Lead Medical Science Liaison - Oncology

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Medical Science Liaison to cover Cape Town, Western Cape. The role acts as the scientific interface with KOLs, investigators, and healthcare professionals in oncology, disseminating complex data and identifying collaboration opportunities.

The ideal candidate will hold an advanced degree (MD/PhD/PharmD or equivalent) with 7+ years in pharma/biotech, including 5+ years as an MSL.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a scientific or medical discipline.
• Minimum 7 years pharma/biotech experience; 5+ years in an MSL role.
• Deep oncology knowledge and KOL network.
• Strong presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to travel extensively within the Cape Town region and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain relationships with KOLs, investigators, and healthcare providers in oncology.
• Deliver scientific and clinical information on products and pipeline.
• Facilitate investigator-initiated studies and support trial recruitment.
• Provide feedback to R&D on clinical trials and scientific strategy.
• Present data at advisory boards, symposia, and meetings.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and company policies.

Skills

KOL engagement

Scientific communication

Advisory board presentation

Cross-functional collaboration

Travel readiness

Education

MD/PhD/PharmD or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global biopharmaceutical company at the forefront of cancer research, is seeking an accomplished and strategic Lead Medical Science Liaison (MSL) to cover the vibrant region of Cape Town, Western Cape . This pivotal role serves as the key scientific and medical interface between our client and leading healthcare professionals, researchers, and key opinion leaders (KOLs) in the field of oncology. The Lead MSL will be responsible for disseminating complex scientific information, fostering collaborative research initiatives, and providing valuable insights into the evolving treatment landscape. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge oncology therapies and shape the future of patient care in South Africa . This role requires extensive travel within the territory, making it a field-based position.

Key Responsibilities

Establish and maintain strong, credible relationships with KOLs, investigators, and healthcare providers in the oncology therapeutic area. Deliver accurate and comprehensive scientific and clinical information on our client's products and pipeline. Facilitate investigator-initiated studies and support clinical trial recruitment. Gather insights into the clinical practice, unmet medical needs, and research trends from KOLs. Respond to unsolicited medical inquiries from healthcare professionals in a timely and accurate manner. Present scientific data at advisory boards, symposia, and other medical meetings. Collaborate closely with internal medical affairs, clinical development, and commercial teams. Provide feedback to R&D and clinical teams on clinical trial design and scientific strategy. Ensure all activities are conducted in compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and ethical standards. Serve as a subject matter expert for the oncology portfolio within the assigned territory.

Requirements

Advanced degree (MD, PhD, PharmD, or equivalent) in a relevant scientific or medical discipline. Minimum of 7 years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, with at least 5 years in a Medical Science Liaison role. Proven expertise and deep understanding of the oncology therapeutic area, including current treatment guidelines and emerging research. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with KOLs and healthcare professionals. Exceptional presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills. Strong scientific acumen and the ability to interpret and present complex clinical data. Excellent understanding of regulatory and compliance requirements within the pharmaceutical industry. Ability to travel extensively within the Cape Town and surrounding regions, and occasionally nationally/internationally. Proficiency in data analysis and reporting. Self-motivated, results-oriented, and capable of working independently in a field-based role.

Benefits

Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent. This position offers an attractive base salary, a generous bonus structure, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and ongoing professional development opportunities. You will be part of a highly respected global organization with a strong commitment to innovation and patient advocacy. Opportunities for international collaboration and travel to scientific conferences are also provided.