At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative neurodegeneration projects and shape translational strategies in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Novartis, a leader in transforming medicine and improving lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible working, and comprehensive wellbeing resources.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and patient care.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neurodegenerative disease research and development.
- Qualifications: MD and PhD with 10+ years in translational medicine and leadership experience.
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.
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. Lead 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.
Essential Requirements:
- MD and PhD 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. Long-term equity awards granted at group level may also be part of your package. Further details will be provided during the application process.
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.
Skills Desired: Clinical Decision Making, Clinical Research, Clinical Trials, Drug Development, Leadership, People Management, Risk Management, Strategy Development.
Head of Neurodegeneration, Translational Medicine in London employer: Novartis
Novartis is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly in the dynamic environment of London. Employees benefit from hybrid working arrangements, allowing for flexibility while engaging in meaningful projects that enhance global security and resilience. With a strong focus on professional development and the application of cutting-edge AI technologies, Novartis provides ample opportunities for growth and impactful contributions to the healthcare sector.
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Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for the Head of Neurodegeneration, Translational Medicine at Novartis, focus on highlighting your clinical experience and any specific training you've undergone. Include any relevant placements or internships you’ve completed, as well as any certifications that bolster your qualifications in human medicine.
Highlight Your Soft Skills:In the field of human medicine, soft skills are just as crucial as technical knowledge. Mention your communication skills, empathy, and teamwork experiences in your CV and cover letter. This shows that you can work well in a clinical setting and with patients, which is super important in this industry!
Tailor Your Cover Letter Thoughtfully:Be sure to personalise your cover letter for the Head of Neurodegeneration, Translational Medicine at Novartis. Mention why you’re passionate about human medicine and how you align with the company’s mission. This is your chance to convey your enthusiasm and make a case for why you'll be a valuable addition to the team!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Novartis
✨Brush Up on Clinical Knowledge
Since you're aiming for a role in human medicine, make sure you’re sharp on the latest clinical guidelines and practices relevant to the position. Be prepared to discuss case studies or scenarios you might encounter in the role. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also ready to apply that knowledge in real-life situations.
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Ethics are a big deal in human medicine, so expect questions that assess your decision-making in tricky situations. Think about how you'd handle ethical dilemmas or patient confidentiality concerns. Prepare a few examples that illustrate your thought process and how you prioritise patient welfare in your decision-making.
