At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative neurodegeneration programs and shape translational strategies in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Novartis, a leader in reimagining medicine with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible working, and comprehensive wellbeing resources.
- Other info: Enjoy a culture of empowerment, innovation, and collaboration across global teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neurodegenerative disease research and development while mentoring future talent.
- Qualifications: MD and PhD required, with 10+ years in translational medicine and leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 50850 - 223801 £ per year.
- Salary Range
- £120,508.50 - £223,801.50
Job Description Summary
- #LI-Hybrid
- Internal job title: Executive Director
As the Head of Neurodegeneration within Translational Medicine, you will serve as a senior scientific and strategic leader responsible for shaping and delivering the translational strategy for neurodegenerative therapeutic programs.
You will provide expert guidance bridging research, early clinical development, and biomarker/experimental medicine innovation to advance assets from discovery through proof-of-concept and into full development.
In addition, you will lead or integrate global, cross-functional teams to design, implement, and execute cutting-edge translational strategies, and act as an influential thought partner in neurodegenerative disease biology, clinical development, and emerging therapeutic modalities.
Job Description
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership & Scientific
Direction: Define and oversee the long-term translational strategy for the Neurodegeneration Pillar, ensuring scientific excellence and alignment with broader BR and TM organizational priorities.
- Serve as a senior advisor and thought leader within neurodegeneration disorders, leveraging deep specialty expertise to inform program design, biomarker strategy, and patient-relevant endpoints.
- Program & Portfolio
Leadership: Lead global translational teams across Phase I-IIa ("Discovery" through TDP), driving implementation of high‑quality development strategies in single or multiple neurodegeneration indications.
- Represent TM on global program teams (GPT) and decision boards, ensuring that neurodegeneration programs meet quality, regulatory, and differentiation objectives.
- Translational & Clinical
- Development
Excellence: Lead the design and execution of First‑in‑Human (FIH) and Phase IIa studies, working collaboratively with clinical, regulatory, biomarker, and profiling partners.
- Leads the creation of clinical components of key documents e. g., Clinical Trial Protocols (CTPs), Investigator's Brochures, Clinical Study Reports (CSRs), regulatory documents etc. with high levels of quality and consistency.
- Leadership of People, Culture, and Matrix Teams: Serve as a culture champion, promoting empowerment, innovation, and collaboration across TM and broader BR organizations.
- Mentor and develop scientific talent across translational and clinical functions.
- External Impact & Partnerships: Lead interactions with external stakeholders (e. g., regulatory authorities, key opinion leaders, data monitoring committees, advisory boards etc.) and internal NVS stakeholders.
- Contribute to opportunity assessments and due diligence for neurodegeneration and adjacent therapeutic areas.
- Governance, Compliance & Documentation.
Essential Requirements
- MD and Ph D required with clinical subspecialty training in neurological diseases with deep expertise in neurodegeneration disorders.
- A minimum of 10+ years of extensive experience in translational medicine, early clinical development, or experimental therapeutics.
- Demonstrated success leading complex global programs and cross-functional scientific teams.
- Proven ability to shape development strategies, execute early clinical studies, and influence regulatory/packages supporting differentiation.
- Experience working in pharmaceutical/biotech company strongly preferred.
Desirable Requirements
- Direct people management experience.
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: £120,508.50 - £223,801.50 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.
- You may be eligible for a company vehicle or a car allowance in accordance with the applicable local Novartis policies and guidelines.
- Long-term equity awards granted at group level may also be part of your package. Further details will be provided during the application process.
- 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.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Neurodegeneration, Translational Medicine 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.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Neurodegeneration, Translational Medicine
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
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Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Neurodegeneration, Translational Medicine
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Novartis that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Novartis.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Novartis does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Novartis
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Novartis. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Novartis's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Novartis. This shows your passion for the industry!
