ELRIG opens two Board of Director positions to shape the future of life sciences

Applications now open for: Early Career Professional (ECP) Workgroup Lead and Scientific Programme Director

As a not-for-profit, volunteer-led organisation connecting scientists, technologists, and innovators across academia, biotech, pharma, CROs, and technology providers, we are inviting applications for two exciting volunteer Board Director positions:

1.  Early Career Professional (ECP) Workgroup Lead
2.  Scientific Programme Director

Both roles offer the opportunity to play a central part in shaping the future of life sciences, advancing collaboration, and supporting ELRIG’s mission to accelerate scientific exchange and innovation in early-stage drug discovery and development.

Early Career Professional (ECP) Workgroup Lead – Board Director

Championing the next generation of scientists

The ECP Workgroup Lead will serve as the voice and advocate for early-career scientists and technologists within ELRIG. This Board-level role will guide ELRIG’s strategy for engaging students, postdocs, and new professionals, helping them to build skills, networks, and confidence within the life sciences community.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead and energise the Early Career Professional Workgroup, connecting people across academia, industry, and ELRIG events.
• Create opportunities to attract, support, and develop early-career scientists.
• Represent the ECP community on the ELRIG Board, helping shape strategic direction.
• Develop career-focused initiatives, mentoring schemes, and training programmes.
• Collaborate with universities, professional societies, and sponsors to expand engagement.

Ideal candidate:

• Passionate advocate for emerging scientists and technologists.
• Background in life sciences (academia, biotech, or pharma).
• Proven leadership in community-building, event organisation, or mentoring.
• Strong communicator with a collaborative mindset and established network.

Scientific Programme Director – Board Director

Leading scientific excellence and innovation in ELRIG’s events

The Scientific Programme Director will shape the scientific vision and direction of ELRIG’s conferences and symposia, ensuring the organisation continues to deliver inspiring, high-quality content for the global drug discovery community.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the Science Strategy Workgroup, overseeing scientific content across all ELRIG events.
• Collaborate with event Directors to build engaging, forward-thinking programmes.
• Identify and integrate emerging scientific trends — from AI in drug discovery to advanced cell models and novel therapeutic areas.
• Chair the Scientific Advisory Board, bringing together thought leaders to guide future themes.
• Partner with sponsors and collaborators to strengthen ELRIG’s scientific reach.
• Represent ELRIG within the wider life sciences community, sharing its mission and impact.

Ideal candidate:

• Recognised scientific leader from academia, biotech, or pharma.
• Deep understanding of the evolving drug discovery and translational research landscape.
• Experience curating scientific programmes or leading collaborative initiatives.
• Broad international network and commitment to open science and inclusivity.

Why join ELRIG’s board?

• Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of early-stage drug discovery.
• Connect and collaborate with leaders across the global life sciences ecosystem.
• Contribute to making science more accessible, inclusive, and impactful.
• Build valuable Non-Executive Director experience.
• Join a vibrant, supportive community of volunteers and ELRIG staff.

Commitment & how to apply

• Voluntary role (non-salaried) | Companies House Director position
• Term: 3–4 years
• Time commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month (virtual Board meetings, workgroup calls, and two in-person events annually)
• Location: Based in the UK or Europe (remote participation supported). Occasional travel required for in-person events representing ELRIG.

To apply, please submit a short statement of interest (max 500 words) explaining your motivation, relevant experience, and what you would bring to the role, along with a brief CV or LinkedIn profile.

📩 Email applications to: elrigchair@elrig.org
🕓 Deadline: December 19th, 2025