Senior Medical Science Liaison (Director Level) – Neuro-Oncology Biotech

Our client, a Research Triangle Park, NC biotech that is developing multiple medicines to treat potentially lethal diseases, primarily in the oncology and rare disease space, is building its MSL program and is actively recruiting for a highly knowledgeable, passionate and patient-focused candidate to join it Medical Affairs team.

The company has numerous products in development, including a new class of selective cancer therapies to treat various gliomas (both adult and pediatric), one of which is in Phase 3 trials (and has been granted Fast Track Designation by the FDA) as well as a Phase 2 Trial for the treatment of Neuroendocrine tumors.

The company is actively pursuing other opportunities (pre-clinical and clinical stage) to collaborate on:

• Precision oncology programs across solid tumors
• Neuro-oncology programs that select for genetically-defined tumors
• Novel mechanisms of action; either first-in-class or potentially best-in-class

The company is on a mission to develop medicines that meaningfully improve and extend the lives of patients facing deadly diseases, and building a top notch MSL team will be instrumental in its success.

This is an immediate need, and compensation package (including equity stake) will be generous.

Key Things to Note:

• These are field-based roles, and travel will be extensive.
• This Senior MSL will represent the company amongst scientific, medical and industry leaders.  We seek an exceptional communicator with strong scientific credentials.  Ph.D. or Pharm.D. is required.
• These are investigational stage assets, targeted at rare and/or orphan diseases.  We seek MSL candidates whose experience is in, and personal passion is for, developing life-changing therapies of impact.  Deep expertise in oncology will be critical.  Neuro-oncology is preferred.
• The focus of the role will be to:
  • initiate and engage with key opinion leaders, healthcare providers, and patient advocacy groups within the oncology and rare disease community on behalf of the company
  • foster collaborations with external researchers and institutions for clinical trials, real-world evidence studies, and other initiatives with an emphasis on clinical study execution

Eventually, the MSL team will contribute to pre-launch and launch efforts.

• The company offers a culture of innovation, collaboration and empowerment.  While well-funded and diversified, it has the vibe of a start-up in which all parties work together to achieve a shared mission. 
  • This MSL will work directly with the leaders of the company including the inventor of the drug (the CTO) and the Chief Medical Officer to advance the company’s mission. 
  • We seek candidates who thrive in a start-up setting and bring the “can-do” resolve needed to overcome any obstacles.
• Territories are still being defined.  Preference for those coming from Midwest or Southeast.  Northeast territory is already filled.

Targeted candidate will offer a Ph.D. or Pharm.D as well as 10+ years in clinical practice, research, or pharmaceutical sciences, including 4+ years as an MSL. Deep understanding of oncology, including up-to-date knowledge of research and treatment trends is assumed and required. Biotech/start-up experience and neuro-oncology are strongly preferred.

Other priorities include:

• Exceptional ability to communicate complex scientific information clearly and persuasively to a variety of audiences, including healthcare professionals, researchers, and internal teams.
• Proven experience in fostering quality and productive relationships with key opinion leaders, healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups and other key stakeholders.
• Deep understanding of regulatory requirements and ethical standards in medical affairs and clinical research.
• Knowledge of the pharmaceutical or biotech market landscape in oncology, including emerging trends and challenges.
• Commitment to patient-centric approaches, ensuring the voice and needs of patients are represented in medical and scientific discussions.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically in developing medical communication and education initiatives.
• Track record of impact, achievement and longevity in previous roles.

Finally, we seek a committed and self-directed candidate who brings a collaborative and mission-driven work style and is fully prepared to “roll up their sleeves” as needed to ensure company, colleague and patient needs are met.

Many more details are available.  Please forward resume or CV for prompt consideration.