Translational Medicine/ Biomarker Lead

Candel Therapeutics•Needham, MA

4d•$217,000 - $235,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking an accomplished scientific leader in Translational Immunology to drive the strategic vision and cross-functional execution of our clinical biomarker programs. This is a critical leadership role ideal for a candidate with deep expertise in cancer immunology, immunology, translational science, and biomarker development, coupled with the ability to integrate complex biological and clinical datasets to inform key program decisions. As Head of Translational Medicine, you will be a central figure in advancing both early- and late-stage clinical programs, including pivotal contributions to a Biologics License Application (BLA) for our lead immunotherapy candidate.

Requirements

PhD in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field, or MD with relevant post-doctoral training.
5+ years of experience in translational science, ideally within oncology or immuno-oncology programs.
Strong track record of contributing to and leading oncology clinical trials; experience with regulatory submissions and filings preferred.
Deep expertise in biomarker development, assay platforms, and integration of translational endpoints into clinical trial designs.
Working knowledge of GLP, GCP, and regulatory standards relevant to biomarker and clinical trial execution.
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex scientific projects in biotech or pharma settings.
Excellent communication, scientific presentation, and strategic thinking skills.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency with bioinformatics tools and data visualization platforms for biomarker data analysis.
Experience managing biomarker-driven immuno-oncology trials, including immune monitoring and pharmacodynamics.
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement scientific strategies for analyses across clinical and preclinical studies.
Provide expert guidance on emerging developments in immunology and oncology to inform target selection and mechanism-of-action insights.
Lead cross-functional governance initiatives and external collaborations to support regulatory strategy and clinical development goals.
Design and oversee execution of bio-sampling and biomarker strategies to identify mechanisms of response and resistance.
Integrate exploratory endpoints and novel assay technologies into clinical trial designs.
Analyze and interpret complex biomarker and clinical pharmacology data to inform patient selection and trial design.
Contribute to the development of integrated clinical pharmacology packages and high-quality clinical protocols and regulatory submissions.
Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders across Clinical Development, Research, Clinical Operations, QA and Regulatory Affairs
Engage and manage external partners, academic collaborators, and CROs to enable timely and innovative translational research.
Participate in scientific due diligence, regulatory meetings, and interactions as needed.