborate closely with discovery scientists, regulatory consultants, and external advisors
Qualifications:
- PhD + 5 years or MSc/BSc + 10 years of experience in oncology, immunology, or pharmacology
- Hands-on experience in ADC development, PK/PD, and translational study design
- Proven track record in IND-enabling activities and early-phase clinical planning
- Familiarity with biomarker development, payload optimisation, and tissue distribution models
- Experience working in fast-paced biotech/start-up environments preferred
- Strong communicator with cross-functional leadership experience
Position Highlights:
- Shape the transition of a lead bsADC asset into first-in-human studies
- Work directly with the CSO and executive team in a flat, collaborative organisation
- Contribute to the strategic scientific direction across discovery, development, and clinical translation
- Access equity options and full benefits as part of a fast-growing biotech team
- Flexibility with hybrid working from a central London location
- Be part of a science-led company tackling high-value oncology targets with novel modalities
If you are interested in learning more, please contact Finley Lenihan at Apsida Life Science:
Apsida Life Science is a specialist recruitment business based in London (UK), Redhill (UK), Boston (USA) & Pretoria (South Africa) that is dedicated to delivering the best talent to the Life Science industry. We believe there is a gap in the market for a cost effective, high quality and trusted recruitment service that puts the candidate journey at the heart of the recruitment process.
Associate Director | Translational Sciences employer: Apsida Life Science
Contact Detail:
Apsida Life Science Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director | Translational Sciences
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the biotechnology and oncology fields. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and leaders in the field. This can help you gain insights into the company culture and possibly get a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in bispecific antibody-drug conjugates (bsADCs) and translational sciences. Being well-versed in current research and trends will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in IND-enabling activities and early-phase clinical planning. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to similar projects, as this will showcase your expertise and fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Engage with the company's online presence. Follow them on social media, read their publications, and participate in discussions related to their work. This will not only keep you informed but also show your enthusiasm for their mission when you interact with them.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director | Translational Sciences
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in oncology, immunology, or pharmacology. Emphasise your hands-on experience with ADC development and any involvement in IND-enabling activities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for translational sciences and your understanding of the '5 Rs' framework. Mention specific projects or achievements that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Leadership Experience: Since the role requires cross-functional leadership, be sure to include examples of your leadership experience in fast-paced biotech environments. Discuss how you've successfully collaborated with diverse teams.
Showcase Communication Skills: As strong communication is key for this position, provide examples of how you've engaged with KOLs, regulatory bodies, or investors. This will demonstrate your ability to support stakeholder engagement effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Apsida Life Science
✨Understand the 5 Rs Framework
Familiarise yourself with the '5 Rs' framework that the company uses for translational strategy. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with this framework and how you can apply it to their bispecific antibody-drug conjugates.
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Highlight your hands-on experience in ADC development, PK/PD, and translational study design. Be ready to provide specific examples of past projects where you successfully contributed to IND-enabling activities or early-phase clinical planning.
✨Demonstrate Cross-Functional Leadership
Since the role requires collaboration with various teams, emphasise your experience in cross-functional leadership. Share instances where you effectively communicated and worked with discovery scientists, regulatory consultants, or external advisors.
✨Prepare for KOL Engagement Scenarios
As the position involves supporting KOL engagement and regulatory communications, think about how you would approach these interactions. Prepare to discuss strategies you've used in the past to engage key opinion leaders and manage investor relations.