Director of Safety Pharmacology

Are you ready to lead innovative safety pharmacology strategies? We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Safety Pharmacology to join a team in Lyon. In this role, you will lead the design and execution of safety pharmacology strategies supporting a portfolio of oncology programs, including targeted therapies, immuno‑oncology agents, and combination treatments. You will work at the intersection of science and strategy, ensuring that novel cancer therapies are developed with a strong safety foundation.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and implement safety pharmacology strategies for oncology drug development programs
• Provide deep scientific expertise in cardiovascular, respiratory, and CNS risk assessment, with particular focus on oncology‑related safety liabilities (e.g., QT prolongation, cytokine release, off‑target effects)
• Design, oversee, and interpret non‑clinical safety studies to support regulatory submissions (IND, CTA, NDA)
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with oncology biology, toxicology, clinical development, and regulatory teams
• Manage and oversee CRO partnerships to ensure high‑quality and timely study delivery
• Build, mentor, and lead a high‑performing safety pharmacology team
• Act as a senior advisor on safety risks, benefit‑risk assessment, and mitigation strategies for oncology assets

What you'll need

• PhD, PharmD, or equivalent in pharmacology or a related discipline
• Significant experience in safety pharmacology within oncology drug development (pharma, biotech, or CRO)
• Strong understanding of global regulatory expectations (ICH S7A/S7B, oncology‑specific considerations)
• Demonstrated leadership and ability to influence cross‑functional teams
• Excellent communication and strategic thinking skills