Head of Translational Oncology

JOB SUMMARY

Iambic Therapeutics is seeking an exceptional scientific leader to serve as Head of Translational Oncology — a highly visible role at the intersection of discovery biology, clinical development, and AI/ML-driven drug development.

This role is intentionally broader and more senior than traditional translational biology leadership positions. In addition to leading classical translational science (biomarkers, MoA, resistance, combinations, patient selection), the Head of Translational Oncology will be accountable for operationalizing bidirectional learning between translational/clinical data and AI/ML models—turning data into predictive insight and insight back into experimental and clinical strategy.

This is a rare opportunity to build a next‑generation translational function within an AI-native biotech.

Lead Portfolio-Level Translational Strategy

• Serve as the overall translational sciences leader across one or more programs (e.g., HER2, CDK2/4, KIF
  18A) and, as the organization scales, across the full oncology portfolio.

• Integrate target biology, pharmacology, biomarker strategy, and AI-derived hypotheses into cohesive clinical development plans.

• Drive evidence‑based go/no‑go, indication prioritization, and development decisions.

• Partner closely with discovery, clinical, DMPK, toxicology, and AI/ML teams to align strategy from bench to bedside.

Define Biomarker & Patient Selection Strategy

• Lead discovery, validation, and deployment of pharmacodynamic, predictive, enrichment, and resistance biomarkers.

• Shape patient stratification strategies by integrating biological insight with AI‑driven predictions.

• Ensure development of fit‑for‑purpose assays and oversee transition to external labs and clinical deployment.

Mechanism of Action, Resistance & Combination Biology

• Direct MoA and translational studies across molecular, cellular, and in vivo systems with strong emphasis on human relevance.

• Identify and validate intrinsic and acquired resistance mechanisms.

• Develop rational combination strategies grounded in biology and computational insight.

AI/ML‑Enabled Translational & Clinical Prediction

• Lead the translational interface with Iambic’s Enchant platform and broader AI/ML capabilities.

• Operationalize predictive workflows to inform patient selection and molecular segmentation, indication prioritization, resistance risk, rational combination partners, efficacy, durability, safety, and dose selection.

• Build closed‑loop learning systems where translational and clinical data continuously refine predictive models and development strategy.

Build and Lead a High‑Impact Organization

• Establish and scale a high‑performing translational sciences team.

• Ensure scientific rigor, reproducibility, and strong data governance.

• Deliver clear, compelling translational data packages to executive leadership and governance forums.

• Mentor and develop scientific talent while fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.

• Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent advanced degree in cancer biology, molecular biology, pharmacology, computational biology, or a related discipline.
• Typically 12–20+ years of relevant experience in biotech or pharma, with progressive leadership responsibility.
• Demonstrated success advancing at least one oncology program into clinical development.
• Deep expertise in translational science, including biomarker strategy, MoA, resistance, and combination biology.
• Proven experience working with large, complex translational and/or clinical datasets, ideally incorporating bioinformatics and ML‑based approaches.
• Strong working knowledge of AI/ML concepts as applied to drug discovery and development; prior hands‑on modeling experience is a plus but not required.
• Track record of leading cross‑functional teams, influencing without authority, and partnering effectively with computational and clinical colleagues.
• Excellent scientific storytelling and communication skills, with the ability to frame evidence‑based narratives for senior and executive audiences.

This role represents a pivotal inflection point for Iambic: moving from generating translational data to predicting clinical…