Director, Pharmaceutical Sciences

Role Summary

Centessa Pharmaceuticals is seeking an experienced Director of Pharmaceutical Sciences to establish and lead a critical function supporting early-stage drug development. This role will provide technical expertise in physicochemical characterization, pre-formulation development, and dose formulation analysis across the portfolio. The Director will ensure robust analytical and formulation support from Candidate Selection through IND-enabling studies, bridging gaps between Non-Clinical and CMC teams to drive efficiency and compliance.

• Lead early-stage physicochemical characterization of drug candidates during Candidate Selection through IND stages.
• Oversee pre-formulation activities to support pharmacology, DMPK, and toxicology studies.
• Manage dose formulation analysis for non-clinical studies, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulatory expectations.
• Develop and implement processes for analytical verification of formulations, including stability and concentration checks for research and GLP/non-GLP toxicology studies.
• Collaborate closely with Non-Clinical and CMC teams to optimize resource allocation and ensure timely delivery of formulation and analytical data.
• Serve as subject matter expert for pharmaceutical sciences, advising on formulation strategies and analytical methodologies.
• Support regulatory submissions by providing high-quality data and addressing formulation-related questions.
• Build and maintain relationships with CDMOs and external partners to ensure best practices and scalability.

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or M.S.) in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in pharmaceutical development, with a focus on analytical and formulation sciences.
• Proven track record in early-stage drug development, including IND-enabling activities.
• Strong understanding of dose formulation analysis, stability studies, and regulatory requirements for non-clinical and clinical phases.
• Experience managing cross-functional teams and external vendors (CDMOs).
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or M.S.) in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or related discipline.

• Remote role based in the US with approximately 15% travel.