Director, Translational Research at AstraZeneca in New Haven, Connecticut

Job Description:

This is what you will do:



The Director of Translational Research will be responsible for:


Translational activities for rare diseases focused translational research group within the Translational and biomarker research group at Alexion, AZ rare disease Research Department in New Haven. Setting and overseeing the implementation of translational and biomarker objectives for the portfolio assets. Ensuring seamless collaborations between research and development and to drive establishment of strong target to disease linkage to support data driven decision making. Leading a cross functional team for a) the identification of new indications for Alexion therapeutics; b) the functional differentiation of Alexion targets from competitors; c) driving rigorous translational understanding of clinical trial data, d) drive key translational/BM hypothesis for treatment response or non-responsiveness



You will be responsible for:

• Leading a group of scientists with diverse scientific and technical background.


• Represent translational research in programs at target selection stage onwards to drive strong translational data packages.


• Lead by example and drive scientific rigor and innovation, integrate latest cutting-edge technological advancements to deliver on translational research packages.


• Collaborate with research leaders to provide strategic oversight for


• portfolio and people.


• Effective networking within the research & development organization and governance structures to understand the portfolio and be able to anticipate and proactively address translational gaps.


• Use scientific and leadership expertise to drive strong performance of group by recruiting, retaining and developing scientists.


• Actively participate in Alexion's internal scientific and strategic meetings, scientific advisory board meetings and experts' conferences by presenting and critically evaluating the science and contributing to the evaluation of projects

You will need to have:

• Ph.D. in the biological sciences


• At least 10 years of relevant translational and biomarker experience and at least 10 years of leadership experiences experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry


• Strong knowledge of the pathogenesis of rare diseases and the application of cellular, molecular technologies and models to drive program decisions, including those related to supporting value propositions, Research Target Profiles and biomarker discovery.


• Deep understanding of translational approaches for different modalities including small molecules, biologics, gene and cell therapy.


• Strong leadership abilities for project teams and line management responsibilities, and an ability to bring together diverse skill sets to form a cohesive team. Strong written and oral communication skills, including cross-functional collaborative and communication skills


• Ability to prepare technical reports, publications and oral presentations

We would prefer for you to have:

• Prior experience working within translational research organization.


• Prior experience in BM efforts and IND filing


• Establishing and leading external partnerships in rare indications and identifying experts to drive cutting edge translational research.

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements. Apply Now