Head of Translational Biology

A unique opportunity to join a pioneering biotech start-up revolutionising oral macrocycle drug discovery

Backed by leading life sciences investors such as Novo Holdings and Forbion, Orbis is empowered to invest in groundbreaking technologies like the field-leading oral macrocycle design and development platform, nGen. Orbis Medicines operates at the intersection of science and technology, integrating cutting-edge tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to accelerate the drug discovery process.

With established facilities and highly skilled professionals in Lausanne, Switzerland, Orbis Medicines is establishing discovery capabilities at a new Copenhagen site. The site is expected to house a team of 15 experienced professionals, bringing the total workforce to 30, including the Lausanne site.

As Head of Translational Biology at Orbis Medicines, you will report directly to the CDO. You will be responsible for creating the vision and scientific strategy for the Translational Biology department, which focuses on inflammatory diseases. You will also be accountable for creating a link to the Screening Biology area, ensuring seamless collaboration and transfer of activities.

Your main tasks are:

• Build a team of experts in cell biology, biomarkers, and assay development with a strong focus on execution.
• Key driver of target selection.
• Establish advanced in vitro screening and validation assays used to validate hit compounds.
• Establish translational in vitro assays for drug discovery projects, guiding the discovery of nCycles from Advanced hits to Development Candidates.
• Establish, together with the DMPK department, the translation and PK/PD understanding, enabling dose-to-man predictions.
• Setting criteria for successful drug discovery projects (Target Candidate Profile).

Your qualifications include a PhD in a relevant scientific field. Ideally, you have 7-10 years of industry Experience, where you have gained significant experience developing and implementing novel in vitro Assays, primary cell assays, and a proven track record of delivering Development Candidates. Finally, you have excellent knowledge of the drug discovery process and small molecule/peptide projects in early discovery.

As a person, you are a great visionary with the capabilities to inspire, motivate, and coach your professional surroundings. You are used to navigating in an entrepreneurial start-up environment, and possess natural leadership skills. 

Orbis Medicines offers a unique opening to join a growing start-up and opportunities to grow in an innovative, collaborative, and passionate environment that will pioneer a new era for oral macrocycle drug discovery.

Travelling: Limited.

Domicile: Orbis Medicines’ facility in Copenhagen.           

At Unique Human Capital, we are committed to promoting diversity and including all perspectives. Thus, we encourage all qualified candidates to apply for the position. All applications must be in English and are treated confidentially.

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