Senior Director of DMPK

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of DMPK to establish and lead Ailux’s Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics capability. Reporting to the VP, Head of In Vivo Bioscience, the role will lead translational and quantitative pharmacology strategies across Ailux’s respiratory and immunology pipeline, enabling rapid, data-driven progression from discovery through early clinical development for novel biologics, bispecifics and peptide therapeutics.

Working at the interface of computational design, translational biology and preclinical development, you will ensure DMPK considerations are embedded early and translated into clear programme recommendations from hit identification through clinical entry. The role offers the opportunity to shape translational strategy and quantitative decision-making across a next-generation respiratory and immunology pipeline spanning biologics, multi-specifics and peptide therapeutics.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategy

Build and lead Ailux’s DMPK and translational pharmacology capability, defining scientific strategy, operating model, external partnerships and long-term functional vision
Recruit, develop and inspire a high-performing, multidisciplinary team spanning in vitro, in vivo, computational and translational DMPK sciences
Provide clear, data-driven and risk-balanced recommendations to influence candidate selection, optimisation and clinical progression decisions

Scientific Excellence

Design, oversee and interpret DMPK and translational PK/PD studies supporting discovery through IND-enabling development
Develop integrated quantitative pharmacology strategies combining internal and published datasets to support human dose prediction, exposure–response understanding, target engagement and therapeutic index optimisation
Lead modelling and simulation activities (including PK/PD, PBPK and translational modelling) to inform first-in-human dose selection, regimen optimisation and clinical study design
Define DMPK and bioanalytical strategies for complex therapeutic modalities including engineered biologics, multi-specific antibodies, peptides and long-acting delivery approaches
Ensure DMPK considerations are embedded early within discovery programmes to enable rapid, data-driven decision-making across the portfolio

AI and Platform Integration

Partner with computational scientists to generate high-quality translational datasets that refine predictive models and improve decision-making across discovery programmes
Apply rigorous scientific judgement to ensure computational outputs are biologically and translationally meaningful

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work closely with biology, chemistry, translational and CMC colleagues to align on integrated programme plans and key risks
Provide DMPK leadership input to regulatory strategy and documentation (e.g., IND/CTA packages, briefing books and responses)
Select, manage and oversee external partners/CROs, ensuring scientific quality, timelines and budget alignment
Work closely with clinical pharmacology, translational medicine and regulatory colleagues to support successful transition into early clinical development

Qualifications, Education and Experience

PhD (or equivalent experience) in Pharmacokinetics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biology, Chemistry or a related discipline
Significant industry experience in DMPK/ADME with progressive leadership responsibility
Demonstrated track record of enabling candidate progression into clinical development, including clear decision-making at key milestones

Technical Expertise

Deep expertise in ADME, PK/PD, modelling and simulation approaches (including PBPK and translational modelling), with demonstrated experience integrating internal and published datasets to support human dose prediction, candidate progression, and clinical translation
Experience supporting complex modalities including multi-specific antibodies, engineered biologics, peptides and long-acting delivery approaches, with understanding of TMDD, immunogenicity risk, and translational PK challenges
Working knowledge of translational science, biomarkers and exposure–response strategies

Leadership Experience

Demonstrated ability to influence portfolio strategy and decision-making within highly matrixed, multidisciplinary environments
Comfortable operating in a fast-paced and evolving biotech environment with high levels of scientific ownership and accountability
Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-impact teams
Interest in AI-driven drug discovery and data-centric approaches