SME Oncology, Director

WuXi AppTec; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 149,386 - 208,901; Full time

Job summary

WuXi AppTec is seeking a Director to join their US team, serving as the scientific bridge to clients. The role requires an advanced understanding of oncology and significant experience in vivo pharmacology. Responsibilities include client consultation, proposal preparation, and attendance at scientific events. Ideal candidates will have a PhD/MD and 10-12 years in oncology research. The position anticipates a salary range of $149,386 to $208,901, with opportunities for travel.

Qualifications

• 10-12 years of hands-on experience in oncology research and drug development.
• Fluent in English.
• Prior experience in a scientific advisory or technical support role within pharma or biotech.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the SME for vivo cancer pharmacology.
• Provide expert consultation on oncology services.
• Translate client requirements into actionable proposals.
• Prepare and deliver high-level scientific presentations.
• Attend relevant scientific conferences and industry events.

Skills

Subject matter expertise in tumor biology

Strong communication skills

Interpersonal and relationship-building skills

Organizational and time-management abilities

Education

PhD or MD in Oncology, Pharmacology, Life Sciences

Job description

We are looking for an accomplished In vivo oncology expert to join our US team as Director. This role serves as the scientific bridge between our US clients and WuXi Biology’s advanced technology platforms, which are mainly based in China. The successful candidate will provide deep scientific expertise to support business development activities, identify new opportunities through scientific discussions, and enhance client engagement by translating complex technical capabilities into tailored solutions.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for vivo cancer pharmacology, supporting the business development team in identifying and developing new business opportunities.
• Act as the primary scientific contact for US clients, understanding their research needs and providing expert consultation on oncology services.
• Regularly communicate and collaborate with domestic technology teams to maintain up-to-date knowledge of platform capabilities, project pipelines, and technical advancements.
• Translate client requirements into actionable proposals, aligning internal resources and technical solutions with client expectations.
• Support the preparation and delivery of high-level scientific presentations, proposals, and responses to RFPs.
• Participate in client meetings, technical discussions, ensuring accurate communication of scientific details and project feasibility.
• Provide scientific training to BD and join client-facing meetings.
• Attend and represent the company at relevant scientific conferences and industry events in US.
• Gather and relay market and client feedback to inform internal platform development and innovation.

Education and Experience

• PhD or MD in Oncology, Pharmacology, Life Sciences, or related discipline.
• Fluent in English.
• At least 10 - 12 years of hands‑on experience in oncology research and drug development, with substantial expertise in vivo pharmacology models.
• Prior experience in a scientific advisory, technical support, or client‑facing scientific role within a CRO, pharma, or biotech company.
• Deep understanding of the oncology drug discovery process, from target validation through preclinical development.
• Experience working in or with cross‑cultural teams, ideally with exposure to both US and Chinese/Asian R&D environments.

Knowledge, Skills, and Other

• Recognized subject matter expertise in tumor biology and in vivo oncology models.
• Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship‑building skills, with a collaborative and consultative approach.
• High degree of initiative, self‑motivation, and adaptability.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management abilities.
• Willingness to travel within US and occasionally to China for training and collaboration.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to work in an office environment with minimal noise conditions.
• Must be able to work in a lab setting with exposure to Animals/, biohazards, / Chemicals.
• Must not have animal allergies to applicable species in this facility.
• Must be able to wear appropriate PPE.
• Must be able to work in an environment with variable noise levels.
• Ability to stand/sit/walk for long periods of time.
• Ability to lift 10 lbs. routinely.
• Ability to crouch, bend, twist, and reach.
• Ability to push/pull 10 lbs. routinely/ often / occasionally.
• Clarity of Vision.
• Ability to identify and distinguish colors.
• Must be able to perform activities with repetitive motions.

Anticipated salary range: $149,386 to $208,901

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

This job description does not state or imply that the above are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Employees holding this position will be required to perform any other job‑related duties as requested by Management.