At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead biology strategy in drug discovery from hit-finding to candidate selection.
- Company: Join Pharmaron, a dynamic CRO focused on innovative therapies.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative team driving innovation in healthcare.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in drug discovery and collaborate with global experts.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and 5-10+ years in drug discovery biology.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: UK | Hybrid
Pharmaron is seeking an experienced Associate Principal Scientist – Biology to lead biological strategy across integrated small molecule drug discovery projects. This is a critical, client-facing role supporting programmes from hit identification through to candidate selection, working across multiple therapeutic areas and modalities.
The Integrated Drug Discovery (IDD) Services group at Pharmaron is responsible for leading and delivering drug discovery projects for our client partners. The team comprises scientific expertise and strategic leadership across medicinal chemistry, CADD, biology, DMPK and translational science. Combined with Pharmaron’s global research capabilities we design and deliver integrated programmes from target identification and hit finding through to IND filing. Working closely with our partners we define strategy, coordinate execution across teams and with an AI enabled accelerated Design–Make–Test–Analyse cycles support the progression of projects and innovative medicines towards the clinic.
The Role
- Lead and deliver biology strategy across discovery programmes, from hit-finding to candidate selection
- Provide scientific and technical leadership to develop assays to address key project questions, such as mechanism of action and biological differentiation
- Interpret in vitro data and guide data-driven decision making to advance projects
- Collaborate closely with global teams and partner organisations to ensure efficient project delivery
- Apply innovative problem-solving to overcome technical challenges
- Present data, strategy and progress to internal stakeholders and external partners
- Support proposal development and new business opportunities
- Maintain compliance with GxP, SOPs and regulatory standards
About You
- PhD in Pharmacology, Biological Sciences or related discipline
- 5–10+ years’ experience in a drug discovery biology role (Pharma, Biotech or CRO)
- Strong track record supporting small molecule drug discovery programmes
- Experience managing external collaborations and cross‑functional teams
Key Skills
- Deep expertise in in vitro biology assays and data interpretation
- Strong understanding of drug discovery processes, including DMPK and toxicology considerations
- Proficiency in data analysis and relevant scientific software
- Ability to translate complex data into clear scientific direction
Key Attributes
- Proactive, accountable and delivery‑focused
- Strong decision‑making and scientific judgement
- Collaborative and effective across global, matrixed teams
- Adaptable, organised and comfortable managing multiple priorities
- Passion for innovation and continuous learning
Why Join Pharmaron?
- Work on diverse, cutting‑edge discovery programmes
- Collaborate with global scientific experts
- Play a key role in delivering innovative therapies
- Be part of a growing, client‑focused CRO environment
Associate Principal Scientist – Biology employer: Pharmaron
Pharmaron is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment, where you can lead innovative drug discovery projects alongside global scientific experts. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, Pharmaron provides opportunities to work on cutting-edge programmes while maintaining a client-centric approach in a hybrid setting. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the field of biology and contribute to the advancement of transformative therapies.
