Director, Analytical Biochemistry & In vitro Assays

Position Overview

The incumbent will lead a team and provide high level expertise and leadership capacity in Analytical Biochemistry and In vitro assays in support of drug discovery efforts using novel modalities within and external to CSL R&D. This role sits at the interface of discovery research, translational sciences, DMPK, toxicology, clinical pharmacology, CMC and regulatory functions. It requires scientific expertise with multiple modalities across R&D, proven experience working with and managing external academic and industry partners, and leadership skills to drive innovation and ensure the successful discovery and progression of drug candidates.

This is a hybrid position based in Waltham, MA with a minimum of 3 days onsite per week. Relocation and mobility assistance are not provided.

• Leadership and development of a team of senior scientists, fostering innovation and excellence, and developing and executing bioanalytical strategies that support discovery, preclinical and early clinical development programs.
• Support the selection of appropriate therapeutic modalities, most importantly DNA and RNA-based therapies and potentially peptides and vaccines for specific disease targets.
• Lead and participate in external due diligence and provide expert advice on modality suitability and risks.
• Contribute to the Drug Discovery Leadership Team, driving CSL’s drug discovery efforts.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance culture within the team, encouraging innovation and continuous learning.
• Provide strategic direction for research projects, ensuring alignment with overall company goals and objectives.
• Define the bioanalytical strategy across a portfolio of programs and build assays that generate critical efficacy, target engagement, biomarker and immunogenicity data.
• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration among team members and across departments.
• Manage team resources, including budget, personnel and equipment, to optimize productivity and efficiency.
• Lead and manage internal research activities and external projects, including performing wet lab due diligence activities and ensuring necessary resources and expertise.
• Lead and manage research and lifecycle management activities for RNA-based vaccines.
• Oversee the development, optimization and validation of novel analytical methods and in vitro assays, ensuring data generation is robust, reproducible and meets regulatory standards and guidelines.
• Foster collaboration with cross-functional teams to integrate assay data into broader research programs and contribute to the advancement of therapeutic candidates from discovery through to clinical development.
• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies, methodologies and best practices to enhance analytical capabilities and assay performance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, implementing new techniques and technologies to keep the team at the forefront of the field.
• Contribute to the scientific community through publications in peer‑reviewed journals, presentations at conferences and participation in professional organizations.
• Plan, execute and monitor research projects, ensuring efficient use of resources and timely delivery of project milestones and deliverables.
• Develop detailed project plans, including objectives, timelines and risk management strategies.
• Communicate project progress, challenges and outcomes to stakeholders, senior management and external partners.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, guidelines and quality standards throughout the project lifecycle.

• Postgraduate degree (preferably PhD) in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or extensive experience in relevant industry or academic environment – scientific and people leadership.
• 10+ years of experience in analytical biochemistry and in vitro assay development with a proven track record of successful research and development projects.
• Prior experience in a leadership role is essential.
• Experience with novel modalities such as gene therapy, peptides, cell therapy or RNA-based therapeutics and vaccines.
• Strong expertise in analytical method development, validation and regulatory requirements.
• Proven track record of scientific innovation and contribution to the field.
• Demonstrated effective leadership, communication and project management skills.
• Familiarity with advanced analytical techniques and instrumentation such as mass spectrometry.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a cross‑functional and dynamic environment.

The expected base salary range for this position at hiring is $228,000 - $294,000. In addition to base salary, total compensation may include incentive compensation and equity.

CSL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please visit