Job Description

We are looking for a founding-level Project Leader to help build the scientific and strategic basis of a new biotech spin-off. The exciting project brings together artificial intelligence, chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology, supported by our state-of-the-art equipment and resources, to identify a lead compound with real potential to reach the clinic. The goal is to develop a first-in-class therapeutic candidate able to correct dysfunctional cellular reprogramming in metabolic disorders..

Metabolic Diseases & Drug Discovery Spin-off

Signal Transduction & Metabolism Laboratory – ULB Faculty of Medicine

Within the framework of the Win4SpinOff program (Walloon Region), the Signal Transduction & Metabolism Laboratory (ULB Faculty of Medicine) is launching a high-potential biotech spin-off aimed at developing novel therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders, based on cutting-edge academic research with strong translational potential.

The objective is to translate validated academic research into a structured biotech company embedded in the Walloon innovation ecosystem.

The project is currently in its pre-funding phase and requires the co-development of a formal application to the Walloon Region. Upon approval of the application, the position will be fully funded for an initial period of two years, with the possibility of extension.

Scientific Background :

The project is based on the development of small-molecule modulators targeting specific signaling pathways involved in metabolic regulation.

Preliminary research has demonstrated:

·       Significant regulation of lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis

·       Anti-obesity and anti-cancer effects in preclinical models

·       Favorable initial safety and toxicology results

The project brings together AI, chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology, supported by state-of-the-art tools and platforms, to identify a lead compound with real potential to reach the clinic. 

Position: Project Leader

The selected candidate will act as a key driver in both the scientific and strategic development of the spin-off.

Responsibilities :

1. Grant and Funding Application (Win4SpinOff)

Co-lead the drafting of the official funding application to the Walloon Region

Develop the valorization strategy and business case

Contribute to the market analysis and development roadmap

2. Scientific and Technological Leadership

Coordinate and oversee preclinical validation and proof-of-concept studies

Define the drug discovery and development pipeline

Ensure scientific rigor and translational alignment

3. Business and Company Building

Participate in defining the business model and strategic positioning

Contribute to the 5-year development plan of the future company

Support structuring of the spin-off entity

4. Funding and Ecosystem Development

Identify and engage with potential funding sources (public and private)

Contribute to interactions with investors, incubators, and industry partners

Support preparation of future seed and early financing rounds

Candidate Profile :

·       PhD in Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacy, or related discipline

·       Strong background in metabolism, cellular signaling, or drug discovery

·       Demonstrated interest in translational research or biotech development

·       Entrepreneurial mindset with strong autonomy and execution capacity

·       Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to non-specialist audiences

Previous exposure to industry, biotech startups, or technology transfer activities is considered an advantage.

Positioning and Opportunity :

This position represents a founding-level role in a biotech spin-off under development. The candidate will be directly involved in shaping both the scientific direction and the strategic foundation of the company.

The project is supported by institutional funding mechanisms and embedded in a structured regional innovation program, offering access to academic expertise, business coaching, and investor networks.

Application Process :

Selection based on CV and motivation statement

Joint preparation of the Win4SpinOff funding application

Submission to the Walloon Region

Upon approval, formal hiring and project launch under full funding

Application Submission

Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and a concise motivation statement outlining their interest in biotech innovation and spin-off creation to: 

Esteban Gurzov : esteban.gurzov[at]ulb.be                   

Patrick Di stefano : patrick.di.stefano[at]ulb.be

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Requirements added by the job poster

• Authorized to work in Belgium

• Doctor of Philosophy