Head of Pipeline Biology

Job DescriptionWe are seeking a visionary and hands-on Head of Pipeline Biology to lead the biological development of our novel bispecific TCR therapeutics targeting AML and solid tumours. This is a pivotal role in our journey to bring first-in-class, first-in-human molecules to the clinic.You will work closely with the Chief Scientific Officer and Protein Science leadership to guide the non-clinical cellular testing of candidate molecules, enabling the selection of a lead candidate for full preclinical development. Your work will directly inform regulatory submissions and shape our clinical strategy.This role requires strong team leadership, scientific understanding, and expertise in immunology, cellular biology, and molecular biology including lentiviral transduction. In this role you will be accountable for:Determining HLA-restriction, for the successful and appropriate in vitro characterisation of binding specificity of candidate and T cell activation and T cell mediated killing of bi-specific TCR molecules to cells.in vivo characterization bi-specific TCR molecules would be desirable.Key Responsibilities Scientific Leadership & StrategyLead the preclinical biology group, overseeing in vitro and in vivo testing of bispecific TCR molecules.Design and implement assays to assess binding specificity, T cell activation, and T cell-mediated killing.Develop testing strategies to evaluate efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action.Collaborate with Protein Engineering to optimize candidate molecules.Regulatory & Translational ImpactDrive the generation of data packages to support regulatory submissions (MHRA, FDA, EMA).Contribute to Clinical Trial Authorisation (CTA) and IND/NDA applications.Engage with regulatory bodies and external experts to ensure alignment with global standards.Team & Operational LeadershipManage and mentor a growing team of cell biologists (initially 3–4 scientists).Oversee budgets, timelines, and reporting for biological testing activities.Present findings to the Senior Leadership Team and external stakeholders. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence.Experience and Qualifications PhD in Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or related field.5+ years of biotech/pharma experience in R&D, ideally in TCR therapeutics, bispecifics, or immuno-oncology.Direct hands-on laboratory experience in testing the safety and efficacy of soluble high-affinity TCR molecules.Proven track record in non-clinical development and regulatory engagement.Experience contributing to successful regulatory filings and clinical trial enablement.Technical ExpertiseDeep knowledge of T cell biology, cellular assays, and molecular techniques including cell binding assays, T cell activation, and T cell killing both in vitro and in vivo.Hands-on experience with lentiviral transduction, cloning, and cell line engineering, particularly in generating isogenic cell lines using lentiviral transduction, growing a large array of cell lines, human organoids, and primary human cells.Skilled in multi-colour flow cytometry, EliSpot, luminometry, and fluorescence-based assays.Leadership & CommunicationProven leadership skills, including successful development and implementation of scientific strategies, and ability to work with other leaders and support staff.Excellent communication skills, with ability to present complex data to senior stakeholders.Experience in cross-functional collaboration and strategic decision- making.Experience in managing, mentoring, developing, and motivating teams of scientists.Experience in managing budgets, agreeing and delivering timelines of work, and writing reports.Ability to present work to the Senior Leadership Team.Ability to publish and present work done by your team and in partnership with other team members. Familiarity with requirements for development and submission of preclinical data packages for a Clinical Trial Authorisation to MHRA and a New Drug Application to the FDA and EMA.Why JoinBe at the forefront of next-generation immunotherapies.Lead a high-impact team in a mission-driven, science-first environment.Shape the future of TCR bispecifics and contribute to life-saving innovations.