Head of Pharmacology (m/w/d)

At smartbax, we aim to introduce the next generation of antibiotics. Founded in 2021, we develop novel antibacterial compounds with extraordinary potency against multi-drug resistant bacteria and hijack bacterial pathways that no other drug has touched before. As a start-up in Munich’s vibrant biotech scene, we offer an environment where your work makes a real difference. Help us pioneer new therapies that will save lives.

We are looking for a Head of Pharmacology with proven expertise in preclinical antibiotic development to move our pipeline successfully to IND/CTA filing.

Your tasks

• Co-lead the DMTA cycle side-by-side with our Head of Medicinal Chemistry

• Coordinate DMPK/ADME, PK/PD and in vivo efficacy testing, including management and orchestration of corresponding CROs

• Prepare the preclinical safety and IND/CTA-enabling data package, including communication with regulators, and lay the scientific and strategic groundwork for subsequent clinical studies

• Evaluate, visualise and present data towards the team, shareholders and investors

• Support the management in fundraising and company representation

• Lead and guide the scientific team with your experience, define and delegate responsibilities, and foster the personal growth of each team member as well as the company as a whole

Your profile

• >10 years experience in industrial drug discovery and development at Director / Senior Director / Head / VP level, preferably also in startup environments

• Personally carried at least one small molecule from late lead optimization through IND/CTA filing

• Proven track record in the AMR field - antibacterial PK/PD fluency is a must

• Strong global network with CROs and regulators

• Direct experience in drug development against Enterobacterales / UTI and strong connections into the AMR non-dilutive ecosystem (CARB-X, GARDP) are a significant plus

• Fast and critical thinker, not hesitant to make decisions under time pressure and with imperfect data

• Self-organised, enjoys working in small teams

• Proficient in written and spoken English

We offer

• Purpose: Contribute to the fight against antimicrobial resistance, one of the greatest healthcare challenges of our time

• Freedom and agility: Flat hierarchy, fast decision making, and no unnecessary bureaucracy, allowing you to focus on things that really matter

• Shaping the company’s future: Core position with direct impact and strategic influence in a highly motivated and experienced team

• A workplace tailored to your needs: Flexible working hours, brand-new lab and office spaces, and the freedom to work from home when needed, including the option for a hybrid on-site/remote model

• An ecosystem designed for success: Join a cutting-edge biotech start-up in Munich with strong backing from venture capital and family offices across the pharma sector

Start: Q1 2027 | Location: Munich/Neuherberg (Life Science Factory at the Helmholtz Pioneer Campus)

Interested to join the smartbax team? We look forward to receiving your application with a short cover letter, CV and availability.