Principal Scientist, Translational Biomarkers

Principal Scientist, Translational Biomarkers (Metabolism) Join a leading biotech company bonding to discover, design, and develop innovative peptide-based medicines. As our new Principal Scientist you will have a central role in improving the understanding of our peptide-based drugs within metabolism and obesity. The position offers a unique opportunity to shape our application of biomarkers and elevate and improve data quality across preclinical research projects. Your new team The department of molecular pharmacology is a dynamic and social environment with a collaborative spirit and helpful colleagues, comprising 12 scientists and 8 laboratory technicians. We are organized into two teams, but we all work together across the department. We use a range of biochemical and cellular assays to support identification, optimization and understanding of our drug candidates. The open position is in our In vitro biology group, focused on cell based disease models and biomarker evaluation. Zealand Pharma is a dynamic organization with many opportunities to impact projects across all stages of the pipeline as well as your career and the future of Zealand Pharma. Your profile A collaborative and curious scientist who enjoys connecting disciplines and bringing clarity from complex datasets. Thrives in a dynamic environment, communicates clearly with diverse stakeholders, and is motivated by meaningful impact on patient‑relevant science. Comfortable driving translational discussions and elevating assay rigor and data quality. Key Responsibilities Develop and define our preclinical biomarker assay portfolio, by evaluating biomarker potential in collaboration with project groups Translate mechanism of action knowledge into testable pre‑clinical hypotheses, endpoints, and measurable success criteria Establish and validate biomarker assays in collaboration with technicians and CROs Provide guidance on biomarkers and in‑vitro pharmacology potency data to cross‑functional teams Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, ranging from pharmacology profiling, omics technologies, cell biology and in vivo pharmacology and communicate strategic recommendations to senior leadership and external partners. Collaborate with medical experts in translating biomarkers across discovery, nonclinical, and early clinical development Qualifications Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Biomarkers or a related field with at least 8 years of post Ph.D. experience Scientific background in metabolism or obesity Strong skills in cross‑functional collaboration and stakeholder communication Extensive experience with biomarker assay validation and quality Exceptional analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis Additionally, The Following Qualifications Will Be Considered An Advantage Expertise in handling and analyzing large datasets, such as proteomics, metabolomics or single cell sequencing data. Experience with CRO interactions Experience in developing in vitro/ex vivo disease models Expert knowledge within qPCR and RNA sequencing Let’s bond and be bold We have a unique culture, characterized by excellent teamwork and strong engagement across the organization. And we want you to help us strengthen this culture. Making bonds is at the core of everything we do. From discovering and developing the best new peptide drugs for patients, to engaging with our partners or connecting with each other. We bond through curiosity and playfulness as a team, allowing ourselves to challenge common thinking and drive future innovation. Join us and let’s bond and be bold. Interested in bonding with us? Then please apply no later than January 23, 2026 or as soon as possible. The applications will be reviewed as they come in. While a cover letter is not required, please include a few sentences in your CV explaining your motivation for applying. For further information, please contact Head of In‑vitro Biology, Gitte Lund Christensen at We are committed to an inclusive recruitment process and welcome applications from all job applicants. About Zealand Pharma A/S Zealand Pharma A/S (Nasdaq: ZEAL) is a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of peptide-based medicines. More than 10 drug candidates invented by Zealand Pharma have advanced into clinical development, of which two have reached the market and three candidates are in late‑stage development. The company has development partnerships with a number of pharma companies as well as commercial partnerships for its marketed products. Zealand Pharma was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, with a team in the U.S. For more information about Zealand Pharma's business and activities, please visit #J-18808-Ljbffr