Project Lead – Target Validation and Drug Discovery (m/w/d)

WHO WE ARE

DISCO Pharmaceuticals is an emerging biotechnology company with operations in Cologne, Germany, and Schlieren, Switzerland. We leverage a proprietary mass spectrometry-based technology platform to decode the molecular architecture of the cancer cell surface. By integrating expertise in cell biology, biochemistry, and computational analytics, we identify functionally relevant protein communities and novel therapeutic targets. Our mission is to develop innovative therapies for diseases with high unmet medical need, including cancer, and to translate new biological insights into meaningful clinical applications.

POSITION

We are looking for a talented and experienced Research Scientist and Project Lead to expand our Discovery Team. The candidate will be supporting DISCO’s preclinical drug discovery efforts by working alongside highly skilled and motivated Research Scientists and Associates with the goal to validate novel targets and develop innovative T cell engagers/antibody drug conjugates.

The places of work are Cologne, Germany or Schlieren, Switzerland.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leading and driving preclinical drug discovery projects and scientific teams focused on the development of innovative antibody-based therapeutics, with overall responsibility for scientific strategy, efficient project execution, team performance and delivery of key milestones.
• Providing scientific and organizational leadership to multidisciplinary project teams, fostering a collaborative, high-performing environment while supporting the professional growth and development of team members.
• Strategic planning, coordination, and prioritization of research activities in alignment with project objectives, scientific priorities, and organizational goals.
• Close collaboration with scientific leadership and cross-functional stakeholders to ensure effective ressource allocation, project alignment, and successful progression of research programs.
• Working closely with interdisciplinary departments, including Computational Biology, Technology, and Operations, to advance innovative therapeutic approaches and support the company's scientific mission.
• Analyzing, interpreting, and presenting scientific data and project progress, providing clear recommendations to support strategic decision-making and portfolio development.
• Managing external research collaborations and outsourcing activities, including the selection, coordination, and scientific oversight of Contract Research Organizations (CROs).
• Monitoring scientific and technological developments in the field of antibody engineering, immune cell engagers, and antibody-drug conjugates to identify new opportunities and ensure scientific excellence.

YOUR PROFILE

Qualification

You hold a PhD in Immunology, Oncology, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline. In addition, you bring more than seven years of relevant industry experience in leading preclinical drug discovery programs, ideally focused on immune cell engagers and/or antibody-drug conjugates within a biotechnology or pharmaceutical environment. You are passionate about translating scientific innovation into therapeutic solutions and enjoy taking ownership in a dynamic, research-driven setting.

Experience

We expect competencies in the following areas:

• Proven track record in leading preclinical drug discovery programs, including target validation, lead identification, candidate optimization, and the development of immune cell engagers and/or antibody-drug conjugates, preferably within oncology.
• Extensive expertise in molecular and cellular biology methods relevant to therapeutic antibody development, including cell culture, flow cytometry, internalization and cytotoxicity assays, as well as the generation and characterization of cellular models.
• Experience in designing and overseeing preclinical in vivo studies, including collaboration with external CROs and the evaluation of efficacy studies, is considered a strong advantage.
• Solid understanding of antibody engineering technologies and the principles underlying the development of immune cell engagers and antibody-drug conjugates.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to manage cross-functional and matrix project teams in a collaborative and results-oriented manner.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• A proactive, strategic, and solution-oriented mindset, combined with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced research environment, manage multiple priorities, and drive projects forward with a high degree of ownership and scientific rigor.

WE OFFER

• Long-term career prospects through a permanent employment contract with a future-oriented company
• Competitive compensation and attractive employment conditions
• 30 days of annual leave as well as a work environment that supports professional development
• Exciting responsibilities at the interface of research and laboratory practice, offering a high degree of autonomy and opportunities to make an impact
• A collaborative, international corporate culture with flat hierarchies, short decision-making processes, and regular team activities

CONTACT

Please address your application to Marcel Dammert. 

For data protection reasons, we can only accept applications via our online application tool. Any applications sent by email will be deleted immediately.