Lead Investigator- Assay Biology

Job Description

In this role, the successful candidate will provide strong scientific, operational and strategic leadership to multiple teams in Assay Biology unit, consisting of a group of between 40-50 scientists working on projects covering a range of therapeutic areas including oncology, inflammation, immuno-oncology, CNS and other indications. The candidate will become an integral part of the Discovery biology team, leading and supporting efforts for discovery projects, from hit-finding through to candidate selection. This role will also allow the successful applicant to develop plans and proposals for new projects in collaboration with external partners to implement them successfully.The Assay Biology group is responsible for developing assays and running screens supporting drug discovery activities such as (complex) cell-based assay development, HTS, target validation, mechanistic studies, translational assays for integrated research and standalone requests. In addition to line management, scientific supervision of the department and scientific project management, the successful candidate will also be involved in supporting business development activities to identify new clients and collaborations. The successful candidate will also work closely with other functional units in Biology and other departments like chemistry and safety.Key Responsibilities

• Manage, lead, motivate and develop a section of the scientific staff, including direct line management of project leads, in accordance with company directions and policies.
• Work collaboratively with partner teams, regularly present biology plans, data and achievements to external partners and internal project team members.
• Provide scientific and technical leadership to develop assays to address key project questions, such as mechanism of action and biological differentiation.
• Interpret results with thorough data analysis and review to drive projects forward and generate timely key decision-making data.
• Contribute to the management and performance of the Biology department through participation at relevant meetings and taking on selected responsibilities relevant to the role (e.g. efficiency programs, recruitment of staff, operations, facilities etc.). To be responsible for the leadership of project(s) ensuring effective integration across sites and disciplines and delivery on project objectives.
• Ensure a highest level of personal integrity, data integrity, compliance to quality and safety standards.
• Provide scientific support to business development activities aimed at writing proposals, addressing new requests in a timely manner and maintaining client satisfaction.
• Possess the knowledge and exposure to environment, health, and safety (EHS) practices
• Ensure the development of effective environment, health, and safety (EHS) practices for the company and oversee compliance with those practices
• Foster a corporate culture that promotes environment, health, and safety (EHS) mindset at workplace
• Follow environment, health, and safety (EHS) requirements at all times in the workplace ensuring individual and lab/plant safety
• Ensure environment, health, and safety (EHS) measures are imparted via training and adhered within the team

Educational Qualification:

• PhD in a relevant discipline and >15 years of relevant industry (CRO, Pharma or Biotech) experience. Proven track record preferably in a contract research environment would be desirable.

Technical/functional Skills:

• Proven track record in assay development, HTS and experience in one of the following areas- Oncology, Immunology, Fibrosis, CNS; Experience in Integrated Drug Discovery is an advantage.
• Experience in managing larger teams (>20 people) and/or departments (including management of resource and budget with the ability to work closely with support functions such as HR, finance, quality/regulatory and facilities);
• Ability to manage multiple projects and responsibilities at the same time. Experience in managing project teams regarding quality, timelines and cost. Effectively applies and enables state-of-the-art technologies and best practices to improve operational efficiency.

Behavioral Skills:

• Demonstrate strong people management skills, leading by example with a high level of emotional intelligence, and be willing to work collaboratively with other functional groups.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills. Ability to lead cross-functional teams and act as a true team player.
• Ability to discuss and debate data and project strategy with demanding clients and scientific experts.

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Keyskills :
consumer goodsanimal healthdata integritycontinuous improvement facilitationequal employment opportunitypeople management skillsproject teamsnew projectsdata analysis