Medical Director Translational medicine

The Medical Director of Translational Medicine will play a critical role in bridging the gap between preclinical research and clinical application. This position involves leading efforts to develop and implement strategies that ensure the effective transition of therapies from the lab to clinical trials. This individual will lead translational aspects of clinical studies, collaborating with cross-functional teams to support translational and experimental medicine.  The role will focus on rare diseases across the therapeutic areas of interest for Alexion.  The ideal candidate will have a strong background in translational medicine, with a focus on rare diseases.

Responsibilities

• Create and execute plans translational science and experimental medicine
• Develop, in collaboration with other members of the cross functional team clinical and scientific aspects of translational studies from preclinical through Proof-of-Concept studies supporting:
  • Human target validation
  • Candidate indication selection
  • Preliminary clinical plan development
• Collaborate with early clinical development leaders within the DRS organization to support the transition from Research to the DRS organization in preparation for IND
• Support the design of early clinical trials through Proof-of-Concept, including experimental medicine studies
• Partner with translational science team to drive connectivity between the research and DRS organizations
• Design and execute translational plans, to support clinical development programs.
• Develop and implement patient enrichment strategies to support the core aspects of the program
• Serve as a scientific and medical expert in translational medicine, providing guidance and insights to internal teams and external partners.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams during the design, execution, and reporting of early-stage clinical trials to ensure that biomarker and other translational data is available at the time of clinical trial result readout.
• Lead or participate in cross-functional working groups and engage in external interactions with academic institutions and scientific experts
• Prepare and review study protocols, clinical study reports, and translational medicine sections of plans, abstracts, and technical reports
• Present results and updates of projects at department, project, corporate, and scientific meetings
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in translational medicine and rare disease research, incorporating new knowledge into ongoing projects.

Qualifications

• A medical degree (MD) or Advanced Degree in Life Sciences is required
• Minimum of 3 years in translational medicine or translational research in an industry setting
• In-depth knowledge in a core specialty area with broad understanding of the wider scope translational medicine diseases is strongly preferred
• Proven competence in clinical therapeutics, drug development, and strategic resource management
• Thorough understanding of FDA and ethical guidelines relevant to the pharmaceutical industry
• Excellent communication skills and ability to interact professionally with individuals at all levels of experience and across worldwide cultures
• Conscientious, enthusiastic team player with excellent collaboration and teamwork abilities
• Strong analytical and evaluative skills
• Proficiency in MS Office and ability to interface effectively with technical platforms for medical information

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.