At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in sleep biology and neurodegeneration at a pioneering biotech company.
- Company: Join AstronauTx, a cutting-edge biotech focused on transforming Alzheimer's treatment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, equity options, and comprehensive benefits.
- Other info: Relocation support available for candidates outside the UK; excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neuroscience and drug discovery while leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field with 12+ years of experience in biotech or academic research.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 150000 £ per year.
About AstronauTx
Founded in 2019, AstronauTx is a London-based biotech developing first-in-class therapeutics that target sleep architecture as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. Our thesis being that sleep is a modifiable risk factor for chronic neurodegeneration that has been largely overlooked as a therapeutic entry point. Our approach combines EEG-based biological endpoints, glymphatic biology, and advanced data analytics to precisely quantify sleep architecture and therapeutic impact. We are now preparing to advance our lead programmes into clinical development, backed by a strong syndicate of life sciences investors.
Position Summary
The Vice President, Head of Discovery Biology will be responsible for executing the company's scientific research strategy, overseeing discovery stage programs, and leading a high-performing team of biologists and a network of academic collaborators. This leader will guide the development of novel therapeutic approaches that enhance or modulate sleep architecture to slow or reverse neurodegenerative processes.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership
- Execute the company's research roadmap aligned with corporate goals
- Drive innovation in the study of sleep architecture and its role in neurodegeneration
- Collaborate with executive leadership on R&D investment and portfolio decisions
- Programme Oversight
- Operational leadership of preclinical programmes including target discovery, validation, and proof-of-concept studies
- Ensure robust experimental design, data integrity, and reproducibility across research programmes
- Translate findings into clinical development candidates in partnership with medicinal chemistry, translational, and clinical development teams
- Team Management
- Recruit, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team of neuroscientists, biologists, pharmacologists, and data scientists
- Foster a culture of scientific rigour, collaboration, and continuous learning
- External Engagement
- Cultivate and manage relationships with academic collaborators and CROs
- Represent the company at scientific conferences and in the broader neuroscience community
- Operational Excellence
- Manage research budgets, timelines, and resources efficiently
- Ensure compliance with ethical and regulatory standards in all research practices
Qualifications
- PhD in Neuroscience, Neurobiology, Pharmacology, or a related field; postdoctoral training preferred
- 12+ years of experience in biotech/pharma or academic research, with a strong track record in neuroscience or sleep biology
- Proven leadership experience in discovery research or therapeutic development
- Deep knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases, neurophysiology, and sleep architecture
- Familiarity with in vivo electrophysiology, EEG-based approaches, imaging techniques, and omics methods
- Ability to deploy contemporary analytical methods to leverage large-scale datasets and gain mechanistic insights into sleep biology
- Excellent communication, team leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills
Preferred Experience
- Experience developing small molecules, biologics, or neurostimulation approaches targeting CNS disorders
- Publication record in top-tier journals relevant to sleep, cognition, or neurodegeneration
Why Join AstronauTx?
AstronauTx sits at a genuinely unique intersection of neuroscience, sleep biology, and drug discovery, targeting a mechanism that is both scientifically compelling and largely untapped by the pharmaceutical industry. You will join a mission-driven team at a pivotal moment in the company's growth, with the chance to define and lead the discovery biology function as we move toward the clinic.
We offer a competitive compensation package including base salary, performance bonus, and equity participation, alongside a comprehensive benefits package. Relocation support is available for candidates based outside the UK.
To Apply: Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your vision for sleep and neurodegeneration research.
Vice President, Head of Discovery Biology (London, UK) employer: AstronauTx
AstronauTx is an exceptional employer that stands at the forefront of innovative biotech research, focusing on groundbreaking therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases. With a strong commitment to fostering a collaborative and rigorous work culture, employees are encouraged to grow through mentorship and engagement with leading academic partners. The London location not only offers vibrant city life but also provides relocation support for those moving from abroad, making it an attractive opportunity for talented individuals seeking meaningful contributions in the field of neuroscience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice President, Head of Discovery Biology (London, UK)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to AstronauTx. LinkedIn is your best mate here; drop them a message and express your interest in their work. You never know who might put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company's research focus. Understand their approach to sleep architecture and neurodegeneration. Bring your insights to the table during discussions; it shows you're genuinely interested and knowledgeable about what they do.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! As a VP, they'll want to see how you can manage and inspire a team. Think of examples from your past experiences where you led a project or mentored someone, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at AstronauTx. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Vice President, Head of Discovery Biology (London, UK)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Vice President, Head of Discovery Biology. Highlight your relevant experience in neuroscience and leadership roles, and don’t forget to showcase any specific achievements that align with our mission at AstronauTx.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your vision for sleep and neurodegeneration research, and explain how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and aligned with our goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a VP, we want to see your leadership style! Include examples of how you've successfully managed teams and driven innovation in your previous roles. This will help us understand how you can lead our high-performing team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and keep track of your application. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our mission!
How to prepare for a job interview at AstronauTx
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest research in neuroscience and sleep biology. Be prepared to discuss how your expertise aligns with the company's focus on neurodegenerative diseases and sleep architecture. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a Vice President, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams, driven innovation, and collaborated across functions. Highlight specific achievements that showcase your ability to lead a high-performing team in a scientific setting.
✨Engage with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with AstronauTx's approach to drug discovery and their unique position in the market. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for their mission and share your vision for advancing research in sleep and neurodegeneration. This will help you connect with the interviewers on a deeper level.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the company's research roadmap, team dynamics, and future projects. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company culture and goals align with your own aspirations.
