Our HTGF Portfolio of startups offers excellent opportunities and is always hiring talented people.
Munich, Germany
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.
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
>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
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.