Head, Ophthalmology Precision Medicine, Medical Director (MD)

Head, Ophthalmology Precision Medicine, Medical Director (MD)

Full-Time 70000 - 90000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Roche

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the creation of a new Ophthalmology Precision Medicine group, integrating cutting-edge science and AI.
  • Company: Join Roche, a global leader in healthcare innovation and diversity.
  • Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment focused on innovation and building something new.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of ophthalmic therapy and make a real impact on patient care.
  • Qualifications: Board-certified ophthalmologist with expertise in retinal diseases and imaging technologies.

The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.

At Roche you can show up as yourself, embraced for the unique qualities you bring. Our culture encourages personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where you are valued, accepted and respected for who you are, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally. This is how we aim to prevent, stop and cure diseases and ensure everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Join Roche, where every voice matters.

Within Pharma Research & Early Development (pRED), our Ophthalmology teams are redefining how precision medicine can transform the detection and treatment of complex retinal diseases. This is a rare opportunity to build a new function from the ground up — establishing an Ophthalmology Precision Medicine group at our Welwyn site that brings together biomarker science, advanced imaging, clinical expertise, and artificial intelligence. You will have the platform, pipeline, and resources to shape something truly new in one of the most dynamic areas of ophthalmic research.

The Opportunity

  • Build a new Ophthalmology Precision Medicine function from the ground up — defining the vision, structure, and scientific direction for a group that integrates biomarkers, advanced imaging, clinical science, and AI across the pRED Ophthalmology portfolio.
  • Lead a cross-functional expert team spanning translational medicine, imaging, clinical development, data science, and biomarker disciplines — ensuring precision medicine is at the heart of our Ophthalmology strategy.
  • Bridge laboratory science and clinical practice by steering the generation of robust fluid- and imaging biomarker strategies that enable project and disease area decisions.
  • Advance innovation in imaging science by directing cutting-edge ophthalmic imaging approaches including OCT, OCT-A, and FA to inform future clinical practice and therapeutic development.
  • Enable translational insights through AI and data by integrating preclinical and clinical datasets using classical and next-generation analytical approaches.
  • Influence portfolio strategy across multiple retinal diseases including neovascular AMD, diabetic macular edema, geographic atrophy, and intermediate AMD — driving the direction and future of clinical development and research.
  • Represent Roche externally through strong partnerships with scientific experts, investigators, and the broader ophthalmology community — remaining at the forefront of innovation.

Who you are

  • You are a board-certified ophthalmologist (MD or MD/PhD) with deep expertise in ophthalmology, translational medicine, or biomedical sciences.
  • You are a recognised expert in the retina space, with a strong scientific publication record and standing as a key opinion leader in your field.
  • You have deep knowledge of ophthalmic imaging technologies (OCT, OCT-A, FA) and experience with imaging analysis or Reading Centre environments.
  • You are experienced in integrating preclinical and clinical data to support proof of biology, efficacy, and safety strategies, with some exposure to clinical trials.
  • You are a collaborative scientific leader who thrives in matrix environments, energised by innovation and the opportunity to build something new.

Preferred

  • Experience applying AI or machine learning to ophthalmic imaging analysis or clinical data interpretation.
  • Prior experience in pharmaceutical drug development programmes for retinal diseases.
  • Flexible working arrangements may be available for exceptional candidates who wish to maintain some clinical activity alongside this role.

If building a world-class precision medicine function and shaping the future of ophthalmic therapy development is the kind of challenge that excites you — apply now and help us bring transformative medicines to patients faster.

Who we are

A healthier future drives us to innovate. Together, more than 100’000 employees across the globe are dedicated to advance science, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Our efforts result in more than 26 million people treated with our medicines and over 30 billion tests conducted using our Diagnostics products. We empower each other to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep our ambitions high, so we can deliver life-changing healthcare solutions that make a global impact.

Let’s build a healthier future, together.

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of Roche Products Ltd. At Roche Products we believe diversity drives innovation and we are committed to building a diverse and flexible working environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion or belief, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability or age. We recognise the importance of flexible working and will review all applicants’ requests with care. At Roche difference is valued and we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer where you are encouraged to bring your whole self to work.

Head, Ophthalmology Precision Medicine, Medical Director (MD) employer: Roche

At Roche, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation, where every employee is valued for their unique contributions. Located in Welwyn, this role offers the rare opportunity to lead the establishment of a pioneering Ophthalmology Precision Medicine group, supported by cutting-edge resources and a collaborative environment that encourages professional growth and personal expression. Join us in shaping the future of healthcare while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity.

Roche

Contact Details:

Roche Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head, Ophthalmology Precision Medicine, Medical Director (MD)

Get Involved in Local Health Initiatives

Dive into local health initiatives or volunteer at community health events. This not only boosts your practical experience but also gets you noticed among professionals in human medicine who may have leads on full-time positions like Head, Ophthalmology Precision Medicine, Medical Director (MD) at Roche.

Connect with Professionals via Medical Associations

Join professional associations related to human medicine, such as the Royal College of Physicians. Attend their conferences and networking events to meet potential employers in a relaxed setting. Who knows, you might just bump into someone from Roche!

Showcase Your Passion and Expertise Online

Build a personal website or a professional blog where you can share your insights on human medicine topics. This portfolio can catch the eye of recruiters looking for dedicated individuals for full-time roles like Head, Ophthalmology Precision Medicine, Medical Director (MD).

Leverage University Career Services

If you’re still in or recently graduated from university, don’t hesitate to use your career services. They often have exclusive listings and contacts in the human medicine field that can help you land a full-time gig at places like Roche.

We think you need these skills to ace Head, Ophthalmology Precision Medicine, Medical Director (MD)

Ophthalmology Expertise
Translational Medicine
Biomedical Sciences
Ophthalmic Imaging Technologies (OCT, OCT-A, FA)
Imaging Analysis
Clinical Trials Experience
AI and Machine Learning Application

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for the Head, Ophthalmology Precision Medicine, Medical Director (MD) at Roche, 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, Ophthalmology Precision Medicine, Medical Director (MD) at Roche. 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!

Include Continuing Education:Make sure to mention any ongoing education or courses you’re taking to keep your skills sharp. In human medicine, staying updated with the latest practices is key. It shows you’re dedicated to your field, which employers like Roche will definitely appreciate!

How to prepare for a job interview at Roche

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.

Demonstrate Soft Skills

In human medicine, technical skills are crucial, but don’t forget to showcase your soft skills like communication, empathy, and teamwork. In your answers, share specific examples of how you've worked effectively with patients or colleagues in the past, as these traits are highly valued in clinical settings.

Know Your CV Backwards

As you’re applying for a full-time position, your CV should tell a story. Be ready to discuss every part of it, especially your clinical experiences, the impact you had, and what you learned. Employers want to see how your journey has prepared you for this role, so think of it like you're taking them through your professional narrative.

Prepare for Ethical Scenarios

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.