Job Introduction

Executive Director / Senior Director, In Vivo Pharmacology

Location: Flexible / Global

Pharmaron is a global CRO helping pharma and biotech companies bring new therapies to life. With over 20,000 employees worldwide across sites in the UK, US and China, we support drug discovery through to clinical development with fully integrated, high‑quality scientific services.

We’re proud of the impact we make—supporting hundreds of discovery programs, CMC projects, and clinical trials each year across all phases. Our teams contribute to breakthroughs spanning small molecules, biologics, and gene and cell therapies, working with more than 3,000 global partners.

We are now seeking an experienced and highly motivated In Vivo Pharmacology Leader to join our Global Drug Discovery & Development team. In this senior scientific role, you will provide leadership across multidisciplinary drug discovery programs, shaping strategy, enabling rapid decision-making, and collaborating closely with internal teams and external partners. You will thrive in a highly collaborative environment, demonstrating strong scientific judgement, innovation, and the ability to influence key stakeholders.

This is an exciting opportunity for a scientific leader passionate about driving impactful in vivo pharmacology strategies and contributing to the discovery of next‑generation therapies.

At Pharmaron we offer:

• Vibrant and dynamic environment – join a fast‑growing, highly specialised organisation operating at the forefront of global drug R&D.
• Opportunities for growth and development – our rapid expansion means you can learn, grow, and advance quickly.
• A supportive team culture – we work together, support each other, and deliver excellence as a team.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

• Provide scientific leadership and expert guidance in in vivo pharmacology for small‑molecule drug discovery programs.
• Develop efficient experimental strategies and ensure rapid execution to support clear Go/No-Go decision-making.
• Collaborate with in vitro biology, DMPK, and pharmacology teams to design rigorous and impactful in vivo experiments.
• Develop innovative scientific solutions and troubleshoot complex technical challenges.
• Align closely with partner organisations, ensuring agreed scientific approaches and program objectives are met.
• Present program strategies, data and progress to internal teams, external partners, and senior management.
• Stay abreast of scientific advances, emerging technologies, and new methodologies to strengthen program design.
• Contribute to enhancing Pharmaron’s in vivo capabilities, supporting adoption of new platforms, models and technologies.
• Support the evaluation and initiation of new project opportunities in collaboration with global partners.

Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biology, or related life sciences discipline with substantial industry experience.
• Extensive experience leading in vivo pharmacology teams within pharmaceutical or biotechnology R&D.
• Demonstrated success advancing small‑molecule discovery programs from early discovery to development.
• Proven track record serving as a Pharmacology Project Leader or equivalent within multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience supporting programs that have progressed into clinical trials is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of animal models and robust in vivo experimental design.
• Familiarity with DMPK, in vitro biology, and broader drug discovery workflows is an advantage.
• Strong scientific track record (publications, presentations, book chapters).
• Excellent communication skills and ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly and persuasively.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• A collaborative, innovative, and solution‑oriented mindset.

Our Company

We are a dynamic, fast‑growing CRO known for scientific excellence, integrity, and partnership. Our teams support some of the world’s leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies, helping solve complex scientific challenges across the drug discovery and development continuum.

We offer a competitive salary, an excellent benefits package, and a modern working environment across our global R&D sites. We are committed to supporting your professional growth through training, development, and meaningful career opportunities.

Why Should You Apply?

• An opportunity to make a real scientific impact in a highly innovative environment.
• A chance to shape and influence global discovery programs.
• Work in a team that supports, collaborates, and strives for excellence.
• Build and grow your career within a world‑class drug discovery organisation.