Principal Scientist - In vivo

Principal Scientist – In Vivo Research

Belgium, Ghent

The Role

We are seeking a Principal Scientist to provide scientific leadership across preclinical programmes. This role plays a critical part in bridging discovery and development, with responsibility for shaping in vivo strategy and delivering high-quality data to support key pipeline decisions.

You will act as a scientific authority within in vivo pharmacology, working closely with multidisciplinary teams across biology, DMPK, toxicology, and translational research.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, oversight, and interpretation of in vivo studies supporting target validation
• Provide senior scientific input across multiple preclinical programmes and therapeutic areas
• Drive study strategy and experimental design, ensuring scientific robustness and translational relevance
• Interpret complex in vivo datasets and translate findings into clear recommendations for project progression
• Ensure studies are conducted in line with Belgian and EU regulatory frameworks, ethical standards, and internal quality systems
• Contribute to study reports, internal reviews, and regulatory documentation
• Mentor and support scientists and in vivo specialists, promoting best practice and scientific development
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners, including CROs and academic collaborators

Your Background

• PhD (or equivalent experience) in Pharmacology, Biomedical Sciences, Immunology, Neuroscience, or a related discipline
• Significant experience in in vivo preclinical research
• Strong expertise in study design, and data interpretation
• Proven ability to operate at a principal or senior scientific level
• Solid understanding of ethical, regulatory, and welfare requirements governing animal research in Belgium and the EU
• Experience working in cross-functional, matrixed project environments