Distinguished Scientist – EIR, Intrépide

Sanofi • Cambridge, MA

21h

About The Position

Join the engine of Sanofi’s mission — where deep immunoscience meets bold, AI-powered research. In R&D, you’ll drive breakthroughs that could turn the impossible into possible for millions. Sanofi Intrépide Research Laboratories is a global initiative that identifies, incubates, validates, and advances science, technology, and business opportunities critical to Sanofi's pipeline ambitions. Operating in both China and the US, we combine a Core Team providing strategic, scientific, and operational leadership with Research Laboratories executing breakthrough projects. We are seeking an exceptional Entrepreneur in Residence with deep expertise in Neurobiology and Medicinal Chemistry (though not limited to these areas) to help build Intrépide Research Laboratories (IRLs) and infrastructure for Intrépide US. This pioneering role will leverage China's vibrant innovation ecosystem and accelerating capabilities in AI, digital health, and novel therapeutic modalities to identify and advance breakthrough opportunities in neuroscience and beyond. Working collaboratively with Research functions, you will bridge Sanofi's global R&D network and China's rapidly evolving biotech landscape, establishing two-way innovation flow that accelerates breakthrough therapies for patients worldwide. About Sanofi: We’re an R&D-driven, AI-powered biopharma company committed to improving people’s lives and delivering compelling growth. Our deep understanding of the immune system – and innovative pipeline – enables us to invent medicines and vaccines that treat and protect millions of people around the world. Together, we chase the miracles of science to improve people’s lives.

Requirements

• PhD + minimum 10 years relevant drug discovery experience
• Biotech experience is a must
• Outstanding track record of publications, presentations, and patents as leading authors
• Proven significant project impact as key scientific contributor
• Recognized expertise in biology (immunology, neurobiology or oncology) and small synthetic molecules or biologics discovery
• Experience applying high-level scientific judgment in complex situations
• Ability to influence scientific judgment across cultural contexts
• Successful experience leading multidisciplinary and multicultural teams
• Track record of bridging Eastern and Western scientific approaches
• Experience working independently while gathering input from diverse stakeholders
• Experience working with China CROs
• This role requires an entrepreneurial mindset, scientific rigor, and the ability to bridge Chinese and global research communities.

Responsibilities

• As an Entrepreneur in Residence, you will identify and evaluate breakthrough opportunities combining scientific excellence with strategic business value to accelerate Sanofi's portfolio expansion through Intrépide Research Lab(s).
• Apply biology (Neuroscience preferred) and medicinal chemistry expertise to discover and advance novel therapeutic targets, MoA and drug opportunities that are white space or adjacent to current Therapeutic Area portfolio focus
• Play a key role in establishing infrastructure and processes with startup discipline
• Leverage strategic partnership across the innovation ecosystem—academia, biotech, research institutes, and CROs
• Partner with Therapeutic Areas and Intrépide China team to advance technology platforms and/or assets (e.g. PCs), contributing to Sanofi R&D pipeline expansion
• Represent Sanofi Intrépide through publications, patents, and key conferences
• Mentor scientists across cultural and geographic boundaries, leading diverse multicultural teams
• Influence scientific decision-making at therapeutic area and platform levels
• Guide professional development of Research Lab members
• Develop comprehensive plans to achieve scientific and business objectives within Intrépide
• Forecast and manage trench budget investment of IRL(s), including cross-border projects as fit
• Build constructive relationships across organizational and cultural boundaries for successful IRL execution

Benefits

• Bring the miracles of science to life alongside a supportive, future-focused team.
• Discover endless opportunities to grow your talent and drive your career, whether it’s through a promotion or a lateral move, at home or internationally.
• Enjoy a thoughtful, well-crafted rewards package that recognizes your contribution and amplifies your impact.
• Take good care of yourself and your family, with a wide range of health and wellbeing benefits including high-quality healthcare, prevention and wellness programs, and at least 14 weeks’ gender-neutral parental leave.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree