Head of Research

CK Group; Manchester; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing biotechnology company near Manchester seeks a Head of Research to lead the oncology program from final GLP tox through to first-in-human Phase I trials. The ideal candidate will have a strong life science background, proven project management skills, and experience with oncology, liposomes, or gene therapy. Responsibilities include managing CROs and stakeholders, CTA submissions, and protocol development. This role offers a competitive salary package ranging from £70,000 to £100,000.

Qualifications

• Experience coordinating or managing Phase I/II trials (CRO, biotech or NHS R&D).
• Familiar with GxP, ICH, and MHRA processes.

Responsibilities

• Drive oncology programme from final GLP tox through to first-in-human trials.
• Compile and submit CTA/IND, manage agency correspondence.
• Build and maintain integrated project plan for various work-streams.

Skills

Project leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Vendor & CRO management

Knowledge of oncology

Experience with CTA/IND submission

Education

Degree qualified / PhD (preferred)

Job description

Head of Research

CK Group are recruiting for a Head of Research to join a growing early‑stage Biotechnology company based near Manchester on a permanent basis. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced scientific leader with a proven life science background in early drug discovery and driving projects into First‑in‑Human / clinics.

The Role

This is a key operational role, where you will be responsible for driving our clients oncology programme from final GLP tox through to a first‑in‑human Phase I trial.

You will be the main point of contact and take ownership for

coordinating CROs, stakeholders, vendors, and regulators to drive this exciting project to clinic.

Salary: £70,000 - £100,000

Responsibilities

• Project leadership – build and maintain the integrated project plan for GLP tox, CMC, regulatory and clinical work‑streams.
• Compile and submit CTA/IND, ethics track RFIs, manage agency correspondence (MHRA, FDA, EMA).
• Vendor & CRO management.
• Support protocol development, investigator brochure, site selection.
• Stakeholder engagement and management.

Your Background

• Degree qualified / PhD (preferred) with working knowledge of oncology, liposomes or gene therapy.
• Proven and successful Project Manager with wealth of experience coordinating or managing Phase I/II trials (CRO, biotech or NHS R&D).
• Experience with CTA or IND submission and tracking.
• Familiar with GxP, ICH, and MHRA processes.