Director of In Vivo Pharmacology
The Director of In Vivo Pharmacology will lead and expand in vivo research capabilities within the Research & Early Development team at Legend Biotech's Philadelphia, PA location. This role focuses on advancing the company's cell and gene therapy pipeline by overseeing preclinical pharmacology studies to assess the efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of action of engineered cell or gene therapies. The position is pivotal in transitioning novel CAR-T candidates from discovery through IND-enabling studies into early clinical development.
Key responsibilities include directing the strategic execution of in vivo pharmacology studies supporting cell or gene therapy programs. The role involves designing, developing, and validating in vivo models—such as xenograft, syngeneic, and orthotopic—to evaluate CAR-T efficacy, persistence, trafficking, and toxicity. The Director will oversee in vivo study execution both in-house and at CROs, ensuring scientific rigor and compliance with regulatory standards. Collaboration with discovery, translational biology, immunology, and clinical teams is essential to integrate pharmacodynamic, biomarker, and mechanism-of-action data. Additionally, the role includes interpreting and presenting data to internal stakeholders and external partners, authoring key sections of regulatory documents, managing and mentoring a team of scientists and research associates, and implementing emerging in vivo technologies to enhance study throughput and translational relevance.
Candidates must possess a PhD or DVM in Pharmacology, Immunology, or a related field, with over eight years of relevant industry experience. Deep expertise in in vivo models of cancer and/or immunotherapy is required, with a preference for experience in CAR-T, TCR, or other cell or gene therapies. A strong understanding of tumor immunology, immune cell trafficking, cytokine biology, and T cell kinetics is essential. The role demands a proven track record of leading IND-enabling pharmacology studies, hands-on experience with mouse handling, tumor implantation, IV/SC dosing, and tissue processing. Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and external CRO collaborations, along with excellent communication, leadership, mentoring, and project management skills, are also required.
The position offers a competitive base salary ranging from $187,989 to $246,735 annually. Additional compensation includes performance-based bonuses and/or equity for eligible roles. Benefits encompass medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan with immediate full vesting of company match, eight weeks of paid parental leave after three months of employment, and a comprehensive paid time off policy. Additional voluntary benefits include flexible spending and health savings accounts, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, legal assistance, and supplemental plans such as pet, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance. The company also provides commuter benefits, family planning and care resources, well-being initiatives, and peer-to-peer recognition programs.
Legend Biotech fosters a collaborative and innovative work environment dedicated to developing advanced cell therapies for life-threatening diseases. The company values scientific excellence and offers opportunities for professional growth and development. Joining Legend Biotech means contributing to cutting-edge research with the potential to make a significant impact on patients worldwide.