Fractional CSO/Advisor - mRNA biotech

Your new companyYou will be joining a breakthrough VC backed biotech who have recently raised a multi-million pound Seed funding round.They are pioneering novel treatments in the field of cancer immunoprevention and are currently developing a lead mRNA vaccine.As they go into the next stage of their growth they are looking for a highly experienced advisor to join them on a consultancy basis and help set out and drive their pathway to IND.Your new roleThis is a part-time consultancy role, working approximately 8 hours per week (with potential to increase this over time) that could run for 1-2 years and may lead to a permanent Board level - or similar - position within the company.You will be supporting the founding team, who have deep expertise within the mRNA and oncology vaccine space, as a fractional Advisor / Chief Technical Officer (CTO). A key part of the role will be liaising with the CSO and other scientific/senior advisors and is ideally suited for candidates who are looking to contribute on a flexible basis, with a long-term view and strategic influence within the company.Key Responsibilities will include:

• Supporting the CEO and CSO to design novel RNA vaccine products from first principles
• Identify potential new avenues for company R&D and new patent applications
• Advise on, design and implement - in conjunction with the company leadership - R&D plans for product development, covering early discovery through to preclinical / IND stage
• Identify - and design strategies to mitigate - both technical and commercial issues / roadblocks
• Help set target / candidate strategies and advise on issues such as vaccine formulation / adjuvants, etc
• Act as a technical advisor for IND submissions
• Liaise with partners / vendors who can support the company's mRNA vaccine production

What you'll need to succeed

• Candidates for this role should have an extensive track record / background in vaccinology, with a specialism in mRNA therapeutics and/or vaccines, gained from the biotech / pharma industry
• Strong knowledge of immunotherapy, ideally applied to oncology
• Track record of taking programmes through from discovery to IND, with a preference for RNA therapeutics / vaccines
• Detailed understanding of current trends and technologies in the RNA space
• Ability to mentor / support early biotech founders
• A good understanding of aspects affecting programme prioritisation, eg commercial practicalities and regulatory hurdles faced when gaining approval for a new therapeutic

What you'll get in returnThis is a fully remote role with potentially 1 day / month based in Cambridge.You'll have the ability to work with a breakthrough biotech who are looking to transform the oncology vaccine space.The role also pays a very generous hourly rate of c.£250-300/hour for 8 hours/week.What you need to do nowIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call on . If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

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