Project Leader - Oncology Drug Discovery (Small Molecules)

Project Leader - Oncology Drug Discovery (Small Molecules)

Servier

Gif-sur-Yvette, France

We are looking for a Project Leader in Oncology Drug Discovery to drive innovative small molecule programs from early concept to Preclinical Candidate (PCC) nomination and clinical POC, at the interface of discovery, translational science, and development.

Your Mission

As Project Leader, you are accountable for the scientific direction, execution, and value creation of oncology discovery programs, ensuring alignment with Therapeutic Area and R&D strategy and enabling a smooth transition to development.

Key Responsibilities

Project & Scientific Leadership in research and preclinical development

• Lead oncology target and drug discovery programs from target identification through PCC nomination, with accountability for project strategy, scientific excellence, timelines, and quality of execution.
• Lead preclinical pharmacology strategy to support PCC-to-IND activities and early clinical development
• Ensure strong patient relevance through translational hypotheses, and competitive positioning.

Cross-Functional Team Leadership & Governance

• Ability to lead and contribute to a cross-functional Core Team (biology, medicinal chemistry, in vitro/in vivo pharmacology, DMPK, translational sciences, biomarkers, clinical pharmacology, CMC, IP).
• Act as the scientific integrator and dotted-line leader, fostering collaboration, accountability, and transparent communication.

Decision-Making & Risk Management

• Drive objective, data-driven decision-making, including Go/No-Go recommendations within the governance framework.
• Anticipate scientific and strategic risks, define mitigation plans, and escalate when appropriate.

External Innovation & Pipeline Strategy

• Contribute to scientific strategy, due diligence, and evaluation of external opportunities (in-licensing, partnerships, collaborations).
• Represent the project in interactions with academic, biotech, and industrial partners when relevant.

People & Culture

• Mentor and develop junior scientists and project team members.
• Promote a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, collaboration, and speed, leveraging emerging technologies including AI and digital tools where relevant.

Profile & Experience

• PhD (or equivalent) in Cancer Biology, Cell or Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or related field.
• 7–10+ years of experience in oncology small molecule drug discovery in pharma or biotech.
• Proven track record of leading cross-functional discovery programs from target discovery to PCC nomination.
• Strong expertise in tumor biology, oncogenic signaling pathways, translational research, and preclinical drug development.
• Demonstrated leadership in matrix environments with excellent communication, influence, and collaboration skills.
• Fluency in English; ability to operate effectively in an international environment.
• Strong interest or demonstrated experience in AI-enabled drug discovery is a plus.