Director, Translational Medicine Expert (Neurodegeneration)

The Director, Translational Medicine Expert (Neurodegeneration) will lead the end to end translational strategy for neurodegenerative programs, bridging preclinical research to early clinical development (Phase 1–2). This role is accountable for biomarker strategy, clinical endpoint selection, and early phase trial design, enabling efficient, data driven decision-making through key development milestones (e.g., Transition Decision Points) and ensuring competitive differentiation of neuromuscular assets. In addition, he/she oversees the planning, execution, and interpretation of clinical trials research, data collection activities and clinical operations. Establishes and approves scientific methods for design and implementation of clinical protocols, data collection systems and final reports. Support new and ongoing clinical research and clinical trials and ensure efficient and timely processing of confidentiality agreements and clinical agreements.

Key Responsibilities

• Translational Strategy & Program Leadership
  • Define and execute integrated translational strategies across neurodegeneration programs
  • Lead translational components from preclinical → Phase 1/2 clinical studies
  • Drive program progression through key decision gates (e.g., IND, TDP, IDPA)
  • Ensure strong mechanistic linkage between target biology, biomarkers, and clinical endpoints
• Biomarker & Endpoint Leadership
  • Collaborate with Biomarker Development colleagues toward development and validation of:
  • Molecular biomarkers (tissue, blood, CSF where applicable)
  • Functional endpoints (strength, mobility, disease-specific measures)
  • Patient-reported outcomes (PROs)
  • Establishing quantitative biomarkers to support:
  • Target engagement
  • Disease modification
  • Dose selection and PoC decisions
  • Integrate biomarker strategy into clinical protocols and operational plans
  • Drive early biomarker de-risking, a key priority in neuromuscular programs
• Early Clinical Development (Phase 1/2)
  • Co‑lead design and execution of early clinical studies
  • Define: Dose escalation strategy, Exposure–response framework, Translational endpoints (biopsy, imaging, functional)
  • Ensure TM leadership within Clinical Trial Teams (CTTs) for:
  • Trial design
  • Execution oversight
  • Data interpretation and decision-making
• Cross-Functional Leadership
  • Serve as core Translational Medicine representative within global project teams
  • Partner closely with Clinical Development, Biomarker Development, Clinical Pharmacology (PKS), Preclinical Safety (PCS), Regulatory
  • Drive alignment between research, TM, and development organizations
• External Scientific Leadership
  • Build and lead collaborations with Academic KOLs, Patient advocacy groups (critical in rare neuromuscular disease), Technology partners (imaging, omics platforms)
  • Contribute to scientific strategy and external positioning of programs
• Patient-Centered Development
  • Integrate the patient voice into translational and clinical strategies
  • Advance: Meaningful functional endpoints, Patient-relevant outcome measures, Innovative trial approaches (e.g., decentralized models where feasible)
• Portfolio Contribution & Strategic Input
  • Contribute to Asset prioritization and portfolio strategy
  • Competitive differentiation strategy (e.g., vs RNA or gene therapy competitors)
  • Provide scientific input to Business development / due diligence, Indication expansion strategies

Essential Requirements

• MD, neurologists, clinical training in neurodegenerative diseases
• Experience in translational medicine, early clinical development, or experimental therapeutics.
• Ability to shape development strategies, execute early clinical studies, and influence regulatory/packages supporting differentiation.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience working in pharmaceutical/biotech company strongly preferred.
• PhD, PharmD, or equivalent in Neurology / Neuroscience or Neurodegenerative diseases

Benefits & Rewards

At Novartis, we’re committed to reimagining medicine together - and rewarding the people who make it happen. Expected Annual Base Salary Range for role: £96,036.50 - £178,353.50 GBP. The base salary offered is determined based on gender-neutral objectives, such as relevant skills, competencies and experience in accordance with the Novartis pay setting policy and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for a performance-based bonus depending on certain performance parameters. The rewards of being part of our team go far beyond base pay and incentives. We also offer a variety of competitive benefits in kind to help you thrive personally and professionally, such as insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and global recognition programs. In addition, we provide flexible and hybrid working options, where possible, and minimum 14 weeks paid parental leave. Long-term equity awards granted at group level may also be part of your package. Further details will be provided during the application process. You may be eligible for a company vehicle or a car allowance in accordance with the applicable local Novartis policies and guidelines. Pay equity is a fundamental principle of our employment policy and reflects our commitment to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment that treats all employees with dignity and respect, as outlined in our Code of Ethics.

Skills Desired

• Clinical Trials
• Data Analysis
• Data Monitoring
• Drug Development
• Medical Research
• People Management

Improving the lives of people living with disease takes more than innovative science. It takes a focus on the needs of people and a community committed to meeting them. It takes a team of people like you. Working together. Learning together. Thriving together.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion / EEO

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams’ representative of the patients and communities we serve.

Why Novartis

Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together?