Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

JR United Kingdom; Derby; Remote; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity exists for an Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead in a rare disease startup focused on an upcoming ophthalmology therapy. This strategic role will guide medical governance and scientific engagement leading up to the UK launch in 2026. Candidates must possess ABPI Final Signatory certification and be adept in medical affairs leadership, with relevant experience in rare diseases considered beneficial.

Qualifications

• Experienced ABPI Final Signatory with strong leadership in medical affairs.
• Background in rare diseases or orphan drugs is a plus.
• Experience with Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programme preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead Medical & Scientific Affairs for UK launch of an orphan therapy.
• Shape medical governance framework and drive scientific strategy.
• Support early access and cross-functional partnerships.

Skills

Medical Affairs Leadership

Strategic Planning

Governance

Cross-functional Collaboration

Education

ABPI Final Signatory certification

Job description

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Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup, Derby

Client: wax.

Location: Derby, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

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EU work permit required: Yes

Job Views:

3

Posted:

10.06.2025

Expiry Date:

25.07.2025

Job Description:

Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead (Final Signatory)

Location: UK/Remote

Start: June/July 2025

Focus: Rare Disease | Ophthalmology

An exciting opportunity for an experienced ABPI Final Signatory to lead the Medical & Scientific Affairs function for the UK launch of a first-in-class orphan-designated therapy in ophthalmology.

This is a strategic interim role supporting early access, governance, and scientific engagement ahead of a landmark UK launch in 2026.

Key Points:

• ABPI Final Signatory certification (essential)
• Strong Medical Affairs leadership experience
• Rare disease or orphan drug exposure is a plus
• Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programme experience (nice to have)
• Ophthalmology background (nice to have)
• Fully remote with occasional travel

This is a startup situation, so you will be shaping the medical governance framework, driving scientific strategy, and partnering cross-functionally to ensure a successful pre-launch phase within a lean, agile setup.

Contract: Approximately 6–9 months, through to post-launch readiness.

If you are interested, please get in touch to arrange a confidential discussion.

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