Senior Research Lead - Oncology

Astellas Pharma • Westborough, MA

27d • Hybrid

About The Position

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact. The Senior Research Lead in Oncology at Astellas is a strategic leader and key member of our scientific oncology research team, dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative therapeutic compounds for cancer treatment. This role reports to the Head of Oncology Research and involves providing global strategic leadership, scientific expertise, and business acumen to drive the success of our nonclinical research programs as well as providing scientific expertise support for clinical programs. Senior Research Lead also serves as a mentor for other Research Leads.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in life science (e.g., Ph.D., M.D., D.V.M.) with more than 12 - 15 years’ industry and minimum 7 – 10 years of drug discovery and development experience in roles of increasing project leadership responsibility.
• Extensive experience leading multiple assets from preclinical to development, particularly in oncology and immune-oncology.
• Proven track record in managing nonclinical research teams and drug development projects in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology setting.
• Experience with modalities such as small and large molecules and ADCs, etc...
• Proven track record of successful drug discovery programs, including lead compound identification and optimization.
• Deep understanding of drug discovery techniques and processes, from target identification to preclinical development.
• Excellent leadership and strategic planning skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams towards achieving ambitious goals.
• Strong business acumen and understanding of pharmaceutical industry regulations and processes (e.g. IND, NDA submissions).
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a focus on data-driven approaches.

Responsibilities

• Drive the research program from Discovery (DC) stage through Candidate Nomination (CN) as a leader, ensuring alignment with company goals and a robust pipeline of clinical candidates.
• Co-lead the Asset Maximization Team (AMT) with Asset Lead from CN to First Subject Dose (FSD), supporting clinical development as a subject matter expert (SME) in nonclinical science after FSD.
• Provide scientific leadership and mentorship, fostering innovation and guiding teams on strategic and technical decisions.
• Evaluate and prioritize drug candidates based on scientific, medical and commercial considerations in collaboration with Dev and Com representatives, incorporating the latest advancements in oncology research, drug discovery technologies, and industry trends.
• Lead program reviews, milestone decisions, and budget/resource allocation, ensuring financial and operational efficiency for their responsible Research team in collaboration with sub-functional unit heads.
• Share best practices with other Research Leads, leading training programs and mentoring them to enhance program strategies and execution.
• Build and lead high-performing, transparent, and creative research teams, fostering innovation and collaboration.
• Manage team priorities, resources, and investments in alignment with the company's overall oncology strategy and objectives.
• Attract, develop, and retain top-tier talent by driving innovation and providing growth opportunities.
• Oversee experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation, ensuring high scientific rigor and impactful decision-making.
• Lead their responsible Research team and collaborate closely with other Research teams, Primary Focus Lead (PFL)-Oncology, Development team, T&M team, and other key stakeholders to drive program success.
• Align research objectives with the broader oncology strategy, ensuring seamless coordination with key stakeholders and leadership teams.
• Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including academic institutions and industry partners.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year-end shut down
• 401(k) match and annual company contribution
• Company paid life insurance
• Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions
• Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions
• Company-paid fleet vehicle for eligible positions
• Referral bonus program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees