Head, Target Validation & Exploratory Biology

Do you want to be part of an inclusive team that works to develop innovative therapies for patients? Every day, we are driven to develop and deliver innovative and effective new medicines to patients and physicians. If you want to be part of this exciting work, you belong at Astellas!

Astellas Pharma Inc. is a pharmaceutical company conducting business in more than 70 countries around the world. We are committed to turning innovative science into medical solutions that bring value and hope to patients and their families. Keeping our focus on addressing unmet medical needs and conducting our business with ethics and integrity enables us to improve the health of people throughout the world. For more information on Astellas, please visit our website at www.astellas.com.

This position is based in Northbrook, Illinois. Hybrid work from certain states may be permitted in accordance with Astellas' Responsible Flexibility Guidelines. Candidates interested in hybrid work are encouraged to apply.

Purpose:

As the Head, Target Validation & Exploratory Biology this role will be responsible for validation of novel and emerging targets explored in the US, providing high quality data packages to advance projects primarily focusing on in vitro experimentation. Integration of cutting-edge genomic technologies and data science will be expected. Close partnership with colleagues in Japan is expected.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

• Lead Target Validation & Exploratory Biology small team of ~ 5 FTEs responsible for validation of novel and emerging targets; Providing high quality data packages to advance projects primarily focusing on in vitro experimentation.
• Integration of cutting-edge genomic technologies and data science will be expected.
• Continuously assess emerging scientific and technological advancements to shape the future direction of I-Labs in the area of target discovery and validation and use of genomic technologies.
• Foster a collaborative, transparent, and creative team environment that drives innovation and invention. Close partnership with colleagues in Japan is expected.
• Manage team priorities, resources, and investments in alignment with the company's overall I-Lab strategy and objectives.

Qualifications Required:

• Advanced degree (PhD) in Life Sciences or related field. Postdoctoral training highly preferred.
• More than 10 years of drug discovery experience in pharma/biotech with interdisciplinary global experience, including strategy and execution, and matrix team management
• Deep understanding of advancements in drug discovery, emerging technologies, and industry trends, and experience applying this knowledge to enhance research strategies.
• Prior experience leading a wet lab Target Validation group in pharma is highly preferred
• Deep expertise in genomic technologies including genome-wide siRNA and CRISPR screens and deep expertise in data science, informatics and implementation of AI technologies is highly preferred.
• Proven ability to respectfully challenge and influence senior leaders.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to provide strategic direction and drive results.
• Proven ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Leadership experience leading 5-10+ FTE organizations

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong communication and influencing skills
• Highly collaborative win-win mindset is essential

Working Environment:

• This position is based in Cambridge, MA and will require on-site work.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year-end shut down
• 401(k) match and annual company contribution
• Company paid life insurance
• Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions
• Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions
• Referral bonus program

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