Head of Preclinical Oncology Development

Barrington James Limited; Massachusetts; Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Barrington James Limited is partnering with a dynamic oncology biotechnology company seeking a Head of Preclinical Development to lead strategy and execution across discovery through clinical development.

Based in the Boston/Cambridge area with hybrid work, the role requires PhD-level leadership, expertise in translational pharmacology, in vivo models, regulatory readiness, and cross-functional team-building across Discovery, Regulatory, CMC and Clinical groups.

Qualifications

• PhD in Oncology, Cancer Biology, Pharmacology, Immunology or related field.
• Extensive experience leading preclinical oncology programmes in biotech/pharma.
• Strong expertise in oncology models, translational pharmacology and drug development strategy.
• Proven track record progressing candidates from discovery to IND-enabling studies.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and external collaborations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead the preclinical development strategy for oncology programmes.
• Design, execute and interpret preclinical studies including in vivo models, pharmacology, efficacy and safety.
• Provide leadership across tumour biology, mechanism of action and translational approaches.
• Drive candidate selection, IND-enabling studies and regulatory milestones.
• Build and mentor high-performing preclinical and translational science teams.
• Manage external CROs and academic collaborations.
• Support portfolio prioritisation and cross-functional decision-making.
• Collaborate with Discovery, Clinical, Regulatory and CMC teams.

Skills

Preclinical leadership

Oncology models

IND-enabling studies

Translational pharmacology

Regulatory strategy

Team leadership

Education

PhD in Oncology

Job description

Barrington James Limited is partnering with a dynamic oncology biotechnology company seeking a Head of Preclinical Development to lead strategy and execution across discovery through clinical development.

Based in the Boston/Cambridge area with hybrid work, the role requires PhD-level leadership, expertise in translational pharmacology, in vivo models, regulatory readiness, and cross-functional team-building across Discovery, Regulatory, CMC and Clinical groups.