Senior Distinguished Scientist for Transgenic Model and Technology

Job title: Senior Distinguished Scientist for Transgenic Model and Technology

Location: Cambridge, MA

About the job

The Translational In Vivo Models (TIM) department within Sanofi's R&D is seeking an exceptional Senior Distinguished Scientist to lead our Transgenic Model & Technology (TMT) function globally. This strategic leadership role will drive innovation in genome engineering and genetically modified model development to accelerate drug discovery across all therapeutic divisions.

As the Global Head of Transgenic Biology, you will ensure our organization remains at the forefront of technical developments in genome engineering, enabling breakthrough discoveries in immunology, immuno-inflammation, rare diseases, neuroscience, and oncology. You will serve as a key scientific advisor and strategic thinker, shaping the direction of in vivo and preclinical research programs while championing the integration of emerging technologies — including AI and digital platforms — into transgenic science.

This role is based in Cambridge, MA and is primarily office/lab-based with some scope for flexible remote working.

Key Responsibilities

Scientific Leadership & Innovation

Lead and advance state-of-the-art genome engineering techniques and mouse genetics applications for in vivo model development supporting discovery and developmental research

Apply personal expertise in transgenesis and CRISPR technology to devise and execute sophisticated experimental strategies for target validation, proof-of-concept, and efficacy studies

Identify, evaluate, and implement new technologies and innovations in transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas systems, and emerging genome engineering platforms

Serve as a strategic thinker and scientific advisor to research projects across therapeutic areas, providing expert guidance on in vivo and preclinical study design

Champion the integration of AI and digital technologies to enhance model design, data analysis, and predictive capabilities in transgenic research

Cover a broad scientific scope including immunology and immuno-inflammation, rare diseases, neuroscience, molecular and immune-oncology, and all areas of cell and molecular biology pertaining to immunology and immune-oncology

Strategic Planning & Cross-Functional Leadership

Demonstrate strategic thinking and orientation in aligning transgenic capabilities with organizational research priorities and long-term scientific goals

Lead and coordinate transversal teams and projects across multiple therapeutic divisions, sites, and external partners

Collaborate closely with the Head of Transgenic Division, drug discovery program leaders, cluster heads, and department heads to provide strategic scientific advice

Drive budget planning, forecasting, and financial management to optimize resource allocation and operational efficiency

Operational Excellence & Partnership Management

Establish and maintain comprehensive project management frameworks ensuring full-service delivery from model design through study-ready animal production

Build and manage strategic relationships with model providers, CROs, and academic partners for development and delivery of genetically modified models

Negotiate and oversee license agreements and partnership contracts for model acquisition and technology access

Implement quality standards and continuous improvement initiatives to maintain operational excellence

People Leadership & Development

Supervise, mentor, and develop staff members to build a high-performing team at the forefront of transgenic science

Participate in talent management decisions including hiring, promotions, performance evaluations, and organizational development

Foster a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning

Minimum Education and Experience Required

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Developmental Biology, or a related discipline

Extensive post-doctoral or industry experience in mouse molecular genetics and transgenic animal model development

Demonstrated track record of scientific leadership in an academic or pharmaceutical/biotech research environment

Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated, hands-on experience performing this role.

Additional Qualifications

Technical Expertise

Deep expertise in developing transgenic animal models, including engineering diverse genetic alleles using CRISPR/Cas9, Cas12, base editors, prime editors, and other advanced genome engineering systems

Comprehensive knowledge of both theoretical principles and practical methodologies required to lead a state-of-the-art transgenic facility

Strong foundation in molecular biology, mouse genetics, embryology, and reproductive technologies

Experience across multiple therapeutic areas (immunology, oncology, rare diseases, neuroscience preferred)

Leadership & Strategic Capabilities

Proven strategic thinking and orientation with ability to align scientific capabilities with business objectives

Demonstrated success leading transversal teams and managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects across sites and functions

Established track record as a scientific thinker and advisor to in vivo and preclinical research programs

Experience identifying, evaluating, and implementing new technologies and innovations in a research setting

Familiarity with and application of AI and digital technologies in biological research, model design, and data analysis

Professional Skills

Exceptional project management skills with ability to oversee multiple concurrent initiatives

Strong contract negotiation and vendor management capabilities

Excellent budget planning, financial management, and resource allocation skills

Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) for effective collaboration across diverse, global stakeholders

Proven ability to work in matrix organizations and influence without direct authority

Personal Attributes

Self-motivated with demonstrated ability to lead and thrive in collaborative team environments

Comfortable managing competing priorities and adapting to dynamic research needs

Commitment to scientific excellence, integrity, and ethical research practices

Passion for mentoring and developing scientific talent

Candidates must be willing to travel as part of this position.

What We Offer

Opportunity to shape the future of transgenic technology at a global biopharmaceutical leader

Access to cutting-edge technologies and resources across a world-class R&D organization

Collaborative, innovative research environment spanning multiple therapeutic areas

Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package

Professional development and career growth opportunities

Flexible work arrangements supporting work-life balance

Why Choose Us?

Bring the miracles of science to life alongside a supportive, future-focused team.

Discover endless opportunities to grow your talent and drive your career, whether it’s through a promotion or lateral move, at home or internationally.

Enjoy a thoughtful, well-crafted rewards package that recognizes your contribution and amplifies your impact.

Take good care of yourself and your family, with a wide range of health and wellbeing benefits including high-quality healthcare, prevention and wellness programs and at least 14 weeks’ gender-neutral parental leave.

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All compensation will be determined commensurate with demonstrated experience. Employees may be eligible to participate in Company employee benefit programs, and additional benefits information can be found here.