Principal Scientist, Muscle and Neuromuscular Disorders

Biogen•Cambridge, MA

13d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist to join Biogen’s Neurology Research Unit and drive the development of therapeutics for neuromuscular disorders. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in muscle biology, strong scientific leadership, and the ability to manage and prioritize multiple programs in a highly collaborative, matrixed environment. Excellent communication, scientific rigor, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.

Requirements

PhD with 5+ years of experience in drug discovery, muscle biology, physiology, or a related field. Alternatively, Bachelor’s degree with 10+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry or academic experience; or Master’s degree with 8+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry or academic experience.
Deep expertise in muscle biology and translational research assays.
Hands‑on experience with in vivo muscle function measurements, including evoked force, treadmill running, and other functional assessments.
Strong background in assay development and drug discovery research.
Demonstrated track record of publishing in high‑impact journals and presenting at scientific conferences.
Proven ability to lead programs, mentor and supervise scientists, and drive scientific excellence.
High level of scientific rigor, curiosity, and passion for neuromuscular research.

Nice To Haves

Hands‑on experience with gene‑based or RNA‑based therapeutics, including LNP/mRNA, ASO or siRNA approaches, is a plus.
Experience with small‑molecule drug discovery and development, including target validation, hit identification, lead optimization, and preclinical characterization.
Demonstrated ability to design and interpret pharmacology, PK/PD, and efficacy studies to support programs.

Responsibilities

Lead multiple exploratory through pre‑IND programs, ensuring timely delivery of milestones and effective resource allocation across cross‑functional teams.
Identify and explore new targets and biological pathways, incorporating emerging technologies and experimental platforms.
Design, develop, characterize, and validate iPSC‑derived and primary human skeletal and cardiac 2D and 3D disease models to support therapeutic programs.
Characterize neuromuscular and skeletal muscle phenotypes in mouse models, including in vivo and ex vivo muscle force and neuromuscular junction assays.
Supervise and mentor junior scientists in the design and execution of in vitro assays and in vivo characterization studies.
Serve as a subject matter expert for internal decision‑making and external due diligence efforts.

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