Chief Scientific Officer

Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to treating, and one day curing, life‑threatening diseases. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, we develop advanced cell therapies across a diverse array of technology platforms, including autologous and allogenic chimeric antigen receptor T‑cell (CAR‑T), T‑cell receptor (TCR‑T), and natural killer (NK) cell‑based immunotherapy. From our three R&D sites worldwide, we apply these innovative technologies to pursue the discovery of safe, efficacious, and cutting‑edge therapeutics for patients worldwide.

Legend Biotech entered into a global collaboration agreement with Janssen, a pharmaceutical company of Johnson & Johnson, to jointly develop and commercialize ciltacabtagene autolecuel (cilta‑cel). Our strategic partnership combines the strengths and expertise of both companies to advance the promise of an immunotherapy for the treatment of multiple myeloma.

Legend Biotech is recruiting a visionary scientist, an accomplished drug hunter, and a skilled organization/business leader as Chief Scientific Officer (CSO). The CSO will lead and oversee the global research strategy and operations, driving the scientific vision and overseeing research activities. The CSO will be responsible for delivering highly innovative and industrial‑leading technology platforms and transformative therapies from initial concept to development candidate.

Reporting to the President of Research and Development, the CSO will integrate all global technological innovation and drug‑discovery strategies and operations to bring cutting‑edge therapies to patients.

Key responsibilities include developing and implementing the company’s scientific strategy, managing the research budget, mentoring scientific staff, and collaborating with stakeholders to bring innovative products and solutions to the market. The CSO will also play a critical role in evaluating new technologies, partnerships, and investment opportunities.

This role requires a deep understanding of scientific principles, strong leadership skills, and the ability to translate complex research into actionable business strategies. The CSO will work closely with executive leadership, product development teams, and external partners to drive innovation and maintain our position at the forefront of cell therapy. The CSO will stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies, foster a culture of impactful innovation and scientific excellence, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in scientific research, preferably with a Ph.D. in a relevant field, and a proven track record of leading successful research programs and delivering multiple compounds into clinical development. They should be skilled at managing global multidisciplinary teams and representing the company in scientific and regulatory forums. This is a high‑impact role that offers the opportunity to shape the future of our organization through scientific leadership and innovation.

• Develop disease‑centric global research strategy and deliver a robust, diversified, and risk‑balanced pipeline of therapeutics.
• Develop and implement global technology and drug discovery plans that align with the company’s business objectives, advancing the company’s pipeline of cell therapies from technology innovation to development candidates.
• Oversee global research programs through key milestones, including technological platform innovation and drug discovery, while efficiently managing resources to meet timelines.
• Manage global research budget and ensure resource allocation aligned with strategic priority and efficient return of investment.
• Drive the identification and evaluation of new technologies, research opportunities, partnerships, collaborations, and licensing opportunities via BD to expand the company’s pipeline and market position.
• Attract, retain, and develop top talent within the global research organization, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence.
• Serve as a key member…