At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead corporate development to drive innovative drug discovery and strategic partnerships.
- Company: Join Isomorphic Labs, a pioneering AI-driven biotech company.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, collaborative culture, and opportunities for impactful work.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment focused on collaboration and personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to solve diseases using cutting-edge AI technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in corporate development or life sciences investment with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 £ per year.
Isomorphic Labs is applying frontier AI to help unlock deeper scientific insights, faster breakthroughs, and life-changing medicines with an ambition to solve all disease. The future is coming. A future enabled and enriched by the incredible power of machine learning. A future in which diseases are curtailed or cured starting with better and faster drug discovery. Come and be part of an interdisciplinary team driving groundbreaking innovation and play a meaningful role in contributing towards us achieving our ambitious goals, while being a part of an inspiring and collaborative culture.
About Iso
Isomorphic Labs (IsoLabs) was launched in 2021 to advance human health by building on and beyond the Nobel-winning AlphaFold system. Since then, our interdisciplinary team of drug discovery experts and machine learning specialists has built powerful new predictive and generative AI models that accelerate scientific discovery at digital speed. Our name comes from the belief that there is an underlying symmetry between biology and information science. By harnessing AI’s powerful capabilities, we can use it to model complex biological phenomena to help design novel molecules, anticipate how drugs will perform and develop innovative medicines to treat and cure some of the world’s most devastating diseases. We have built a world-leading drug design engine comprising AI models that are capable of working across multiple therapeutic areas and drug modalities. We are continually innovating on model architecture and developing cutting-edge capabilities to advance rational drug design. Every day, and with each new breakthrough, we’re getting closer to the promise of digital biology, and achieving our ambitious mission to one day solve all disease with the help of AI.
Your impact
As Principal, Corporate Development, you will serve as the team’s first full-time dedicated leader supporting Isomorphic Labs’ inorganic growth strategy and execution. Reporting to the VP of Corporate Strategy & Development, you will ensure our scientific and AI breakthroughs are paired with rigorous business case development, disciplined opportunity evaluation, and seamless transaction execution. Working at the centre of a highly collaborative cross-functional team, spanning R&D, Machine Learning, Business Development, Strategy & Operations, Legal, and Finance, you will own the end-to-end lifecycle of corporate transactions that expand our platform capabilities and long-term ecosystem reach. You will apply strong scientific and technical judgment to proactively identify and evaluate emerging opportunities, partner deeply with technical leaders to shape strategic recommendations, and lead high-impact acquisitions, minority investments, and strategic ventures from initial concept through close.
What you will do
- Market landscaping & scientific triage: Proactively map the external landscape across digital biology, biotechnology, and enabling technologies to identify opportunities that accelerate Isomorphic Labs’ long-term roadmap. Act as a rigorous first-pass technical and commercial filter - assessing scientific validity, technological differentiation, and strategic fit early so internal R&D teams focus on the highest-conviction opportunities.
- Business partnering & strategic case development: Build and maintain trusted relationships with business partners across Machine Learning, R&D, and Commercial to evaluate complex inorganic opportunities and crystalise clear, objective business cases. Synthesise scientific, technical, and financial considerations into structured executive recommendations (build vs. partner vs. invest/acquire) for the Executive Leadership Team.
- Lead end-to-end transaction execution: Proactively self-direct and run corporate deals end-to-end from business case development, valuation modeling, term sheet negotiation through due diligence orchestration, definitive agreements, and closing governance.
- Strategic investments & ecosystem building: Execute investments and innovative partnership structures that cultivate the broader tech-bio ecosystem, establish long-term strategic optionality, and align external innovation with Isomorphic Labs’ platform vision.
- Strategic evaluation: Act as the primary filter for inbound opportunities, evaluating the alignment with our long-term strategy and the broader business opportunity. Drafting and presenting materials that synthesise complex technical diligence into clear, actionable executive recommendations.
- Cross-functional operating rhythm & governance: Manage the day-to-day operational cadence of our cross-functional corporate development workflows. Maintain pipeline tracking and executive reporting, ensure seamless coordination and handoffs with Business Development and R&D, and build repeatable playbooks for transaction evaluation, diligence, and integration readiness.
- Flex into strategy & ops: Flex into broader strategy and operational projects, supporting Corporate Strategy and strategic initiatives.
Skills and qualifications
- Scientific & technical fluency: Degree or equivalent domain experience in life-sciences related field, with the ability to critically evaluate emerging biological and computational technologies.
- End-to-end deal execution track record: Proven experience in Corporate Development, Venture Capital / Company Creation, or Life Sciences Investment Banking / Private Equity, with a demonstrated track record of leading transactions (M&A, minority equity investments, asset acquisitions, or joint ventures) from initial business case development to legal close.
- Business case & financial rigor: Proven experience in valuation methodologies, creative deal structuring, and executive communication - able to distil complex technical and commercial diligence into clear decision frameworks for senior leadership and key stakeholders.
- Cross-functional program & operational leadership: Demonstrated ability to drive the operational rhythm of a lean, matrixed team - aligning technical, legal, finance, and business stakeholders through influence, maintaining high-hygiene pipeline reporting, and executing complex initiatives.
- Teamwork and collaboration: Proven track record in business partnering, influencing senior leadership, and excellence in stakeholder management.
- Proactive ownership & judgment: A self-directed builder with strong commercial instinct, intellectual honesty, and discipline to disqualify low-signal opportunities quickly.
- Strategic & operational agility: Ability to 'crunch the number' while also flexing into broader commercial strategy and operational projects as the business scales.
Culture and values
We are guided by our shared values. It's not about finding people who think and act in the same way. These values help to guide our work and will continue to strengthen it.
- Thoughtful: Thoughtful at Iso is about curiosity, creativity and care. It is about good people doing good, rigorous and future-making science every single day.
- Brave: Brave at Iso is about fearlessness, but it’s also about initiative and integrity. The scale of the challenge demands nothing less.
- Determined: Determined at Iso is the way we pursue our goal. It’s a confidence in our hypothesis, as well as the urgency and agility needed to deliver on it. Because disease won’t wait, so neither should we.
- Together: Together at Iso is about connection, collaboration across fields and catalytic relationships. It’s knowing that transformation is a group project, and remembering that what we’re doing will have a real impact on real people everywhere.
Creating an extraordinary company
We believe that to be successful we need a team with a range of skills and talents. We're building an environment where collaboration is fundamental, learning is shared and every employee feels supported and able to thrive. We value unique experiences, knowledge, backgrounds, and perspectives, and harness these qualities to create extraordinary impact. We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of sex, race, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding) or any other basis protected by applicable law.
If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us know.
Hybrid working
It’s hugely important for us to share knowledge and build strong relationships with each other, and we find it easier to do this if we spend time together in person. This is why we follow a hybrid model, and would require you to be able to come into the office 3 days a week (currently Tuesday, Wednesday, and one other day depending on which team you’re in). If you have additional needs that would prevent you from following this hybrid approach, we’d be happy to talk through these if you’re selected for an initial screening call.
Principal, Corporate Development, London employer: Isomorphic Labs
Isomorphic Labs is an exceptional employer, fostering a collaborative and innovative culture that empowers employees to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in drug discovery through AI. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the company offers opportunities for continuous learning and development while working in a vibrant London location that encourages creativity and teamwork. Join us to be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to making a real impact on global health, all within a supportive and inclusive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal, Corporate Development, London
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Jumping into industry events or leadership conferences can really help boost your visibility. Not only will you meet potential employers, but you’ll also get the chance to connect with other leaders in corporate management. Look for local or even virtual events that focus on leadership—every connection counts!
✨Engage in Professional Networks
Join professional management associations relevant to your career goals. These networks often host workshops, panels, and networking events that can put you in front of hiring managers. Plus, they can give you the scoop on upcoming roles, such as the full-time positions with companies like Isomorphic Labs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
When reaching out to potential employers, particularly for leadership roles, demonstrate your leadership capabilities with real examples. Share stories from your previous positions that illustrate how you handled challenges and drove results. This will help you stand out when you apply to places like Isomorphic Labs.
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Ensure your LinkedIn profile is specifically tailored to corporate leadership. Highlight achievements, showcase relevant content and engage with posts in management groups. This not only builds your credibility but keeps you on the radar of companies looking for candidates like you as they post full-time opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal, Corporate Development, London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Leadership Skills:In the corporate leadership and management field, it's essential to highlight your leadership experience. Use your CV to flesh out examples of how you've led teams to success or managed significant projects. We want to see specific instances where your actions made a tangible difference in your previous roles!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers talk, especially in management! When detailing your achievements in your CV or cover letter, don’t just say you improved team performance. Instead, say you boosted productivity by 30% over six months through effective strategy implementation. This makes your application pop and shows us what you can bring to Isomorphic Labs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to narrate your professional journey. We’re looking for motivation and a clear understanding of what corporate leadership means to you. Dive into your aspirations and how they align with the values and vision of Isomorphic Labs. Make it personal – we want to get to know you!
Tailor Your CV for Management Roles:Ensure your CV reflects the management skills that are essential for this role. Focus on competencies like strategic planning, team building, and problem-solving. Use a clean layout, and don’t forget to align your experiences with those keywords mentioned in the job listing. This will help you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Isomorphic Labs
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
You’ll want to thoroughly convey your unique approach to leadership. During the interview with Isomorphic Labs, be ready to share real-life examples of how you've inspired and motivated teams in the past. Think about specific achievements that illustrate your strategic thinking and your ability to drive results.
✨Brush Up on Management Theories
Expect some technical questions related to management theories and practices. Brush up on concepts like transformational leadership, servant leadership, or situational leadership. Be prepared to discuss how you would apply these theories to the role at Isomorphic Labs, especially in the specific context of the challenges they’re currently facing.
✨Craft Your Vision for the Company
Since this is a full-time leadership role, spending time thinking about your vision for Isomorphic Labs could really set you apart. Consider potential strategies for growth and how you would lead teams towards achieving them. This shows not just enthusiasm, but also strategic foresight that they’ll likely be looking for in a candidate.
✨Emphasise Team Dynamics and Culture
In corporate leadership, team dynamics and organisational culture are everything. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered a positive work environment in previous roles. Bring up examples of how you've managed diverse teams effectively—this will resonate well at Isomorphic Labs as they’re likely seeking a candidate who can enhance their workplace culture.