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.