Principal Research Scientist II, Immunology Discovery Research

AbbVie•Worcester, MA

About The Position

AbbVie’s Immunology Discovery Research organization seeks an impactful scientific leader to manage pioneering research in Rheumatology. This role centers around strong people leadership—mentoring, growing, and developing a diverse scientific team of both junior and senior scientists (5+ direct reports)—and driving high-level drug discovery from target identification through preclinical development and first-in-human studies. The Principal Research Scientist II will lead a team of Discovery scientists in the Rheumatology team to champion in vitro and in vivo pharmacology, including strategic PKPD assessment, to guide the characterization and optimization of new therapeutics. In addition to a robust immunology background, candidates will leverage deep expertise steering cross-functional, matrixed teams and collaborative external partnerships to advance innovative, patient-centric discovery programs. The individual will: Provide scientific guidance and set direction for assay development, risk management, and research productivity. Ensure high-quality experimental design, incorporating early risk assessments and contingency planning. Foster cross-functional engagement across internal and external groups, including Chemistry, Biotherapeutics, Genetic Medicine, Precision Medicine, Clinical Development, and outside collaborations. Integrate emerging scientific trends and patient-derived data into strategies to identify new therapeutic targets, especially for underserved populations. Demonstrates exceptional ability to lead within a highly matrixed environment, effectively managing a team engaged across multiple programs and projects Demonstrates exceptional strategic thinking by developing and executing robust research and drug discovery strategies that align with organizational objectives and drive innovation in autoimmune disease research. Actively participate in shaping overall disease area and target identification strategies, impacting the research group’s long-term vision and priorities. Communicate research progress and scientific direction to executive stakeholders. Champion mentorship and inclusive team culture, upholding AbbVie’s corporate standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Science related field with 16 years of related work; Master’s Degree Science or PharmD with 14 years of related work; PhD in Science or related field with 8 years of related work experience.
At least 15 years of industrial drug discovery experience, including significant leadership of teams and projects.
Demonstrated experience managing and developing a team of at least 5 direct scientific reports across a range of career levels.
Track record of leading successful drug discovery initiatives from early research through preclinical and clinical transition.
Profound expertise in immunology and hands-on experience in both in vitro and in vivo pharmacology (including PKPD and assay development).
Collaborative and inclusive leadership style with strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to effectively interact with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Rheumatology experience is valued but not required; strong pharmacology and immunology backgrounds are essential.

Responsibilities

Lead, manage, and develop a high-performing research team (5+ direct reports), ensuring their professional growth across all career stages.
Oversee the planning and execution of in vitro and in vivo pharmacology studies, including the development and application of innovative assays and PKPD assessments.
Direct drug discovery programs, driving progression from early-stage conception to clinical candidate selection through strategic leadership and collaboration.
Devise and implement research strategies that address critical scientific objectives and adapt to new internal and external scientific trends.
Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and with external research partners to accelerate program advancement.
Develop and execute risk mitigation strategies and maintain study quality via robust experimental design, data analysis, and early contingency planning.
Promote knowledge sharing by authoring publications and presenting to cross-functional and executive leadership as well as external partners.
Mentor and train direct reports, fostering an environment that supports diversity, inclusion, and ongoing career development.