Head of Metabolism Disease

This is a senior leadership role with direct visibility to the CSO. You will be responsible for building and directing the Metabolism Disease research unit within GBR. You will define the scientific strategy and portfolio for biologics and peptide therapeutics targeting obesity, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), and other metabolic disorders. You will lead a core team of 6–8 scientists (with potential for expansion), drive programs from target identification to PCC nomination, and ensure seamless transition into clinical development. This role requires a strong track record in both large-molecule biologics and peptide drug discovery, with demonstrated success in advancing candidates to the clinic.

---

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Scientific Leadership

· Define and execute the long-term research strategy for the metabolism disease portfolio, aligning with corporate goals and client needs, with direct input to the CSO and executive leadership.

· Identify and validate novel targets with strong translational potential; champion innovative modalities including monoclonal antibodies, bispecifics, fusion proteins, peptides (cyclized, conjugated, or modified) , and novel scaffolds.

· Stay at the forefront of metabolic disease biology and therapeutic trends; integrate emerging science into the discovery platform.

Program & Portfolio Management

· Oversee multiple discovery programs concurrently, ensuring timely delivery of key milestones (hit identification, lead optimization, candidate selection).

· Lead the nomination of Preclinical Candidates (PCC) for both biologic and peptide assets, with a clear path to IND-enabling studies.

· Collaborate closely with CMC, toxicology, and clinical development teams to advance molecules into first‑in‑human trials.

Team Leadership & Talent Development

· Directly manage and mentor a team of 6–8 PhD and MS‑level scientists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

· Recruit, retain, and develop top talent; build a high‑performing, diverse team capable of tackling complex metabolic challenges.

· Provide coaching and career development guidance to team members.

External Engagement & Business Development

· Represent the department in client meetings, due diligence, and scientific conferences; present program updates to internal governance committees and external partners.

· Contribute to business development by identifying new collaboration opportunities and articulating our scientific capabilities.

· Build and maintain strong relationships with academic and clinical experts in the metabolic field.

---

Qualifications & Experience

Education:

· Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or a closely related field.

· Postdoctoral training in metabolic biology or a relevant discipline (strongly preferred).

Professional Experience:

· Minimum 12–15 years of overall industry experience in biologics or peptide drug discovery, with at least 8 years specifically in metabolic disease research (obesity, NAFLD/NASH, diabetes, or related areas).

· Proven track record of successfully progressing biologic and/or peptide candidates from discovery to PCC nomination and entry into clinical trials (IND/CTA) – this is a non‑negotiable requirement.

· Extensive hands‑on expertise in large‑molecule modalities: antibody engineering, bispecifics, Fc-fusion, peptide therapeutics (including cyclization, conjugation, formulation, and PK optimisation) , and novel scaffold platforms.

· Deep understanding of metabolic disease pathophysiology, target biology, and translational biomarkers.

· Strong knowledge of in vitro / in vivo pharmacology, developability assessment, and early CMC requirements for both biologics and peptides.

Leadership & Soft Skills:

· Demonstrated success in leading and growing a research team of at least 6–8 scientists, with evidence of effective people management, performance evaluation, and mentorship.

· Excellent strategic thinking and decision‑making abilities; ability to balance scientific rigor with business priorities.

· Outstanding communication and presentation skills in English (written and spoken); capable of influencing senior leadership (including the CSO) and external stakeholders.

· Collaborative, client‑oriented mindset with a track record of successful cross‑functional and cross‑site collaboration.

· Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, matrixed environment and adapt to changing priorities.