Head of Translational

Job title:

Head of Translational

Company:

Barrington James

Job description

SummaryMy client is an innovative multi-specific antibody platform company, developing immune-therapeutics for a variety of hematologic cancers and solid tumors, based in Amsterdam. With a senior leadership team from a variety of top 10-20 pharma and biotech companies they will select their first lead candidate in the next 6 months for development to IND for a US based Phase 1 clinical trial and are looking for a Head of Translational Science to lead their translational strategy.This is a really exciting opportunity to be part of a developing business at the early stages of asset R&D and IND enablement with a business with a truly innovative approach to driving anti-tumor responses, backed by leading biotech specialist investors.About the TeamMy clients research team provides comprehensive scientific capabilities across the entire early-stage drug development process. The team’s expertise encompasses critical domains from initial target identification through preclinical stages, including specialized areas such as antibody engineering, computational design, biological testing, translational modeling, immunogenicity assessment, manufacturability analysis, and comprehensive toxicology and safety evaluations.Underpinning these technical capabilities is a distinctive organizational approach characterized by genuine collaboration, transparency, and an agile operational structure. The team’s flat hierarchy encourages direct communication and rapid decision-making, fostering an environment where innovative thinking and proactive problem-solving are fundamental. By combining deep scientific expertise, creative thinking, and a dynamic cultural approach, the research team is positioned to advance next-generation immuno-oncology therapeutic approaches.About the roleThe Head of Translational Science will be responsible for guiding the scientific progression of immuno-oncology programs from initial discovery through early clinical validation. This role requires comprehensive oversight of both preclinical research and clinical development, with a critical emphasis on clinical pharmacology and biomarker identification. The primary objectives include developing informed drug development strategies, determining preclinical research requirements, and facilitating successful initial clinical trials.The position demands extensive cross-functional collaboration, involving close coordination with research teams, clinical departments, regulatory specialists, and external scientific advisors. Success in this role will require a strategic approach to integrating scientific insights across multiple disciplines, ensuring methodological rigor and alignment with the organization’s broader research and development objectives. The ideal candidate will bridge scientific domains, translating complex research findings into actionable development pathways and clinical investigation protocols.You will report directly to the COO and CSO.Key Responsibilities:Strategic Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive translational strategy by critically evaluating internal data, scientific literature, and integrating insights from cross-functional experts
• Design translational approaches to support first-in-class antibody candidate evaluation and progression from preclinical to clinical development
• Bridge scientific findings between research and clinical teams to advance drug development

Research and Development Focus

• Collaborate with research teams to design proof-of-concept studies and validate drug candidate mechanisms
• Lead preclinical studies to optimize lead candidates and support Investigational New Drug (IND) enabling research
• Guide candidate selection based on potential clinical success

Clinical Development and Biomarker Strategy

• Identify and develop biomarkers for predicting therapeutic response, mechanisms of action, and safety signals
• Oversee pharmacology and pharmacokinetics activities, including dose selection and characterization of therapeutic antibodies
• Coordinate biomarker strategies for patient stratification and clinical trial monitoring

Collaboration and Data Management

• Establish external scientific collaborations and advisory panels
• Select and manage Contract Research Organizations (CROs)
• Analyze and interpret preclinical and clinical study data to inform strategic decisions
• Communicate complex scientific findings to executive leadership and stakeholders

Organizational Infrastructure

• Develop Quality Management System components to meet GxP requirements
• Implement analytical tools and evaluation processes
• Establish robust regulatory interaction protocols

The Cultural Fit

• A highly motivated scientific professional driven by a genuine passion for discovery and patient impact.
• Confident but humble, willingness to learn and a sense of curiosity in your approach to scientific discovery and development
• Combines superior technical expertise with a collaborative, hands-on approach, characterized by scientific rigor and intellectual curiosity.
• Demonstrates exceptional analytical skills, interpersonal abilities, and a commitment to maintaining high-quality research standards.
• Actively engaging across multidisciplinary teams and external collaborations.

Requirements:

• PhD in immunology, pharmacology, or a related discipline
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sectors
• At least 5 years of comprehensive experience in translational sciences within the biopharmaceutical industry, with a focus on oncology, immuno-oncology, and protein/antibody therapies (such as IgG, ADCs, engagers, or NK/T cell therapies)
• Proven expertise in preclinical development, clinical pharmacology, or biomarker development
• Experience in PK-PD modelling, biomarker assay development, and conducting IND-enabling studies
• History of leading cross-functional translational projects from preclinical stages to clinical proof of concept
• A strong publication record is required

Expected salary

Location

Amsterdam, Noord-Holland

Job date

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 23:20:35 GMT

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