Senior/Executive Director, ExploR&D Translational Biology

Eli Lilly • Boston, MA

396d • $187,500 - $275,000

About The Position

The position at Lilly involves leading and executing the scientific strategy for ExploR D, the company's external innovation organization focused on biotech collaboration. The role requires a deep understanding of drug discovery and translational biology, with responsibilities that include identifying high-potential scientific opportunities, conducting due diligence on external programs, and guiding translational science from discovery through early clinical development. The successful candidate will work closely with internal and external partners to foster collaborations that enhance Lilly's scientific capabilities and pipeline.

Requirements

• PhD with a minimum of 5 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Thorough understanding of drug discovery and translational biology, including regulatory and IP considerations.
• Proven track record in moving projects to IND/CTA.
• Portfolio or therapeutic area-level leadership responsibilities.
• Experience contributing to external program diligence.

Nice To Haves

• Scientific experience spanning two or more therapeutic areas.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent self-management and organizational skills.
• Strong interpersonal and teambuilding skills.
• Well-grounded in business development fundamentals.

Responsibilities

• Shape and execute ExploR D's collaborative scientific strategy.
• Work closely with the ExploR D External Partnering team to identify and evaluate innovative scientific opportunities.
• Conduct rigorous biological due diligence on external programs.
• Provide expert insights across ExploR D's portfolio, guiding translational science from discovery through early clinical development.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of ExploR D's scientific strategy.
• Collaborate with the ExploR D leadership to craft a strategic roadmap.
• Partner with the External Partnering team to identify and evaluate innovative scientific opportunities globally.
• Build and apply a strategic thesis for collaboration that aligns with both short- and long-term objectives.
• Conduct in-depth biology diligence on prospective external programs.
• Design and support the development of collaborative work plans that maximize the scientific and strategic potential of each collaboration.
• Provide ongoing translational biology expertise across the active ExploR D portfolio.
• Represent ExploR D at scientific conferences and industry meetings.

Benefits

• Eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k)
• Pension benefits
• Vacation benefits
• Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits
• Flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts)
• Life insurance and death benefits
• Employee assistance program
• Fitness benefits
• Employee clubs and activities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree