Research Associate, Business Development in Oxford

We’re looking for an entry-level scientist who is keen to learn what goes on at the sharp end of a rapidly growing, successful biotech company, based in Oxford.

About Oxford BioTherapeutics: Oxford BioTherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focusing on the development of antibody therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. OBT’s OGAP-Verify® platform is the world's largest, cancer specific, membrane protein library, directly measuring plasma membrane protein expression in patient tumours. OGAP is used to identify novel, highly tumour specific antigens for novel first-in-class ADC, T-cell Engager (TCE) and Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR-T) targets. Our lead asset, OBT076, is an Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Phase 1b clinical development. Our clinical and pre-clinical pipeline of novel biologics is balanced between internal programs, focused on ADCs and checkpoint regulators, and externally partnered programs with key innovators in oncology such as Roche, GSK and Zymeworks.

Purpose of the Role: To drive the scientific “sell” behind OBT’s targets by combining rigorous literature and data research with commercial insight. You will synthesise data coming from target discovery and bioinformatics with competitive intelligence, preparing crisp, BD-ready narratives and materials—helping the team articulate what’s unique and compelling about each target.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Scientific & Market Research: Mine literature, public datasets, conference abstracts, and competitor pipelines to assemble unique selling points for OBT targets (biology, expression, tractability, modality fit). Build and maintain competitive landscapes (targets, modalities, stage, sponsors) and clearly position OBT’s differentiation. Draft and iterate target packages and BD briefing notes; create figures/tables that make the argument quickly and accurately.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner daily with Target Discovery and Bioinformatics to request analyses, confirm data provenance, and close evidence gaps; translate findings into BD-ready narratives. Support BD with slides, one-pagers, and FAQs for external meetings and diligence.
• Contracts Awareness (CDAs/SOWs) & Information Governance: Apply OBT’s process when engaging 3rd parties/CROs: no confidential details (e.g., target IDs, sequences) are shared without an executed CDA/MSA; involve the Contracts Manager/PM as required; use OBT numbers in emails. Review CDAs/SOWs for business and scientific fit (purpose scope, survivability, information boundaries) and raise questions/risks early; route documents via the correct owners and signatures.
• Quality & Compliance: Work in line with OBT’s Quality Management System (QMS), completing required training and following relevant SOPs; contribute to a culture of quality and continuous improvement.

Please note the roles and responsibilities for the position include but are not limited to the above.

Knowledge, Experience, and Skills:

• Degree in Biology, Immunology, Oncology, or related field (MSc preferred or BSc with equivalent experience).
• Demonstrable skill in literature mining and source vetting; able to extract, synthesise, and clearly communicate scientific insights.
• Strong commercial intuition—able to ask “what’s the sell here?” and craft a differentiated story from the science.
• Detail orientation with high standards for accuracy, referencing, and figure/table creation.
• Flexibility & pace: comfortable dropping one task for another and thriving in a dynamic BD environment.
• Collaboration across scientific and business functions; excellent written and verbal communication.
• Experience preparing target packages, competitive landscapes, or BD materials in biotech/pharma.
• Familiarity with oncology targets, ADC/TCE modalities, and translational considerations.
• Exposure to CDA/SOW workflows or diligence support.

Behaviours:

• Curious, evidence-driven, and scientifically rigorous: a love of learning essential.
• Proactive communicator; comfortable seeking clarity and proposing next steps.
• Team-first mindset; respectful, transparent, and dependable.
• Self-motivated, organised, eager to learn and calm under time pressure.

One of our top priorities is to maintain the health and wellbeing of our employees and their families. To achieve this goal, we offer comprehensive benefits.

Benefits Offered:

• Health Cash Plan.
• Generous pension scheme with potential employer contribution of up to 10% (based on match contributions).
• Discretionary annual bonus scheme.
• Free onsite parking.
• Enhanced holiday entitlement above statutory minimum plus public holidays.
• Employee Referral Bonus Program.
• New hire share options.
• Team building events and activities.

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all employees and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Why Join Us: We promote a culture of innovation, responsibility, and collective commitment to our goals. We believe that by bringing together our diverse skills and perspectives, we can develop novel, robust cures for one of today’s most challenging health conditions. Our people often describe OBT’s culture as friendly, collaborative, and hard-working. We recognise that our team is only as strong as the individuals within it, which is why, in addition to hiring the best people, we strive to provide a working environment based on cooperation, creativity, and mutual respect.