Company Overview

An innovative and fast-growing biotech company at the forefront of synthetic biology is seeking a visionary Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) to lead their scientific programs. Our client is pioneering a proprietary platform for precise, site-specific protein conjugation, with applications in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other therapeutic modalities. With a strong focus on pharmacological performance, safety, and manufacturability, the company is poised to make a significant impact on the future of targeted therapies.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and lead the scientific strategy across discovery, platform development, and therapeutic programs

• Drive the advancement of lead assets through IND-enabling studies and into early clinical development

• Oversee the design and execution of in vivo pharmacology, toxicology, and PK/PD studies in line with regulatory standards

• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to expand the capabilities of the conjugation platform

• Work closely with executive leadership and project management to prioritize and de-risk the R&D pipeline

• Build and mentor a high-performing scientific team, fostering a culture of innovation and accountability

• Represent the company in high-level engagements with investors, partners, advisors, and regulatory bodies

• Shape the long-term scientific vision and contribute to defining the company’s R&D identity

• Manage a hybrid R&D infrastructure, balancing in-house capabilities with outsourced partnerships

• Collaborate with legal counsel to identify and secure intellectual property

Qualifications

• PhD, MD, or equivalent in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology)

• 8+ years’ experience in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry, including leadership roles

• Demonstrated success in building and leading scientific teams

• Hands-on experience advancing protein-based therapeutics—preferably ADCs or conjugates—into clinical development

• Deep understanding of translational science, IND-enabling studies, and regulatory processes

• Comfortable operating in a dynamic, early-stage biotech environment

• Strategic mindset with a strong drive for execution and scientific excellence

The Offer

• A mission-driven, science-first culture centered around a transformative platform technology

• Competitive executive compensation package, including equity participation

• Opportunity to shape and grow a company with disruptive potential in therapeutic development

• Direct influence on clinical strategy and long-term organizational success

• Hybrid working model with a base in a leading European biotech hub

Send us your CV below and let us know why you would be a great fit for the opportunity.