Overview
In this role you drive the end-to-end translational strategy for neurodegeneration, bridging preclinical work to Phase 1–2 development. You lead biomarker and endpoint strategy, trial design, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure data-driven decisions and competitive differentiation. You will oversee clinical research execution and data interpretation, shaping protocols, data collection, and reports. You will also engage external experts and patient groups to strengthen scientific strategy and patient-centered development.
Pay / Benefits
- health, life and disability benefits
- 401(k) with company contribution and match
- equity awards eligibility
- comprehensive benefits package for US-based employees
- generous time off package
- performance-based incentive
Responsibilities
- Define and execute integrated translational strategies across neurodegeneration programs
- Lead translational components from preclinical to Phase 1/2 clinical studies
- Drive program progression through decision gates (IND, TDP, IDPA)
- Ensure mechanistic linkage between target biology, biomarkers, and clinical endpoints
- Collaborate on development and validation of molecular biomarkers, functional endpoints, and PROs
- Establish quantitative biomarkers to support target engagement, disease modification, dose selection and PoC decisions
- Co-lead design and execution of early clinical studies including dose escalation and exposure–response frameworks
- Lead TM input within Clinical Trial Teams for trial design, execution oversight, data interpretation
- Serve as core Translational Medicine representative within global project teams and align research, TM, and development
Key requirements
- MD, neurologist, with clinical training in neurodegenerative diseases
- Experience in translational medicine, early clinical development, or experimental therapeutics
- Ability to shape development strategies, execute early trials, and influence regulatory packaging for differentiation
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Strategic leadership
- External partnership building
- Translational medicine
- Biomarker development (molecular, imaging, CSF)
- End-point development (functional, PROs)
Director, Translational Medicine Expert (Neurodegeneration) in Cambridge employer: Novartis
Novartis is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment, where passionate individuals come together to drive breakthroughs in precision medicine. With competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and robust learning and development opportunities, employees are empowered to grow both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact on patients' lives. Located in vibrant cities like London, Barcelona, and Dublin, Novartis offers a dynamic workplace that values diversity and encourages innovation.
