Scientific Director, Neurology Research Strategy and Innovation

We are seeking a scientifically accomplished individual to join our Neurology Research Unit (NRU) as the Scientific Director of Neurology Research Strategy & Innovation. This is a senior-level, individual contributor role designed for a scientific thought leader who will work closely with the Head of Neurology Research and the NRU Leadership Team to shape and execute the strategic vision of our NRU portfolio.

The role demands a sophisticated and broad understanding of neuroscience, including intersection with adjacent biology, such as immunology. It also requires seamless coordination and strategic alignment across transversal and diverse topics with key stakeholders across Research and with the broader Biogen organization.

What You'll Do

• Lead the evolution of the NRU strategic narrative, aligned with the company's broader mission and open innovation principles.

• Lead the strategic assessment of new emerging biology domains towards clear and actionable conclusions.

• Lead communication of the strategic priorities of the NRU, internally and externally.

• Champion value creation for the NRU portfolio, through the integration of breakthrough science and technology opportunities.

As part of our open innovation model, this individual will play a pivotal role in identifying, assessing and integrating external best-in-class data and cutting-edge opportunities through partnership and external innovation to enrich and optimize our internal pipeline and support the delivery of strategically aligned INDs into clinical development.

Strategic Leadership:

• Drive NRU portfolio prioritization and strategic decision-making, with a focus on emerging biology, and highly promising external innovation.

• Act as a scientific and operational thought leader, ensuring integration of cross-functional insights and external intelligence into the NRU strategy.

• Evaluate intersecting biology areas with the Immunology Research Unit (IRU), such as neuroinflammation, towards synergistic value creation.

Scientific Expertise:

• Serve as an expert in neurology, bringing deep expertise in transversal and emerging biology towards a risk-balanced neurology pipeline, promoting emerging biology first-in-class plays alongside established biology best-in-class investment.

• Evaluate scientific trends and technologies to identify high-value/high-promise opportunity for partnership, acquisition, or internal development.

• Lead initiatives to advance understanding and application of cutting-edge research in neuroscience, including biomarkers, translational tools, and disease mechanisms, in collaboration with research and development partners.

External Innovation & Collaboration:

• Identify and cultivate external partnerships with academic institutions, biotech, and other innovators to enhance the NRU's capabilities and portfolio.

• Act as an external ambassador of the NRU, representing the company at scientific conferences and forums to stay at the forefront of neuroscience research and reinforce thought leadership.

• Support partnership with External Innovation colleagues, to maintain clear alignment and ensure efficient handling and assessment of incoming opportunities

Portfolio Management & Execution:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., Research program and project leadership, clinical, regulatory, and business development), to deliver on Neurology Research pipeline objectives.

• Support the Head of Neurology Research in monitoring research program progress, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.

• Develop metrics and systems to assess innovation initiatives.

Transversal Topic Leadership:

• Lead transversal topics, including neuroinflammation, emerging biology, and external innovation, integrating these into the broader neurology and company strategy.

• Facilitate cross-functional discussions to drive innovative solutions and create new opportunities across the Neurology portfolio.

Required Skills

• Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in a life-science field:  neurology, neuroscience, immunology, cell biology, pharmacology.

• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in academia or pharmaceutical/biotech setting, with recognized track record of scientific excellence (e.g., speakerships, peer reviewed publications).

• Expertise in translational research, drug discovery, and relevant biology.

• Proven ability to influence in a matrix environment and at the leadership team level

• Strong strategic thinking, with the ability to synthesize complex data and make actionable decisions.

• Ability to communicate effectively at all levels and present complex and/or new ideas with clarity and simplicity.

• Exceptional communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to navigate ambiguity and identify opportunities in emerging science.

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Additional Information

Base salary offered is determined through an analytical approach utilizing a combination of factors including, but not limited to, relevant skills & experience, job location, and internal equity.

Regular employees are eligible to receive both short term and long-term incentives, including cash bonus and equity incentive opportunities, designed to reward recent achievements and recognize your future potential based on individual, business unit and company performance. 

In addition to compensation, Biogen offers a full and highly competitive range of benefits designed to support our employees' and their families physical, financial, emotional, and social well-being; including, but not limited to:

• 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

Why Biogen?

We are a global team with a commitment to excellence, and a pioneering spirit. As a mid-sized biotechnology company, we provide the stability and resources of a well-established business while fostering an environment where individual contributions make a significant impact. Our team encompasses some of the most talented and passionate achievers who have unparalleled opportunities for learning, growth, and expanding their skills. Above all, we work together to deliver life-changing medicines, with every role playing a vital part in our mission. Caring Deeply. Achieving Excellence. Changing Lives.

At Biogen, we are committed to building on our culture of inclusion and belonging that reflects the communities where we operate and the patients we serve. We know that diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives make us a stronger and more innovative company, and we are focused on building teams where every employee feels empowered and inspired. Read on to learn more about our DE&I efforts.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law. Biogen is an E-Verify Employer in the United States.