Head of Immunobiology Therapeutic Innovation

Biogen•San Francisco, CA

10d

About The Position

Biogen is seeking an accomplished scientific leader to serve as Head of Immunobiology Therapeutic Innovation within the Immunology Research Unit (IRU). This newly created role will define and execute Biogen’s strategy for emerging therapeutic modalities in immunology, driving innovation from early discovery through early development. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in sourcing and advancing external innovation under Biogen’s Open Innovation model, which prioritizes leveraging the best ideas—internal or external—to accelerate breakthrough science. This includes identifying and assessing new opportunities, leading initial diligence activities, and supporting collaborations with academic institutions, biotech partners, and start-ups. Working closely with Biogen’s Business Development and Ventures teams, this leader will help bring forward cutting-edge platforms and modalities—such as immune cell engagers, protein homeostasis technologies, peptide macrocycles, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)—while expanding into emerging areas of biology, including stromal biology and tissue-immune interactions, applying the most effective modality strategies to address complex disease mechanisms.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Immunology or related field with 15+ years of industry or academic experience.
Proven track record of leading discovery and translational programs from early discovery into clinical development.
Strong understanding of immunobiology and emerging therapeutic modalities.
Experience managing scientific teams and driving portfolio strategy.
Demonstrated ability to lead external collaborations and diligence efforts.

Nice To Haves

Experience with both large and small molecule drug discovery and development.
Familiarity with autoimmune disease models and application to human disease biology.
Prior involvement in business development, external innovation, or venture activities.

Responsibilities

Define and execute a forward-looking strategy for modality innovation across autoimmune and inflammatory indications.
Drive programs from target validation through IND-enabling studies, ensuring robust mechanistic and disease-relevant data packages.
Partner with translational medicine, clinical development, and external collaborators to accelerate portfolio progression.
Serve as a scientific lead for evaluating external opportunities in emerging modalities and immunology platforms.
Collaborate with Biogen’s Business Development, External Innovation, and Ventures teams to identify, assess, and integrate partnerships, licensing, and investment opportunities.
Represent Biogen in external scientific forums, consortia, and strategic collaborations.
Build and lead a high-performing team focused on modality innovation and translational immunology.
Foster a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, and diversity.
Mentor and develop talent across levels.
Act as a subject matter expert in immunobiology and emerging therapeutic modalities, including: Next-generation immune cell engagers Novel bispecific antibodies Protein homeostasis platforms Peptide macrocycles Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)
Stay ahead of scientific trends and competitive landscape to inform strategic decisions.
Contribute to publications, presentations, and thought leadership in the field.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurances
Fitness & Wellness programs including a fitness reimbursement
Short- and Long-Term Disability insurance
A minimum of 15 days of paid vacation and an additional end-of-year shutdown time off (Dec 26-Dec 31)
Up to 12 company paid holidays + 3 paid days off for Personal Significance
80 hours of sick time per calendar year
Paid Maternity and Parental Leave benefit
401(k) program participation with company matched contributions
Employee stock purchase plan
Tuition reimbursement of up to $10,000 per calendar year
Employee Resource Groups participation