Director - Oncology Research
Amgen
Summary
Amgen is a leader in the discovery and development of innovative cancer therapeutics. The Oncology Research team seeks a Director of Research to develop and lead a portfolio of antibody-based therapeutics for solid tumors. In this role, you will work cross-functionally to implement and advance next-generation approaches for cancer therapeutics.
Job description
The ideal candidate will have direct experience leading oncology T-cell engager programs from discovery to development candidate nomination, with experience using translational biology approaches to inform clinical development. A deep and broad understanding of cancer cell biology, including human genetics, cell growth signaling pathways, mechanisms of response and resistance, and translational pharmacology will be essential.
You will be responsible to lead project teams and external collaborations, as well as to inspire and develop a creative, dedicated research team. You will be an exceptional scientific leader who can translate strategy to execution in a fast-paced, changing matrixed environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead preclinical research for T cell engager focused on identification of novel target opportunities, prioritization of discovery investments, and implementation of next-generation target discovery approaches.
- Build and lead a portfolio of innovative research programs focused on bispecific antibodies.
- Lead a team of project leaders and lab-based scientists to create an inclusive high-performing environment that enables new target discovery, rigorous science and efficient execution.
- Lead cross-functional teams and engage key internal partners to integrate tumor biology, target validation, translational research, therapeutic modality considerations, and portfolio strategy.
- Establish productive external scientific collaborations and contribute to evaluation of external opportunities, including business development diligence.
- Partner effectively with peers across research and development to advance new science and integrate technology with tumor cell biology, including application of AI/ML approaches to target and biology evaluation.
Requirements
- Doctorate degree in Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, or related field and 4 years of directly related experience OR Master's degree and 8 years of directly related experience OR Bachelor's degree and 10 years of directly related experience
- At least 4 years experience directly managing people and/or leadership experience leading teams, projects, programs, or directing the allocation of resources
- Direct experience leading oncology T-cell engager programs from discovery to development candidate nomination
- Experience using translational biology approaches to inform clinical development
- Deep and broad understanding of cancer cell biology, including human genetics, cell growth signaling pathways, mechanisms of response and resistance, and translational pharmacology
- Preferred: Doctoral degree in Cancer Biology, Cell Biology or related field with at least 12 years industry experience following completion of postdoctoral training
- Preferred: Demonstrated experience leading drug discovery and development programs through IND/CTA-enabling activities
- Preferred: Strong experience in large-molecule therapeutics and understanding of preclinical data sets required for development candidate nomination
- Preferred: Deep understanding of oncology and tumor biology; expertise in NSCLC or lung cancer biology is strongly preferred
- Preferred: Knowledge of antibody engineering approaches, with direct experience designing and evaluating modalities including T-cell engagers and antibody-drug conjugates
- Preferred: Established record of building, mentoring, and leading high-performing research teams
- Preferred: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to synthesize complex data into clear strategic recommendations
- Preferred: Demonstrated scientific impact through publications, patents, invited presentations, or other external recognition
- Preferred: Demonstrated ability to use AI/ML to accelerate research and translational biology
Benefits
- Retirement and Savings Plan
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Annual Bonus Program
- Stock-Based Long-Term Incentives
- Paid Time Off
- Flexible Work Models
Company overview
Amgen Inc. is a leading American multinational biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Thousand Oaks, California, founded in 1980. As one of the world's largest independent biotechnology companies, Amgen specializes in discovering, developing, manufacturing, and delivering innovative human therapeutics. The company focuses on six key therapeutic areas: inflammation, oncology/hematology, bone health, cardiovascular disease, nephrology, and neuroscience. Amgen's portfolio includes blockbuster drugs such as Enbrel for autoimmune diseases, Prolia and XGEVA for osteoporosis, Repatha for cholesterol management, Otezla for psoriasis, and Neulasta for chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. With approximately 28,000 employees worldwide, Amgen operates as a component of both the Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq-100 indices. The company maintains a robust research and development pipeline with numerous clinical programs across various stages, leveraging cutting-edge biotechnology and human genetic data to address some of the world's most challenging diseases. Amgen's manufacturing capabilities span multiple global locations, and it distributes products through pharmaceutical wholesale distributors and direct-to-consumer channels.