Project Leader - Oncology Drug Discovery (Small Molecules) (M/W)

Project Leader - Oncology Drug Discovery (Small Molecules) (M/W) Are you driven by the ambition to translate cutting-edge oncology science into transformative therapies for patients? We are looking for a

Project Leader in Oncology Drug Discovery

to drive innovative small molecule programs from

early concept

to Preclinical Candidate (PCC)nomination and

clinical POC , at the interface of discovery, translational science, and development.

Your Mission

As Project Leader, you are accountable for the

scientific direction, execution, and value creation

of oncology discovery programs, ensuring alignment with Therapeutic Area and R&D strategy and enabling a smooth transition to development.

Key Responsibilities

Project & Scientific Leadership in research and preclinical development

Lead

oncology target and drug discovery programs

from target identification through PCC nomination, with accountability for project strategy, scientific excellence, timelines, and quality of execution.

Lead

preclinical pharmacology strategy

to support PCC-to-IND activities and early clinical development

Ensure strong patient relevance through translational hypotheses, and competitive positioning.

Cross-Functional Team Leadership & Governance

Ability to lead and contribute to a

cross-functional Core Team

(biology, medicinal chemistry, in vitro/in vivo pharmacology, DMPK, translational sciences, biomarkers, clinical pharmacology, CMC, IP).

Act as the scientific integrator and dotted-line leader, fostering collaboration, accountability, and transparent communication.

Drive

objective, data-driven decision-making , including Go/No-Go recommendations within the governance framework.

Anticipate scientific and strategic risks, define mitigation plans, and elevate when appropriate.

External Innovation & Pipeline Strategy

Contribute to

scientific strategy, due diligence, and evaluation of external opportunities

(in-licensing, partnerships, collaborations).

Represent the project in interactions with academic, biotech, and industrial partners when relevant.

People & Culture

Mentor and develop junior scientists and project team members.

Promote a culture of

scientific excellence, innovation, collaboration, and speed , leveraging emerging technologies including

AI and digital tools

where relevant.

Profile & Experience

PhD (or equivalent) in Cancer Biology, Cell or Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or related field.

7–10+ years of experience

in oncology small molecule drug discovery in pharma or biotech.

Proven track record of

leading cross-functional discovery programs

from target discovery to PCC nomination.

Strong expertise in

tumor biology, oncogenic signaling pathways, translational research , and preclinical drug development.

Demonstrated leadership in matrix environments with excellent communication, influence, and collaboration skills.

Fluency in English; ability to operate effectively in an international environment.

Strong interest or demonstrated experience in

AI-enabled drug discovery

is a plus.

Why Join Us?

You will join an innovative R&D environment where

scientific ambition meets patient impact . This role offers the opportunity to:

Shape and lead high-value oncology assets.

Influence strategic decisions at the interface of discovery and development.

Collaborate with world-class experts in a culture that values trust, accountability, and innovation.

Contribute directly to therapies with the potential to change patients’ lives.

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