Head of Preclinical Research

Head of Preclinical Research 

We are working with an innovative and growing biotech in Cambridge seeking an experienced Preclinical Manager to join their scientific team.

You will oversee a team of scientists, provide scientific and technical direction, and remain closely involved in the laboratory. You will lead the design and execution of in vivo studies, interpret data and work closely with senior leadership to help shape programme strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee a team of preclinical/in vivo scientists.
• Manage, mentor and develop team members and oversee workloads and priorities.
• Design, execute and interpret in vivo preclinical studies.
• Take ownership of studies from experimental design through to data interpretation.
• Use preclinical data to influence programme direction and decision-making.
• Remain hands-on with in vivo research and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across pharmacology, biology, DMPK and related functions.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior scientific leadership.
• Help develop and scale the company's preclinical capabilities.
• Ensure research meets appropriate scientific, ethical and regulatory standards.

About You

• PhD or equivalent in pharmacology, biology, toxicology or a related discipline.
• Strong hands-on in vivo/preclinical experience.
• Proven experience designing and running in vivo studies.
• Previous experience managing or overseeing a scientific team is essential.
• Experience mentoring and developing scientists.
• Strong scientific judgement and data interpretation skills.
• Experience taking ownership of preclinical programmes or studies.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Comfortable working autonomously in a fast-paced biotech environment.

This is an opportunity to combine hands-on science, team leadership and programme ownership within a growing biotech.