The Head of the Genetic and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Research Unit (RU) will serve as the single point of accountability for Research in this area, reporting to the SVP, Head of Research. (S)he will have the following core accountabilities:

• Develop a robust portfolio of preclinical programs focused on Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Genetic Epilepsies and other disorders with a strong genetic component, including those with impact on cognition, using the multiple modalities available to Biogen and ranging in stage from exploratory to pre-IND
• Collaborate with the Therapeutics Development Unit (DU) Head to design and execute a coherent, unified Genetic and Neurodevelopmental Disorders strategy
• Build a world-class research team of ~25 scientists to identify and validate new therapeutic approaches based on cutting-edge human and preclinical data
• Define an optimal combination of internal and external innovation to create a world-leading portfolio. Execute on licensing & partnership opportunities in collaboration with the External Portfolio Innovation Unit and Business Development
• As a member of the Research Leadership Team, provide guidance on overall strategy and drive scientific and operational integration with other RUs and Translational Biology.
• Communicate & champion disease area strategy & portfolio priorities to all levels of the organization within and outside of R&D, as well as externally to Biogen.

Main responsibilities

• Identify and pursue innovative targets for Genetic and Neurodevelopmental Disorders based on high-quality human and experimental data.
• Lead Research teams from early target discovery to IND to create a seamless, innovative and industry-leading pipeline from idea to clinical development
• For each program, define key experiments critical for target validation, and in vitro and in vivo pharmacology, in order to establish a strong case for IND
• Manage and mentor research teams in the RU, as well as R&D Project Leaders, focusing on Biogen elements Pioneering, Agile and Inclusive to most effectively integrate changes in a rapidly evolving environment. Hire A+ talent in the organization and ensure the growth, development, and retention of staff
• Lead Biogen’s external and internal innovation in the Genetic and Neurodevelopmental research space. Partner with Business Development and External Innovation to identify external opportunities
• Work effectively with the Head of Research, and Therapeutics DU Lead, to ensure timely and seamless transition to clinical development for each program

#LI-SK1

• Minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in Genetic Disorders research within academia or pharmaceutical/biotech industry. Prior involvement in clinical development will be an advantage but is not a requirement.
• Recognized internationally for a deep understanding of relevant disease biology
• Strong record of leading teams and demonstrated ability to influence at the Leadership Team level
• Demonstrated ability to attract, develop, and retain talent
• Ability to drive to data-based decisions involving internal and external stakeholders so as to deliver on organizational goals
• Ability to communicate effectively at all levels and present complex and/or new ideas with clarity and simplicity

Education

PhD or MD/PhD in a life science field

As Biogen expands its Neuroscience portfolio, the significance of human genetic data for selecting appropriate targets has become evident, as exemplified by the success of SPINRAZA, our life-changing treatment for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). We now wish to extend that logic to encompass other genetic disorders of the nervous system, with a particular – but not exclusive – focus on Neurodevelopmental Disorders.