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Director Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

MSD

Director, Scientific Affairs

Rockville, MD · On-site +1

$174.10K - $272.10K/yr

Keep abreast of scientific and competitor advancements in the marketplace. Share expertise and best practices with internal clients, peers, and others across the company as appropriate. * Gather and ...

MSD

Director, Scientific Affairs

Rockville, MD · On-site +1

$174.10K - $272.10K/yr

Keep abreast of scientific and competitor advancements in the marketplace. Share expertise and best practices with internal clients, peers, and others across the company as appropriate. * Gather and ...

Gartner

Director, Data Science

Arlington, VA · Remote

The Director, Data Science will lead efforts across personalization, recommendation systems, and GenAI chatbot tools, delivering scalable intelligence that drives hyper-personalized experiences and ...

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$91.2K

$126.7K

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How much do director science jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for director science in Washington is $126,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $141,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Science, you need an advanced degree in a scientific discipline, extensive research experience, and strong leadership abilities. Familiarity with data analysis software, scientific publishing tools, and project management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and team-building skills help drive innovation and foster collaboration among interdisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for setting research direction, achieving organizational goals, and ensuring scientific excellence.

What are the primary challenges a Director of Science faces when leading multidisciplinary research teams?

A Director of Science often navigates the complexities of coordinating experts from various scientific backgrounds, ensuring effective communication and integration of diverse perspectives. Balancing project timelines with the rigorous standards of scientific research can be demanding, especially when managing multiple projects simultaneously. Additionally, securing funding and aligning research objectives with organizational goals require strategic planning and stakeholder management. Building a collaborative culture and fostering professional development within the team are also essential for long-term success.

What does a Director of Science do?

A Director of Science leads and oversees scientific research and development within an organization, ensuring projects align with strategic goals. They manage scientific teams, set research priorities, and often collaborate with other departments or external partners. This role involves supervising experiments, securing funding, and ensuring compliance with regulations and ethical standards. Directors of Science also play a key role in translating scientific findings into practical applications or products. Their leadership is crucial for driving innovation and maintaining the organization's scientific excellence.

What is the difference between Director Science vs Research Scientist?

AspectDirector ScienceResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD), leadership experienceTypically PhD or Master's, specialized research skills
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, team management, cross-department collaborationLaboratory or field research, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, research institutionsAcademic, industry R&D, government labs

The main difference between a Director Science and a Research Scientist lies in their focus and responsibilities. Directors Science oversee research strategies, manage teams, and coordinate projects, while Research Scientists conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to scientific knowledge. Both roles require advanced degrees, but Directors have more leadership and strategic duties.

What are the most commonly searched types of Science jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Science jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Director Science jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Director Science job openings:
Director Science jobs near you
Director - Science Communications and Engagement, Late CVRM

Director - Science Communications and Engagement, Late CVRM

AstraZeneca

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

AstraZeneca rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 70 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

Are you passionate about scientific communication? If so, we are looking for you!
As a Director of Science Communications and Engagement for our Late-stage Cardiovascular, Renal, Metabolism (CVRM) therapeutic area you will be responsible for crafting, developing, and executing impactful communication strategies and materials that inspire our teams and stakeholders. This is both a strategic and operational role.
With your unique blend of scientific expertise and strategic communication skills, you will play a pivotal role in showcasing our innovative science and positioning our CVRM therapy area strategy and projects. Collaborating closely with cross-functional partners in R&D Communications, Global Corporate Affairs, Medical Affairs, and Commercial, you will drive internal and external engagement, reporting, and scientific event planning.
What you'll do
  • Define and implement the internal communication strategy.

  • Work closely with the Senior Vice President of Late CVRM and Head of Business Planning & Operations to develop content and materials for internal and external meetings, conferences, as well as key presentations.

  • Define and implement the internal communications and engagement strategy for Late CVRM, aligning with key stakeholders across AstraZeneca.

  • Liaise with the Late CVRM leadership team to develop strategic communication plans for disease areas and projects.

  • Contribute to monthly reports, town halls, and presentations for the AstraZeneca Board, ensuring the effective communication of our CVRM story.

  • Deliver high-quality, engaging events and broadcasts (e.g., town halls) to bring the Late CVRM narrative to life.

  • Drive the development and communication of science, disease area, and project stories to showcase our innovative science and research, both internally and externally.

  • Facilitate the creation of relevant content for the Late CVRM internal website and support the communication of scorecard updates.

  • Foster a culture of community building and best practice sharing within the Late CVRM team.

As the Director - Scientific Communications and Engagement for Late CVRM, you will combine your scientific background with your excellent ability to express science and complex data in a clear and aesthetic way for effective and compelling communication.
Basic Qualifications:
  • BS, Master's or PhD in a scientific discipline within the life sciences

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate science and influence both internal and external stakeholders, including senior management
  • Passion for scientific communication and a talent for translating complex information into clear, compelling narratives fit for the audience.
  • Demonstrated ability to engage, influence, and collaborate across organizational boundaries with a delivery-focused, problem-solving mindset
  • Comprehensive understanding of the pharmaceutical drug discovery and development process
  • In-depth scientific knowledge in the CVRM therapeutic area
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Agile and adaptable, with a keen eye for detail and a focus on delivering high-quality work
  • Collaborative spirit and a proven ability to work effectively in a global, matrix research environment
  • Strong analytical skills and a proven track record of delivering on business goals within defined timelines

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $146,716- $220,075 USD. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program. Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility.
Join us in our unique and bold world.
Date Posted
12-Mar-2026
Closing Date
Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.

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