Principal Scientist, Ophthalmology Research

** Principal Scientist, Ophthalmology Research*
* ** About Astellas*
* Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at

** Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?*
* We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

** Purpose & Scope*
* The Principal Scientist, Ophthalmology Research is a scientific leader responsible for designing, executing, and interpreting in vivo ophthalmology research to advance therapeutic programs from discovery through candidate nomination and early development. The incumbent will generate high-quality data that inform strategic program decisions while serving as a key contributor within cross-functional and external collaborations. This is a hands-on laboratory role requiring the scientist to lead from the bench, while mentoring/managing a small team of junior colleagues and fostering a highly collaborative and inclusive broader team environment.

** Role and Responsibilities*
* + Design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret in vivo pharmacology studies to evaluate therapeutic candidates across ophthalmology indications and therapeutic modalities.

+ Lead from the bench by personally contributing to the execution of in vivo studies while providing technical and scientific leadership to project teams.

+ Develop and test hypotheses through integration of available in vitro and in vivo data, generating insights that inform program strategy, candidate selection, and go/no-go decisions.

+ Lead and coordinate interdisciplinary research efforts, including collaborations with internal stakeholders, external partners, and contract research organizations, to ensure high-quality and timely execution of studies.

+ Design and implement translational research strategies that advance understanding of disease biology, mechanism of action, pharmacology, and therapeutic efficacy.

+ Contribute to the generation of preclinical data packages supporting internal program milestones and regulatory submissions to health authorities.

+ Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and scientifically rigorous working environment by building strong cross-functional relationships, openly sharing knowledge, mentoring colleagues, and contributing positively to team culture.

+ Maintain accurate experimental records and effectively communicate scientific findings internally through presentations, reports, and cross-functional discussions.

+ Remain current with scientific literature, emerging technologies, and advances in ophthalmology and drug discovery to identify new opportunities and approaches.

** Required Qualifications*
* + PhD in Ophthalmology, Neuroscience, Biology, Pharmacology, or a related scientific discipline with 8+ years of relevant postdoctoral and/or industry research experience.

+ Deep expertise in ophthalmic research, including retinal/ocular disease biology, and a strong track record of advancing scientific programs.

+ Significant hands-on experience designing, conducting, and interpreting in vivo ophthalmology studies to support drug discovery, translational research, and/or early development.

+ Experience evaluating one or more therapeutic modalities, including small molecules, biologics, gene therapies, cell therapies, or RNA-based therapeutics.

+ Strong technical expertise in ocular imaging, visual function testing, and histological evaluation of ocular tissues; this includes techniques such as OCT, fundus imaging, ERG, vision-dependent behavior assays (e.g. optomotor response), and retinal histology/histopathology.

+ Demonstrated ability to independently develop study strategies, solve complex scientific problems, and translate data into actionable program…