Lab Head Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Principal Scientist, Lab Head, Integrative Neuroscience

Location: Cambridge, MA

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated scientist to lead a team focused on developing novel therapeutics, with a preference for RNA‑based approaches for neurological disorders. In this role, you will drive biology to identify therapeutic targets and advance these targets through the discovery pipeline by leading multidisciplinary project teams. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in neurological disorders with a particular emphasis on neuropsychiatric, neurodevelopmental, and/or seizure‑related disorders. Experience in RNA‑based therapeutic modalities (siRNA and antisense oligonucleotides) is highly desirable.

• Lead drug development programs by managing timelines, defining key scientific questions, and ensuring team focus.
• Establish in vitro and in vivo models for molecule testing, biomarker discovery, and exploratory biology.
• Interrogate human datasets to identify novel pathways and targets, and collaborate with platform teams to apply cutting‑edge genetic and genomic approaches for target credentialing.
• Contribute to programs using diverse therapeutic modalities, with an emphasis on gene knockdown/splicing technologies (e.g., siRNA and ASOs).
• Mentor team members, provide strategic and day‑to‑day guidance, and support laboratory execution.
• Perform laboratory experiments in partnership with team members.
• Implement AI into screening, experimental, and analysis workflows to accelerate discovery work.
• Collaborate effectively within matrixed, dynamic, and cross‑functional teams across the Neurology therapeutic area, platform groups, and external partners.
• Build and maintain a robust external scientific network to support portfolio advancement, collaborations, licensing opportunities, and business development activities.
• Compile, present, and clearly communicate scientific progress to internal stakeholders, leadership, and external audiences.
• Publish scientific findings in peer‑reviewed journals and present results at scientific conferences.

Education:

• Ph.D. in neuroscience, neuropsychiatry, neurodevelopmental disorders, or a related field.
• A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a drug development setting.

Experience & Technical Skills:

• Prior drug development experience with RNA‑based therapeutics. Knowledge of RNA conjugation, design, and delivery technologies.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in neuropsychiatry and/or developmental disorders, including epilepsy.
• Understanding of ion channel biology and technical experience evaluating ion channel function.
• Ability to apply AI‑based approaches to drug discovery.
• Demonstrated scientific creativity and productivity, evidenced by impactful publications in neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, or epilepsy‑related disorders.
• Deep expertise in cell‑based disease models, including iPSC‑derived, primary neuronal systems, and complex co‑culture models.
• Strong understanding of in vivo pharmacology in rodents and/or non‑human primates. Direct hands‑on experience preferred.
• Ability to effectively define experimental goals and communicate scientific progress with colleagues and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent analytical, presentation, and scientific writing skills.

Sanofi Inc. and its U.S. affiliates are Equal Opportunity and affirmative action employers committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital status, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.

The salary range for this position is:

$122.250,00 – $176.583,33

All compensation will be determined commensurate with demonstrated experience. Employees may be eligible to participate in company benefit programs. Additional benefits information can be found through the company website.