R&D Project Leader – Cancer Cell Vulnerabilities

About the role

Join Servier Monde’s Oncology team at the Paris‑Saclay site as an R&D Project Leader, shaping the discovery of next‑generation cancer cell vulnerability therapies from concept to preclinical candidate nomination.

Key responsibilities

• Lead oncology discovery programs from target identification through preclinical candidate nomination, overseeing strategy, timelines and quality.
• Define scientific and translational strategy, including mechanism of action, clinical hypotheses and patient stratification.
• Chair the cross‑functional Core Team, coordinating biology, chemistry, DMPK, biomarkers and IP to ensure project coherence.
• Drive Go/No‑Go decisions, risk assessments and governance processes.
• Design mechanistic and pharmacology studies that support clinical relevance.
• Mentor junior scientists and foster a culture of scientific excellence.

Required profile

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Cancer Biology, Cell/Molecular Biology, Pharmacology or a related discipline.
• 7‑10+ years of experience in oncology small‑molecule drug discovery within pharma or biotech.
• Proven track record of leading cross‑functional discovery programs to preclinical candidate nomination.
• Strong understanding of tumor biology, cancer vulnerabilities and translational research.
• Excellent communication, influence and collaboration skills in matrix organizations.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

Required skills

• AI‑enabled research tools
• Target validation
• Preclinical development
• Small‑molecule drug discovery

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead innovative oncology programs at a leading international pharma.
• Access to cutting‑edge technologies, including AI‑enabled approaches.
• Collaborative, multidisciplinary matrix environment.