Executive Director, Translational Research

Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to treating, and one day curing, life-threatening diseases. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, we are developing advanced cell therapies across a diverse array of technology platforms, including autologous and allogenic chimeric antigen receptor T-cell, T-cell receptor (TCR-T), and natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapy. From our three R&D sites around the world, we apply these innovative technologies to pursue the discovery of safe, efficacious and cutting-edge therapeutics for patients worldwide.  

Legend Biotech entered into a global collaboration agreement with Janssen, one of the pharmaceutical companies of Johnson & Johnson, to jointly develop and commercialize ciltacabtagene autolecuel (cilta-cel). Our strategic partnership is designed to combine the strengths and expertise of both companies to advance the promise of an immunotherapy in the treatment of multiple myeloma.

Legend Biotech is seeking Executive Director,Translational Research as part of the Research & Development team based in Somerset, NJ. 

Role Overview

The individual will lead the translational sciences group to provide translational biomarker support for Legend pipeline development. Ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge in immunology and tumor biology. Experiences in cell ore gene therapy development is preferred. He/she is responsible for design, delivery, and execution of biomarker and translational strategies including patient selection, pharmacodynamic endpoints, target engagement and pharmacodynamics and safety biomarkers. The individual will work close with preclinical, CMC and clinical development team to develop mechanism of action hypotheses and identify key characteristics of cell therapy products.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead translational team, and provide preclinical and clinical translational support for Legend pipeline development
• Coach and lead translational representatives in cross functional development teams; Collaborate with discovery, preclinical development, CMC and clinical teams to accelerate the product pipeline
• Establish translational biomarker strategy in alignment with clinical development objectives; Lead translational safety investigation, develop MOA hypothesis and identify key characteristics relevant to efficacy and treatment failure
• Work closely with clinical and regulatory teams in investigator brochures, IND applications, clinical protocols, and other clinical and regulatory documents when appropriate
• Accountable for patient selection strategies, CDx development, approval and implementation
• Provide oversight and management to CROs and academic collaborations

Requirements

• PhD or MD in biology, immunology, biochemistry or related field
• At least 15 years of relevant work experience, including a minimum of 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical or biotech industry. Experience in cell therapy clinical development is preferred. Knowledge and experience in CDx development are plus
• In depth Knowledge of immunology and tumor biology
• Strong background in clinical biomarker analysis, research tools, technology and assay platforms
• Excellent communication and writing skills
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in cross functional teams
• Language: English

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The anticipated base pay range is:$248,615—$326,307 USD

Benefits:

We are committed to creating a workplace where employees can thrive - both professionally and personally. To attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive industry, we offer a best-in-class benefits package that supports well-being, financial stability, and long-term career growth. Our offerings are designed to meet the diverse needs of our team members and their families, ensuring they feel valued and supported every step of the way. Highlights include medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with company match that vest fully on day one. Equity and stock options are available to employees in eligible roles, we offer eight weeks of paid parental leave after just three months of employment, and a paid time off policy that includes 15 vacation days, 5 personal days, 5 sick days, 11 U.S. national holidays, and 3 floating holidays. Additional benefits include flexible spending and health savings accounts, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, legal assistance, and supplemental plans such as pet, critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance. We also provide commuter benefits, family planning and care resources, well-being initiatives, and peer-to-peer recognition programs - demonstrating our ongoing commitment to building a culture where our people feel empowered, supported, and inspired to do their best work.

Eeo Statement

Legend Biotech is a proud equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to attracting, retaining, and maximizing the performance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is Legend’s policy to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, national origin, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, genetic information, citizenship status, uniformed service member or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Employment is at-will and may be terminated at any time with or without cause or notice by the employee or the company. Legend may adjust base salary or other discretionary compensation at any time based on individual, team, performance, or market conditions.

Legend Biotech maintains a drug-free workplace.