Distinguished Scientist, Group Head Biochemistry

Sanofi•Cambridge, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This role provides strategic direction and scientific oversight for biochemistry activities supporting multiple drug discovery programs across diverse therapeutic areas. The Distinguished Scientist will serve as the primary biochemistry expert and thought leader, guiding project teams on assay design, target characterization, and mechanism of action studies. They will drive innovation in biochemical assay technologies and methodologies to enhance drug discovery capabilities and establish and maintain scientific standards and best practices for biochemistry within In Vitro Biology. The position involves representing biochemistry expertise in cross-functional project teams and governance committees, and utilizing AI/ML and robotics to accelerate drug discovery cycle times. Additionally, the role includes leading, mentoring, and developing a team of biochemists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and collaboration, and recruiting, retaining, and developing top scientific talent. The individual will conduct performance management, create an inclusive environment, and promote Sanofi's values. The role also oversees the design, development, and execution of biochemical assays, ensures timely delivery of high-quality data, collaborates with other disciplines, and troubleshoots complex biochemical challenges. External collaborations with academic institutions, biotechnology companies, and contract research organizations are also part of the responsibilities, along with presenting scientific findings and contributing to publications, patents, and external conferences.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Molecular Biology, or related scientific discipline
8 + years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical or biotechnology drug discovery industry
At least 5+ years of people management experience, including leading and developing scientific teams
Proven track record of contributions to successful drug discovery programs from early research through candidate selection
Deep expertise in biochemical assay development and characterization across multiple target classes (enzymes, protein-protein interactions, epigenetic targets, etc.)
Strong understanding of enzyme kinetics, binding thermodynamics, and structure-activity relationships
Hands-on experience with diverse biochemical techniques including fluorescence, luminescence, mass spectrometry, surface plasmon resonance, and other biophysical methods
Knowledge of assay automation, high-throughput screening, and data analysis methodologies
Expertise in the field of protein degradation or molecular glues (degraders-non degraders)
Understanding of drug discovery processes from target identification through clinical candidate nomination
Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing scientific teams
Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities
Strong communication skills with ability to influence and align diverse stakeholders
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast-paced environment
Collaborative mindset with experience working in matrix organizations

Nice To Haves

Experience with novel therapeutic modalities such as targeted protein degradation, molecular glues, covalent inhibitors, or allosteric modulators
Expertise in specific therapeutic areas of strategic importance to Sanofi (immunology, oncology, rare diseases, neuroscience)
Track record of scientific publications in high-impact peer-reviewed journals
Experience with regulatory submissions and interactions with health authorities
Familiarity with AI/ML applications in drug discovery and computational biochemistry
Previous experience in a Level 4+ leadership role within a pharmaceutical organization
Established network within the scientific community and industry

Responsibilities

Provide strategic direction and scientific oversight for biochemistry activities supporting multiple drug discovery programs across diverse therapeutic areas
Serve as the primary biochemistry expert and thought leader, guiding project teams on assay design, target characterization, and mechanism of action studies
Drive innovation in biochemical assay technologies and methodologies to enhance drug discovery capabilities
Establish and maintain scientific standards and best practices for biochemistry within In Vitro Biology
Represent biochemistry expertise in cross-functional project teams and governance committees
Use AI/ML and robotics to accelerate drug discovery cycle times
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of biochemists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and collaboration
Recruit, retain, and develop top scientific talent to build a world-class biochemistry organization
Conduct performance management, including goal setting, feedback, and career development for direct reports
Create an inclusive environment that encourages innovation, continuous learning, and professional growth
Promote Sanofi's values of Aim Higher, Act for Patients, Be Bold, and Lead Together within the team
Oversee the design, development, and execution of biochemical assays for target validation, hit identification, and lead optimization
Ensure timely delivery of high-quality biochemistry data to support project milestones and decision-making
Collaborate with medicinal chemistry, structural biology, pharmacology, and other disciplines to advance compounds through discovery stages
Troubleshoot complex biochemical challenges and provide innovative solutions to overcome technical obstacles
Evaluate and implement emerging technologies and platforms to enhance biochemistry capabilities
Partner effectively with internal stakeholders across Research, Development, and Global functions
Build and maintain external collaborations with academic institutions, biotechnology companies, and contract research organizations
Present scientific findings and strategic recommendations to senior leadership
Contribute to scientific publications, patents, and presentations at external conferences
Participate in scientific advisory boards and industry forums as a Sanofi representative