Director Pathology

Novartis • San Diego, CA

18h • $204,400 - $379,600 • Hybrid

About The Position

We are looking for an accomplished toxicologic pathologist and inspiring people leader to define the future of pathology, investigative pathology, and biodistribution at our San Diego site. In this highly visible role, you will build capabilities that turn complex tissue and molecular data into clear, decisive narratives—shaping program strategy, elevating scientific standards, and enabling the next wave of transformative medicines. You will operate at the intersection of biology, technology, and decision-making—pioneering modern approaches (IHC/ISH, digital and spatial pathology, and integrated -omics) and translating insight into action with speed, rigor, and credibility.

Requirements

• DVM/MD (or equivalent) with formal pathology training and 15+ years in toxicologic pathology; or PhD and/or board certification (e.g., DACVP or equivalent) with 10+ years in toxicologic pathology.
• Demonstrated people leadership (coaching, talent development, performance management, and team building).
• Strong interpretive capability across toxicologic pathology, molecular pathology, and biodistribution, with a track record of translating findings into high-quality reports and regulatory documentation.
• Scientific credibility demonstrated through publications and/or presentations.
• Pharmaceutical/biotech industry experience across discovery through development (early phase to registration).

Nice To Haves

• Deep expertise in investigative pathology design and interpretation (IHC, ISH/RNAscope, digital pathology, spatial profiling).
• Ability to synthesize complex molecular datasets (RNA-seq, proteomics, spatial transcriptomics) in the context of tissue biology and pathology.
• Strong cross-functional influence and comfort operating in governance forums and matrixed teams.
• Commitment to scientific rigor, clear data storytelling, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Build and inspire multidisciplinary teams across pathology, investigative/molecular pathology, and biodistribution—creating a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, and talent growth.
• Establish next-generation scientific standards for non-GLP/GLP execution, reporting, and data integrity—ensuring consistent, decision-grade outputs that are inspection-ready.
• Serve as the site scientific authority for pathology and biodistribution: anticipate and define target-organ liabilities, build pathogenesis/MoA narratives, and translate uncertainty into clear, risk-based recommendations.
• Architect the investigative pathology strategy (IHC, ISH/RNAscope, digital and spatial pathology, and -omics) that connects tissue biology to target engagement, safety signals, and translational relevance.
• Shape portfolio decisions through governance and matrix leadership—bringing crisp, evidence-based storytelling that guides go/no-go decisions, mitigation strategies, and development plans.
• Lead innovation—accelerating insight generation and setting a vision for how pathology enables modern drug development.

Benefits

• health, life and disability benefits
• a 401(k) with company contribution and match
• a variety of other benefits
• a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director