Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

JR United Kingdom; Peterborough; Remote; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A rare disease startup seeks an Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead to oversee the UK launch of an innovative therapy in ophthalmology. This strategic role requires an experienced ABPI Final Signatory to shape governance, drive scientific strategy, and engage with stakeholders. The position is remote with occasional travel and is contract-based for approximately 6–9 months.

Qualifications

• Extensive Medical Affairs experience with proven leadership skills.
• Background in rare diseases or orphan drugs is advantageous.
• Familiarity with Ophthalmology and Compassionate Use Programs is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead Medical & Scientific Affairs for the UK launch of a new therapy.
• Shape the medical governance framework and drive scientific strategy.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure successful pre-launch phase.

Skills

Medical Affairs leadership

Governance

Scientific engagement

Education

ABPI Final Signatory certification

Job description

Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup, Peterborough

Client: wax.

Location: Peterborough, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Details

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 Requirements

• ABPI Final Signatory certification (essential)
• Strong Medical Affairs leadership experience
• Experience with rare diseases or orphan drugs is a plus
• Experience with Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programmes (nice to have)
• Ophthalmology background (nice to have)
• Fully remote with occasional travel

This is a startup environment, where you will shape the medical governance framework, drive scientific strategy, and collaborate cross-functionally to ensure a successful pre-launch phase within a lean, agile setup.

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

If interested, please contact us to arrange a confidential discussion.