Sr. Principal Scientist, Clinical Operations Immunology Lead

Job Description

Translational Medicine (TMed) drives early clinical development of novel therapeutics by partnering with Discovery Sciences and Late-Stage Clinical Research to translate scientific discoveries into human proof-of-concept and advance the most promising candidates through the pipeline to patients. Our Clinical and Operations organization designs and executes clinical pharmacology strategies spanning first-in-human studies through proof-of-biology/proof-of-concept and into late-stage development, supporting worldwide marketing applications and lifecycle management.

• Take a clinical operations leadership role at the intersection of discovery and clinical development to advance novel immunology therapeutics from bench to bedside.
• Influence strategy, build teams, and deliver high-impact clinical programs that shape the future of patient care.

• Co‑own and execute the early clinical development strategy for the immunology portfolio with the Head of TMed Immunology.
• Provide comprehensive strategic planning and operational oversight for immunology clinical programs and trials to maximize operational feasibility, efficiency, and ensure consistency and quality across the portfolio.
• Build global network of immunology sites and foster relationships with key investigators for Phase 1b/2a patient trials to deliver on clinical program goals.
• Serve as the deep subject‑matter expert and issue escalation point for early immunology clinical operations.
• Ensure appropriate resources, competencies, and partnerships are in place to meet objectives.
• Critically review strategy and clinical program documents (development plans, investigator’s brochures, protocols, etc.), providing scientific and operational insight to ensure best path forward.
• Partner with Business Development and Licensing to evaluate internal and external opportunities that align with portfolio strategy.
• Actively participate in annual and quarterly planning cycles: identify risks, develop and execute mitigation plans, and track performance metrics and outcomes.
• Ensure immunology data integrity across organization (Book of Business, CTMS, etc.).
• Build and sustain strong cross‑functional relationships (country operations, clinical supplies, data management, regulatory, etc.) across departments, divisions, and geographies.
• Foster the people pipeline: attract, coach, mentor, and retain talent; provide performance management support; act as “player‑coach” to enrich group skillsets. Potential for people management.
• Represent TMed on enterprise strategic initiatives and lead continuous‑improvement efforts that increase clinical efficiency and scientific impact.
• Serve as a member of the TMed Clinical Operations leadership team and contribute to shaping department strategy.

• Degree in Life Sciences with one of the following experience combinations:
• Bachelor’s degree + ≥16 years related experience, OR
• Master’s degree + ≥15 years related experience, OR
• PhD/PharmD + ≥12 years related experience
• Related Experience Includes: pharmaceutical industry roles in clinical drug development, clinical trial management, clinical site monitoring/training, medical/regulatory writing, or translational science

• Extensive clinical operations experience in the planning and execution of early clinical development trials (Phase 1 and early proof‑of‑concept).
• Demonstrated ability to translate knowledge to other areas to effectively collaborate, network, and influence peers, senior leaders, and external partners.
• Proven track record building and leading high‑performing cross‑functional teams in a matrixed environment.
• Strong decision‑making skills, weighing advantages, disadvantages, and business impact for rapid decisions and proven track record delivering results on firm deadlines.
• Ability to work successfully with ambiguity and embrace uncertainty.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Experience attracting, developing, and retaining talent.

• Experience leading clinical programs and trials for gastroenterology, dermatology, and/or rheumatology, especially autoimmune or…