Chief Science Officer

JR United Kingdom; Slough; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotech startup is seeking a Chief Science Officer (CSO) to spearhead their R&D strategy. This role involves driving scientific innovation and overseeing the development of next-generation antibody therapeutics in a transformative environment. The CSO will play a crucial part in shaping the company's future and collaborating with various partners.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of R&D leadership experience in biotech/pharma or high-growth startups.
• Proven track record in antibody discovery/engineering and/or synthetic biology platform development.
• Experience leading teams through preclinical development stages.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the scientific and technical vision of the company.
• Lead all R&D activities, including antibody discovery and synthetic biology platform development.
• Build and manage multidisciplinary teams.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic Thinking

Entrepreneurial Mindset

Education

PhD in Synthetic Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or related discipline

Job description

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Location: London, UK (Hybrid options available)

Sector: Synthetic Biology / Antibody Therapeutics

About Us:

Our client is an ambitious biotech startup leveraging cutting-edge synthetic biology to engineer next-generation antibody therapeutics. Our mission is to unlock new modalities and accelerate the path from bench to bedside. Based in London’s vibrant biotech hub, we are backed by leading venture capital and strategic partners.

Position Overview:

They're seeking a visionary Chief Science Officer (CSO) to lead and expand the R&D strategy. As part of the executive leadership team, the CSO will drive scientific innovation, oversee pipeline development, and help shape the company’s long-term strategy in synthetic biology and antibody engineering. This is a rare opportunity to define science at a transformative stage company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute the scientific and technical vision of the company in alignment with business objectives.
• Lead all R&D activities, including antibody discovery, engineering, and synthetic biology platform development.
• Build and manage multidisciplinary teams spanning molecular biology, protein engineering, bioinformatics, and translational sciences.
• Oversee scientific operations, timelines, and budgets to ensure milestone delivery.
• Foster collaborations with academic institutions, CROs, technology partners, and biopharma companies.
• Represent the company at scientific conferences, with investors, and in regulatory discussions.
• Contribute to IP strategy, patent filings, and ensure protection of proprietary technologies.
• Serve as a mentor and thought leader within the organization, promoting a culture of scientific excellence and innovation.

Requirements:

• PhD in Synthetic Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of R&D leadership experience in biotech/pharma or high-growth startups.
• Proven track record in antibody discovery/engineering and/or synthetic biology platform development.
• Experience leading teams through preclinical development stages; IND experience a plus.
• Strong network in the biotech/academic ecosystem.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a willingness to be hands-on in a dynamic startup environment.
• Prior experience with venture-backed startups or scaling early-stage biotech.
• Familiarity with machine learning applications in antibody/synthetic biology design.
• Experience engaging with regulatory bodies (e.g., MHRA, EMA, FDA).

To apply please contact Sam Shinner at Discover International.