Overview
At Bayer we’re visionaries, driven to solve the world’s toughest challenges and striving for a world where ,Health for all, Hunger for none’ is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We’re doing it with energy, curiosity and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities and redefining ‘impossible’. There are so many reasons to join us. If you’re hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there’s only one choice.
Senior Scientific Director siRNA (m/f/d)
This role is created to advance our pipeline of targeted siRNA-based medicines by conceiving new ideas, steering complex studies and CROs, and serving as the primary advisor and problem-solver for siRNA-related questions across teams. You will be the organization’s key leader for targeted siRNAs topic, translating cutting-edge science into impactful therapeutic opportunities. The purpose of this role is to provide enterprise-level strategic leadership in targeted siRNA therapeutics, positioning you as the key subject matter expert and driving force behind our targeted siRNA drug discovery efforts. You will orchestrate and influence in a matrix team multiple projects involving siRNA – from early research through clinical candidate selection – ensuring technical excellence, innovation, and alignment with broader R&D strategy.
Responsibilities
* Deliver on overall R&D productivity goals by strategic leadership in the siRNA and oligonucleotide modality space ensuring alignment with organisational goals and contributing to portfolio reviews.
* Act as the main expert on siRNA therapeutics in R&D. Coach and mentor project teams for accelerated decision making and project progress
* Collaborate with research teams in Cardiovascular/Renal and Oncology to align siRNA work with development needs. Lead intradisciplinary drug discovery teams towards common goals, plan and execute complex studies, interpret results, and guide next steps, presenting to senior management as needed
* Initiate and maintain external collaborations driving targeted siRNA projects, coordinating with partner companies and CROs to advance RNA therapeutics and ensure project success
* Work with diverse teams to integrate siRNA into drug discovery. Guide teams on assay design and delivery technologies, ensuring alignment across disciplines
* Enhance internal siRNA research capabilities by providing strategic direction. Develop infrastructure and methods, and evaluate new technologies for potential collaboration
* Mentor junior scientists and colleagues, sharing expertise in RNA therapeutics and fostering talent development in your area of expertise
* Initiate new research in siRNA and tissue targeting. Identify opportunities for novel therapeutic approaches and lead innovative projects from concept to proof-of-concept
* Exhibit visionary, architect, coach, and catalyst behaviours. Inspire bold ideas, design strategies, uplift teams, and drive innovation in R&D
Qualifications
* Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or a related field is required. Long-term of industry experience in drug discovery, with a strong focus on siRNA and oligonucleotide pharmaceutical research, including designing siRNA molecules for therapeutic applications and optimising delivery methods
* Extensive knowledge of siRNA and oligonucleotide conjugate biology and technology, including RNA interference mechanisms, siRNA design, chemical modifications, and delivery technologies. Deep knowledge of the siRNA company landscapes and CRO networks. Ability to integrate related disciplines such as genomics and bioinformatics into your work
* Proven track record in targeted siRNA related drug discovery or development from ideation to preclinical candidate selection, with contributions to drug candidates, patents, and high-impact publications. Experience in taking scientific ideas from concept to early therapeutic validation and evidence of innovation in past projects. A drug-hunter mindset is a must-have
* Strong ability to lead interdisciplinary teams towards common goals. Proficient in matrix leadership and project management, including defining plans, milestones, and option spaces for decision making at management level. Mentorship experience is valued
* Ability to translate portfolio and business goals into scientific approaches. Experience in evaluating project success and making data-driven recommendations. Contribution to portfolio strategy is expected
* Excellent communication skills, able to convey complex scientific concepts clearly to senior stakeholders and scientific teams alike. Strong presentation skills and intercultural communication abilities are essential. Fluency in English is required; proficiency in German is advantageous
* Must demonstrate Visionary, Architect, Coach, and Catalyst leadership behaviours. Ability to foresee trends, structure scientific projects, develop others, and drive change. Confidence in handling ambiguity and complexity is expected
Benefits
* Our benefits package is flexible, appreciative, and tailored to your lifestyle, because: What matters to you, matters to us!
* We ensure your financial stability through a competitive compensation package, consisting of an attractive base pay, our performance based company bonus and a global, equity-based cash plan with a four-year duration. In addition, managers can recognize special contributions by granting an individual performance award or top performance award.
* Whether it’s hybrid work models or part-time arrangements: Whenever it is possible, you will have the flexibility to work how, when and where it is best for you.
* Your family is a top priority. We offer loving company daycare centers at multiple locations, support in finding childcare, time off for the care of elderly or dependent family members, summer camps for children, and much more.
* We support your professional growth by providing access to learning and development opportunities, training programs through the Bayer Learning Academy, development dialogues, as well as coaching and mentoring programs.
* We promote health awareness and opportunities for selfcare through various measures, such as free health checks with the company doctor.
* We embrace diversity by providing an inclusive work environment in which you are welcomed, supported, and encouraged to bring your whole self to work.
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