Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

JR United Kingdom; York; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK startup is seeking an experienced Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead to steer the launch of an orphan-designated therapy in ophthalmology. This strategic role requires ABPI Final Signatory certification and offers the opportunity to shape medical governance and strategy in a lean, agile environment. The position supports early access initiatives and involves cross-functional collaboration ahead of the UK launch in 2026.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in Medical Affairs leadership.
• Experience with orphan drugs or rare diseases is a plus.
• Background in ophthalmology is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Medical & Scientific Affairs function for UK therapy launch.
• Shape the medical governance framework and drive scientific strategy.
• Support early access, governance, and scientific engagement.

Skills

Leadership

Medical Affairs

Strategic Planning

Education

ABPI Final Signatory certification

Job description

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Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup, york

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Client:

wax.

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Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

3

Posted:

10.06.2025

Expiry Date:

25.07.2025

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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 start-up 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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