Global Head, Low Molecular Weight Discovery (PKS Therapeutic Area)
Novartis
204k - 380k USD/year
Office
Cambridge (USA), United States
Full Time
Band
Level 7
Job Description Summary
Internal Title: Executive Director#LI-Hybrid
This position can be based in Cambridge, MA USA or Basel, Switzerland and cannot be located remotely. This position will require 25% travel as defined by the business (domestic and or international).
As a globally recognized leader in the discipline with specific subject matter expertise with the advancement of low molecular-weight compounds (LMW), you will lead a team of project team representatives comprised of PK Science experts (PTMs) to ensure optimal support at all stages during the research phase, and across the therapeutic area. As the leader of this group, you will be responsible for delivering on the science and overseeing the implementation of preclinical drug discovery activities, and all scientific activities within PK Sciences to ensure the success of this portfolio. The role directly leads or brings together through matrix leadership a diverse, global team to effectively design and execute a long-term, LMW drug discovery strategy. The role is recognized for leadership, scientific and regulatory expertise in drug discovery (and safety assessment as it pertains to PK Sciences and molecule optimization). A key responsibility of the role is to enable the advancement of Artificial intelligence/ machine learning approaches enable model guided molecular design and the use of predictive models. The position reports to the Global Head, Therapeutic Areas in PK Sciences.
Job Description
Key Responsibilities:
Being the principal face of PK Sciences to LMW Discovery efforts specifically with key partners (e.g. Global Discovery Chemistry).
Assuming authority and responsibility to ensure that scientifically tailored and compliant project specific plans are in place for every identified project at all stages during the research phase.
Working closely with PKS TA Leadership to understand priorities and inform PTMs to adapt project plans in real time as appropriate. Working with operations and planning partners within PK Sciences to ensure that overall project and portfolio priorities are planned and executed as required. The individual closely interfaces with TA Heads to adapt individual project strategies based on the need and prioritization in the portfolio, according to disease area strategy.
Working effectively with key partners (such as PKS Drug Disposition) in assessing specific needs and directing plans to deliver an efficient workflow that results in candidate optimization.
Working effectively with key partners (such as PKS Modeling & Simulation) in advancing and strengthening modeling capabilities to meet future scientific and strategic demands as part of the workplan. Establish a working PTM model to focus on projects that leverage an in silico first approach and integration with discovery PTM efforts.
Developing and sustaining specific expertise relevant to drug discovery i.e., competitive landscape, risk benefit, regulatory requirements, best practices, and global Health Authority requirements and expectations. This knowledge is expected to be highly developed for preclinical low molecular discovery work.
Ensuring the high quality and timely execution of preclinical plans and reports, summaries and publications. Assists in ensuring seamless transfer of a project into clinical development.
Driving close interdisciplinary collaboration among the PK Science disciplines (Drug Disposition (ADME, BA) and Modeling & Simulation and Operations through the PTM and PK science sub-teams to achieve a holistic and integrative perspective of the ADME/clinical pharmacology properties of candidates and drugs.
Partner with other line functions to nominate members to PK Science sub teams.
Ensures career development of associates through active participation in performance management and talent planning processes. As needed, provides on-board training, and mentoring support for recruitment efforts.
Essential Requirements:
Education:
PhD in pharmacology, toxicology or a related biological science; appropriate training and experience. PharmD or equivalent with a strong biological background or equivalent work experience.
Experience/professional requirement:
•Demonstrated managerial and leadership skills a in pharmaceutical or equivalent life sciences organization
• A minimum of 10 years’ experience around preclinical development.
• Track record of demonstrated expertise and experience specifically in aspects of drug discovery and how it relates to future development (as it pertains to PKS). Familiarity and experience with respective health authorities, GCP and ICH requirements and interactions.
• Familiarity in disease areas expertise, encompassing business strategy and trends is preferred. Innovative and critical thinking. Process and performance orientation, characterized by constant drive to improve both science and working practice.
Preferred Requirements:
• People management experience is highly desirable.
• Experience in either the successful IND’s and/or regulatory interactions is desirable.
The salary for this position is expected to range between $204,400 and $379,600 per year.
The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.
Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.
US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.
EEO Statement:
The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential.
Accessibility and reasonable accommodations
The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to tas.nacomms@novartis.com call +1 (877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.
https://www.novartis.com/careers/careers-research/notice-all-applicants-us-job-openings
Salary Range
$204,400.00 - $379,600.00
Skills Desired
Business Administration, Business Strategy, Clinical Pharmacology, Clinical Research, Collaboration, Communication, Conflict Solving, Data Entry, Drug Development, Enterprise Mindset, Influence, Leadership, Mentoring, Microsoft Office, Oscilloscope, Partnership, Patient Care, Physics, Quality Control, Transactional AnalysisGlobal Head, Low Molecular Weight Discovery (PKS Therapeutic Area)
Office
Cambridge (USA), United States
Full Time
204k - 380k USD/year
August 5, 2025