Sr. Dir, Biology-Discovery

MSD•Cambridge, MA

2d•$194,100 - $305,600

About The Position

The Senior Director, Translational and Biomarker Lead will shape and oversee translational and biomarker strategy for immunology programs, integrating discovery insights, human biology, and early clinical development. The role guides hypothesis-driven mechanistic, preclinical, in vivo, and biomarker studies, translating complex data into recommendations that inform portfolio decisions. As a leader of multiple teams, this individual aligns priorities, develops talent, fosters accountability, and integrates diverse scientific expertise in a collaborative, matrixed organization. The role sits at the interface of Discovery, Biomarkers, and Early Development, influencing translational data generation from internal clinical studies and external collaborations. The individual identifies, manages, and executes research partnerships with academic investigators and CROs, particularly involving patient sample acquisition, multi-omics data generation, and interpretation with computational and Data Science partners. The role works across functions, including Clinical, Commercial, and Medical Affairs, to integrate data across disciplines, accelerate decisions, and advance immunology programs from discovery into development.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree with 20+ years, Master's degree with 18+ years, or Ph.D. with 10+ years in Immunology, Cell Biology, or a related field, plus relevant immunology research experience.
At least seven years of direct industry experience.
Knowledge and experience in immune-mediated diseases, including understanding of molecular disease-driving pathways, relevant clinical trial results, and the immunology and autoinflammation competitive landscape.
Experience ideating, establishing, and executing translational research strategies in immune diseases, including strategic fit and coordination of data generation and interpretation with computational scientists and other functions.
Experience shaping and executing discovery research and drug development in immunology, focused on autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Experience developing clinically relevant biomarkers for target engagement and pharmacodynamic measures.
At least five years of direct management experience overseeing multiple teams, with demonstrated leadership, team alignment and motivation, and a passion for team building and talent development.
Strong awareness of safety and environmental requirements.
Understanding of integration and partnering needed for pharmaceutical development with Translational Medicine, Clinical, CMC, Regulatory, Operations, and other functional areas.
Effective communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills, including the ability to work with senior-level managers in meetings with multiple cross-functional representatives.
Required skills: Assay Development, Biochemical Assays, Business Development, External Collaboration, High Performance Team Building, High Throughput Drug Screening, Immunoassays, Immunology, Innovation, In Vitro Studies, Mechanism of Action Studies, Motivating Teams, People Leadership, Research Methodologies, and Translational Research.

Responsibilities

Lead and mentor a high-performing translational and biomarker research team, setting scientific direction, prioritizing portfolio opportunities, and fostering a collaborative, rigorous, and innovative culture.
Drive the translational and biomarker research portfolio by identifying and advancing opportunities to study assets through strategically structured in vitro systems, ex vivo studies using selected patient samples, and animal models, linking mechanism of action, disease biology, PK/PD, and translatable clinical endpoints.
Guide the design and execution of translational experimental plans, analysis strategies, and forward- and reverse-translational research with internal teams and external partners, ensuring operational feasibility, fit-for-purpose approaches, and readiness for FIH/PoC studies aligned with early development indication plans.
Lead biomarker strategy implementation across preclinical and clinical settings with Discovery, Non-Clinical Drug Safety, Translational Medicine, and Data Science teams.
Champion adoption of emerging technologies, platforms, and therapeutic modalities to enable discovery and prosecution of novel targets in immunological disease, including small molecules, peptides, biologics, and T cell engagers.
Maintain and share awareness of scientific developments, research methodologies, novel platforms, and emerging modalities to strengthen team capability and portfolio decision-making.
Engage scientific investigators, KOLs, and external partners to enable high-quality execution, scientific exchange, and strategic collaboration.
Oversee preparation of abstracts, presentations, and manuscripts for conferences and peer-reviewed publications, ensuring scientific quality and appropriate team contributions.