Director of In Vivo Pharmacology
Company: Legend Biotech
Location: Philadelphia
Posted on: January 2, 2026
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Job Description:
Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to
treating, and one day curing, life-threatening diseases.
Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, we are developing advanced
cell therapies across a diverse array of technology platforms,
including autologous and allogenic chimeric antigen receptor
T-cell, T-cell receptor (TCR-T), and natural killer (NK) cell-based
immunotherapy. From our three R&D sites around the world, we
apply these innovative technologies to pursue the discovery of
safe, efficacious and cutting-edge therapeutics for patients
worldwide. Legend Biotech entered into a global collaboration
agreement with Janssen, one of the pharmaceutical companies of
Johnson & Johnson, to jointly develop and commercialize
ciltacabtagene autolecuel (cilta-cel). Our strategic partnership is
designed to combine the strengths and expertise of both companies
to advance the promise of an immunotherapy in the treatment of
multiple myeloma. Legend Biotech is seeking Director of In Vivo
Pharmacology as part of the Research & Early Development team based
in Philadelphia, PA. Role Overview We are seeking an experienced
and highly motivated Director of In Vivo Pharmacology to lead and
expand our in vivo research capabilities in support of our cell and
gene therapy pipeline. The successful candidate will be responsible
for designing and overseeing preclinical pharmacology studies to
evaluate the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action of
engineered cell or gene therapies in relevant in vivo models. This
leadership role will be instrumental in guiding the transition of
novel CAR-T candidates from discovery through IND-enabling studies
and into early clinical development. Key Responsibilities Lead the
strategic direction and execution of in vivo pharmacology studies
supporting cell or gene therapy development programs. Design,
develop, and validate in vivo models (e.g., xenograft, syngeneic,
orthotopic) to evaluate CAR-T efficacy, persistence, trafficking,
and toxicity. Oversee in vivo study execution in-house and at CROs,
ensuring scientific rigor, quality, and compliance with regulatory
standards. Work cross-functionally with discovery, translational
biology, immunology, and clinical teams to integrate
pharmacodynamic, biomarker, and mechanism-of-action data. Interpret
and present data to internal stakeholders, executive leadership,
and external collaborators or partners. Author key sections of
regulatory documents (e.g., INDs, Investigator’s Brochures, study
reports). Manage and mentor a team of scientists and research
associates. Evaluate and implement emerging in vivo technologies
and platforms to improve study throughput and translational
relevance. The candidate has authority and should have the ability
to make decisions on preclinical in vivo pharmacology strategies
Requirements PhD, DVM in Pharmacology, Immunology, or related
field, with 8 years of relevant industry experience. Deep expertise
in in vivo models of cancer and/or immunotherapy; experience with
CAR-T, TCR, or other cell or gene therapies highly preferred.
Strong understanding of tumor immunology, immune cell trafficking,
cytokine biology, and T cell kinetics. Proven track record of
leading IND-enabling pharmacology studies. Hands-on experience with
mouse handling, tumor implantation, IV/SC dosing, and tissue
processing is preferred. Demonstrated ability to lead
cross-functional teams and external CRO collaborations. Excellent
written and oral communication skills, with the ability to present
complex data to both technical and non-technical audiences. Strong
leadership, mentoring, and project management skills. Li-JK1
Li-Hybrid Benefits We are committed to creating a workplace where
employees can thrive - both professionally and personally. To
attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive industry, we
offer a best-in-class benefits package that supports well-being,
financial stability, and long-term career growth. Our offerings are
designed to meet the diverse needs of our team members and their
families, ensuring they feel valued and supported every step of the
way. Highlights include medical, dental, and vision insurance as
well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with company match that vest fully
on day one. Equity and stock options are available to employees in
eligible roles. We offer eight weeks of paid parental leave after
just three months of employment, and a paid time off policy that
includes vacation days, personal days, sick time, 11 company
holidays, and 3 floating holidays. Additional benefits include
flexible spending and health savings accounts, life and AD&D
insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, legal
assistance, and supplemental plans such as pet, critical illness,
accident, and hospital indemnity insurance. We also provide
commuter benefits, family planning and care resources, well-being
initiatives, and peer-to-peer recognition programs - demonstrating
our ongoing commitment to building a culture where our people feel
empowered, supported, and inspired to do their best work. Please
note: These benefits are offered exclusively to permanent
employees. Contract employees are not eligible for benefits through
Legend Biotech. EEO Statement It is the policy of Legend Biotech to
provide equal employment opportunities without regard to actual or
perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry,
citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy,
childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), gender
identity or gender expression (including transgender status),
sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran
status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected
characteristic under applicable federal, state or local laws or
ordinances. Employment is at-will and may be terminated at any time
with or without cause or notice by the employee or the company.
Legend may adjust base salary or other discretionary compensation
at any time based on individual, team, performance, or market
conditions. Legend Biotech maintains a drug-free workplace.
Keywords: Legend Biotech, Hoboken , Director of In Vivo Pharmacology, Science, Research & Development , Philadelphia, New Jersey
