Functional Genomics in Drug Discovery: Become part of this new era in medicine

Our client is a leading Global Pharmaceutical Company committed to driving innovative research to help people to do more, feel better and live longer.

With an outstanding history spanning 175 years they have always been at the forefront of novel and leading R&D, investing heavily in the identification, development and delivery of innovative solutions to improve the treatment of diseases and illnesses.

With a desire to continue to innovate and pioneer change they are investing heavily in the development of a significant and highly talented Functional Genomics (FxG) Group. Future R&D will focus on science relating to the immune system, the use of genetics and investments in advanced technologies. The Functional Genomics Group will lead many varied and innovative approaches to bring new medicines to patients globally.

Key to their success will be ensuring that they are at the forefront of the technological revolution, scaling advances in genomic engineering, tissue and cell science, computational biology and Omics technologies.

The FxG Global Head Translational In-Vitro Models will be accountable for developing, mentoring, building and leading a team of expert scientists, developing and characterising the most physiologically-relevant and disease-relevant in vitro models for target discovery and target validation in FxG.

The FxG Global Head Translational In-Vitro Models will lead a global team based in UK and USA with broad responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain state-of-the-art capabilities in cellular disease models, IPSCs and IPSC-derived in vitro models, primary human immune cells, complex in vitro models such as organoids and spheroids, and delivery and expression of genetic perturbagens across a range of cellular systems.
• Collaborate with FxG technology groups to develop and implement use of omics technologies to characterize cellular systems and assess mechanisms of action for chemical and genetic perturbations, image-based assays and single-cell biology strategies.
• Work closely with the Gene Editing and Genetic Screening (GEGS) team in FxG to perform phenotypic screens for new target discovery.
• Contribute to FxG strategic direction, resource planning and prioritization through participation as a member of the FxG Leadership Team.

The FxG Global Head Translational In-Vitro Models will be expected to bring:

• Outstanding scientific knowledge and credibility.
• A demonstrable track record of success within Translational in-vitro Model development and application.
• Extensive knowledge and experience within Functional Genomics.
• A broad understanding of the use of omics technologies to characterize in-vitro models.
• Exceptional and demonstrable leadership skills and capability.

The FxG Global Head Translational In-Vitro Models will be responsible for driving the science and strategy for developing, characterizing and using the most physiologically-relevant and disease-relevant in vitro models for target discovery and target validation in FxG. You should possess outstanding scientific, leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and influence others at a variety of levels and across multiple disciplines and environments.

This is a unique opportunity to join a leading Global Pharmaceutical Company as they undertake an unprecedented level of investment and activity in Functional Genomics Research to deliver upon their ambition to become the world’s most innovative, best performing and trusted healthcare company.

For further information or a discussion in complete confidence, please contact Dr Grant Coren, Pharma-Search Ltd – grant@pharma-search.co.uk, telephone: +44 (0) 1442 345 340.