Vacancy
(Principal) Scientist Translational Research (M/F)
Company: Ablynx: www.ablynx.com
Department: Pharmacology - Pharmacodynamics
Reporting to/hierarchy: Section Head Pharmacology - Pharmacodynamics
Ablynx is focused on the discovery and development of Nanobodies®, a novel class of antibodyderived therapeutic proteins based on single-domain antibody fragments, for a range of serious lifethreatening human diseases. Ablynx is developing a portfolio of Nanobody®-based therapeutic
programs in a number of major disease areas, including inflammation, thrombosis, oncology and
Alzheimer's disease. The unique structure and stability of Nanobodies® has allowed Ablynx, and its
partners, to pursue targets that are typically difficult to reach with conventional antibodies.
The main responsibility of the Pharmacology department is the in vitro and in vivo characterization
of lead drug candidates and the translation of effects to the clinical situation. Clinical trials up to
proof of concept Ph II are supported by a newly built translational research team.
Function details: This expert will strengthen the Pharmacodynamics and Translational Research
team. He/she will support the characterization of lead compounds, including the development of
bio-assays for potency measurements, the assessment of the mode of action of the drug candidate,
the development and validation of relevant biomarker assays for (pre)-clinical studies and the
assessment of species cross reactivity. He/she will -in cooperation with other disciplines- propose
clinical dosing schemes based on the expected effects. He/she will make proposals for the
biomarker strategy to the clinical development department and draft the clinical biomarker plan.
Expectations for this role include:
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Guide to help setting, from biomarker’s point of view, the development strategy to go to the
next phase in drug development (up to and including clinical phase II).
Take the lead in drafting the clinical biomarker plan.
Resource and guide work of a team of (associate) scientists.
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Develop and validate biomarker assays for (pre)clinical programs.
Evaluate and implement new analytical technologies.
Keep abreast of new developments in the field of Translational Research and maintain
knowledge of competitor strategies.
Be an active member of internal core teams that guide our different internal programs.
Actively contribute to the definition of the target product profile.
Manage collaborative relationships with academic, industrial partners and internal parties.
As a key strategic advisor, ensure smooth transfer of the programs from preclinical to clinical
development and formulate sound translational strategies in collaboration with Clinical partners.
Implement early biomarker plans and activities to ensure their successful implementation in
clinical trials for decision-making and to identify responsive patient populations.
Interact with project leaders and supervisor on a regular basis to synchronize the planned work
versus the time lines.
Write and review study reports and working protocols and contribute to regulatory documents
(IMPD, IB, CTA) as well as clinical trial study protocols.
Education and qualifications:
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MD or PhD in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology…
More than 5 years of relevant industrial experience preferably in inflammation, immunology,
autoimmunity or oncology.
Know, understand and be experienced in the drug development process.
Proven track record in and knowledge of biomarker development and validation.
Expertise in developing and validating biomarker assays.
Understand the world of (pre)clinical studies and complex literature.
Practical sense to bring the specialist science into a broader perspective.
Able to work in multidisciplinary development teams.
Personality and mentality:
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Excellent persuader.
Quality oriented and accurate.
Sense of initiative, flexible and creative.
Both team player with team spirit and able to work autonomously.
Driven by enthusiasm, commitment and dedication.
Excellent communication, organization and motivation skills are essential.
Sociable, ethical and trustworthy.
Languages: Fluent in English both oral and in writing.
Mobility/travel: +/- 10% of time.
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ScienceCo BVBA
Leuvenselaan 93/3
B-3300 Tienen
Tel. +32 2 400 75 10
Fax +32 2 400 75 13
Acknowledged office: VG.1345/B
info@scienceco.eu
www.scienceco.eu
"We help scientific brains to find each other!"
Job specificities:
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Full-time.
Permanent employment.
Location: Zwijnaarde (Ghent), Belgium
Starting date: ASAP.
Offer:
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Competitive remuneration package.
Entry level will depend upon proven track record of relevant experience.
Challenging job in a dynamic environment with state of the art equipment.
Involvement in all the different areas of the research.
Help for visa and working license can be discussed.
Help for house hunting can be discussed.
Available education/training: Possibilities for further education and training.
Career opportunities: Good career possibilities.
Interested?
You match the requested criteria for min. 90%?
Then send your application including publications and references to cv@scienceco.eu,
mentioning reference BE-R05KJ
You have questions? Contact us, we are eager to help you! Tel.: +32 2 400 75 12
Page 3 of 3
ScienceCo BVBA
Leuvenselaan 93/3
B-3300 Tienen
Tel. +32 2 400 75 10
Fax +32 2 400 75 13
Acknowledged office: VG.1345/B
info@scienceco.eu
www.scienceco.eu