Associate Director | Translational Sciences

Job Title:
Associate Director | Translational Sciences
Location:
London, United Kingdom | Hybrid

Salary:
Competitive
Contract Type:
Permanent

Apsida Life Science is currently partnering with a well-funded, pre-clinical biotechnology company pioneering next-generation bispecific antibody-drug conjugates for cancer treatment. Backed by academic innovation and led by a seasoned scientific team, this start-up is driving the development of novel therapies with differentiated payloads and targeting capabilities.
With a modular high-throughput discovery platform and its lead programme preparing to enter first-in-human studies, this is a rare opportunity to join a science-first environment where your translational expertise can shape early clinical success.

Responsibilities:
Lead translational strategy across the bsADC pipeline using the “5 Rs” framework
Design and interpret studies on payload mechanisms, internalisation kinetics, and bystander effect
Oversee biomarker and PK/PD modelling and integration of DMPK, safety, and discovery data to support IND readiness
Contribute to early clinical development including patient selection, protocol input, and site strategy
Support KOL engagement, regulatory communications, and investor relations
Collaborate closely with discovery scientists, regulatory consultants, and external advisors

Qualifications:
PhD + 5 years or MSc/BSc + 10 years of experience in oncology, immunology, or pharmacology
Hands-on experience in ADC development, PK/PD, and translational study design
Proven track record in IND-enabling activities and early-phase clinical planning
Familiarity with biomarker development, payload optimisation, and tissue distribution models
Experience working in fast-paced biotech/start-up environments preferred
Strong communicator with cross-functional leadership experience

Position Highlights:
Shape the transition of a lead bsADC asset into first-in-human studies
Work directly with the CSO and executive team in a flat, collaborative organisation
Contribute to the strategic scientific direction across discovery, development, and clinical translation
Access equity options and full benefits as part of a fast-growing biotech team
Flexibility with hybrid working from a central London location
Be part of a science-led company tackling high-value oncology targets with novel modalities

If you are interested in learning more, please contact

Finley Lenihan

at Apsida Life Science:

Apsida Life Science is a specialist recruitment business based in London (UK), Redhill (UK), Boston (USA) & Pretoria (South Africa) that is dedicated to delivering the best talent to the Life Science industry. We believe there is a gap in the market for a cost effective, high quality and trusted recruitment service that puts the candidate journey at the heart of the recruitment process.