At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in molecular pharmacology for next-gen therapeutic antibodies.
- Company: Fast-growing biotech firm focused on advanced biologics discovery.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities to influence cutting-edge science.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in drug discovery and mentor the next generation of scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field with 5-8 years of industry experience.
The predicted salary is between 66150 - 80850 £ per year.
Location: On‑site, UK
Sector: Advanced Biologics Discovery
Role Type: Full‑time, Permanent
A fast‑growing, venture‑backed biotechnology organisation is seeking an experienced Principal Scientist in Molecular Pharmacology to drive functional characterisation of next‑generation therapeutic antibodies. This role sits at the centre of discovery, generating the pharmacological evidence that shapes lead selection, mechanism‑of‑action understanding, and candidate progression.
You will be the organisation’s expert in ligand–receptor pharmacology, designing and interpreting assays that define how engineered antibodies engage, activate, inhibit, or modulate their targets.
The Opportunity
- Lead the design, optimisation and execution of in vitro molecular and cellular pharmacology assays to define antibody mechanism of action, target engagement, potency, efficacy, and selectivity.
- Translate binding and structural insights into functional pharmacology, partnering closely with antibody engineering, protein science and cell biology teams.
- Provide pharmacology strategy and scientific leadership across discovery programmes, influencing lead identification, lead optimisation, and candidate selection criteria.
- Develop and validate novel cell‑based and biochemical assay platforms, incorporating automation or higher‑throughput approaches where appropriate.
- Collaborate with in vivo pharmacology, DMPK and translational sciences to integrate PK/PD concepts, receptor occupancy and exposure–response relationships.
- Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a culture of rigorous, creative, data‑driven science.
- Communicate complex pharmacology findings clearly to senior leadership and external partners; contribute to publications, patents and conference visibility.
Essential Experience
- A PhD in Pharmacology, Molecular/Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology or related discipline (MSc/BS considered with substantial industry experience).
- 5–8+ years’ industry experience in biotech or pharma, contributing directly to discovery programmes from target validation through lead candidate selection.
- Hands‑on expertise in in vitro pharmacology, including: functional cell‑based assays, reporter systems, flow cytometry, or biochemical and bioanalytical techniques.
- Strong working knowledge of mechanism‑of‑action, target engagement, and structure–function relationships for therapeutic antibodies.
- Ability to interpret complex pharmacological datasets, including dose–response, EC50/IC50, Emax, and selectivity profiles.
- Demonstrated cross‑functional collaboration with antibody engineering, protein science and/or translational teams.
- Excellent communication skills, able to present complex pharmacology clearly to senior management and non‑specialists.
Desirable Experience
- Prior line management or formal mentoring experience.
- Hands‑on functional characterisation of antibodies or other biologics.
- Experience with in vivo or ex vivo pharmacology models, or PK/PD modelling.
- Exposure to automation, high‑throughput discovery or AI/ML‑enabled workflows.
- Therapeutic area experience in oncology, immunology or inflammation.
- Immunogenicity or immunological assay experience.
Who You Are
- A high‑energy, proactive scientist who anticipates challenges and proposes solutions.
- A creative thinker who enjoys exploring new pharmacological approaches.
- A clear communicator able to translate complex concepts to non‑experts.
- A collaborative contributor who thrives in fast‑moving biotech environments.
- A hands‑on mentor who builds capability across the team.
Principal Scientist - Molecular Pharmacology in Oxford employer: Haybury
Join a dynamic and innovative biotechnology organisation in the UK, where your expertise as a Principal Scientist in Molecular Pharmacology will be pivotal in shaping the future of therapeutic antibodies. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, mentorship, and cutting-edge research, this company fosters a culture of creativity and scientific excellence, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Enjoy the benefits of working in a fast-paced environment that values data-driven science and encourages contributions to publications and conferences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Scientist - Molecular Pharmacology in Oxford
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Haybury. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Haybury!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Scientist - Molecular Pharmacology in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Haybury that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Haybury.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Haybury does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Haybury
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Haybury. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Haybury's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Haybury. This shows your passion for the industry!
