Principal Scientist/Director and Team Leader, Oncology Bioscience

Role Summary

Principal Scientist/Director and Team Leader, Oncology Bioscience — lead small molecule drug discovery for oncology, guiding projects within the Oncology Targeted Discovery department. Provide scientific leadership in cancer biology and drug discovery, collaborating in a dynamic team to advance oncology medicines and support department and site leadership.

Responsibilities

• Report directly to the Head of Small Molecule Bioscience (US).
• Lead preclinical drug discovery from target identification to lead optimization and candidate nomination.
• Focus on solid cancer, specifically GI cancers.
• Serve as bioscience lead on drug discovery projects.
• Ensure effective communication and representation in multi-functional teams, supporting decision-making.
• Partner with and work closely with the UK SM Biosciences team to drive delivery of SM Projects forward.
• Mentor, coach and develop junior team members in the Bioscience department.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners as a recognized scientific leader.
• Identify and apply new technologies and innovative approaches to improve drug discovery processes.
• Provide scientific advice across Discovery Research Area or Development disciplines as a technical expert.
• Encourage and reward innovation and entrepreneurial spirit within the scientific community.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.Sc in a biology-related discipline, with > 8 years of proven experience in oncology drug discovery.
• Extensive industry experience driving small molecule drug discovery from conception to candidate nomination; track record in delivering clinical candidates and INDs.
• Demonstrated scientific excellence with a strong publication record.
• Strong leadership skills to drive multiple projects, run cross-functional teams, and influence stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and decision-making skills.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Experience with hard-to-drug targets, transcription factors, and novel targeting approaches including induced proximity.
• Strong project leadership with a track record of delivering projects to IND.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, fast-paced team environment.
• Proficiency with AI tools and applying AI in modern drug discovery.
• Experience mentoring junior scientists and team members.
• Deep understanding of the emerging clinical landscape in solid cancers, with focus on GI cancers, plus lung, pancreatic, breast, and prostate cancers.