Head of Preclinical Development, Cell Therapy Leader

Legend Biotech US; New Jersey; On-site; USD 294,483 - 386,511; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Eight weeks of parental leave

Job summary

Legend Biotech seeks a visionary scientist-leader to serve as Vice President, Head of Preclinical Development. You will lead the full preclinical program across in vitro pharmacology, in vivo pharmacology, and toxicology for all pipeline compounds globally, shaping strategy and standards.

You will build and guide a high-performing team, interact with regulatory partners, and drive IND-enabling efforts across CAR-T and other cell therapies in a fast-paced biotech environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in pharmacology, toxicology, immunology, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum 15 years in progressive preclinical drug development with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Deep expertise in at least two of in vitro pharmacology, in vivo pharmacology, or toxicology with working knowledge of the third.
• GLP toxicology experience including repeat-dose studies in NHP or rodents.
• Experience in cell therapy, gene therapy, or advanced therapy development.
• Successful IND submissions with leadership for nonclinical sections.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the preclinical development strategy across all programs globally.
• Serve as internal scientific authority for in vitro/in vivo pharmacology and toxicology.
• Lead preclinical science for modalities including CAR-T, ex vivo therapies, and gene-modified platforms.
• Integrate PK/PD/safety data into narratives guiding clinical development and dosing.
• Assess portfolio risks and support lifecycle management and partnerships.
• Own IND preclinical components and oversee regulatory summaries and study tabulations.
• Build and develop a high-performing preclinical team and CRO partnerships.
• Foster a culture of scientific excellence and regulatory integrity.

Skills

Leadership

Preclinical

IND experience

CRO management

Team mentoring

Regulatory knowledge

Education

PhD in pharmacology/toxicology

Job description

Legend Biotech seeks a visionary scientist-leader to serve as Vice President, Head of Preclinical Development. You will lead the full preclinical program across in vitro pharmacology, in vivo pharmacology, and toxicology for all pipeline compounds globally, shaping strategy and standards.

You will build and guide a high-performing team, interact with regulatory partners, and drive IND-enabling efforts across CAR-T and other cell therapies in a fast-paced biotech environment.