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$70.9K

$176.2K

$232.9K

How much do research and development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development director in Boston, MA is $176,238.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,200.00 and $210,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Research and Development director do?

A Research and Development (R&D) Director leads innovation efforts within a company by overseeing the development of new products, technologies, or processes. They manage research teams, set strategic goals, and ensure projects align with business objectives. Additionally, they analyze market trends, collaborate with other departments, and allocate resources efficiently. Their role is crucial in maintaining a company’s competitive edge through innovation and continuous improvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research and Development director?

To excel as a Research And Development Director, you typically need a solid background in science or engineering, advanced degrees (often a master's or Ph.D.), and substantial experience leading multidisciplinary teams in innovation-focused environments. Familiarity with research management tools, project management software, IP management systems, and relevant industry certifications is highly valued. Outstanding communication, strategic thinking, and leadership skills help drive cross-functional collaboration and long-term vision. These competencies are essential for steering projects from concept to commercialization, ensuring organizational growth and competitive advantage.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Research and Development director, and how can you address them?

Research and Development Directors often encounter challenges balancing innovative exploration with practical business objectives, managing resource constraints, and leading teams with diverse technical backgrounds. Successfully addressing these challenges involves setting clear priorities, encouraging open communication, and staying agile in response to shifting market or regulatory demands. Effective R&D Directors also foster a creative, solution-oriented environment and collaborate closely with other departments like marketing, production, and finance to align projects with company goals. By navigating these complexities, you can contribute significantly to driving product innovation and organizational success.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research And Development jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Research And Development jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Director jobs in Boston, MA?

For Research And Development Director jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research And Development Director jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Research And Development Director jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Research And Development Director jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Research And Development Director job openings:

Research And Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Director job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $176,238 per year, or $84.7 per hour.

Clinical Research & Development Director

AstraZeneca

Waltham, MA

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

AstraZeneca rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 86 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

What You Will Do

Externally recognized as a thought leader with deepexpertisein both clinical research and developmentwith deep understanding of autoimmune disease, specifically inflammatory myopathies,JIAand/or Sjogren's disease. Knowledge andexpertisein cell therapy is a plus.Drivethe integrated clinical research and development strategy and execution,to ensurevalue creation and regulatory/market success through innovative, cross-functional leadership. Operate independently and at scale, influencing both operational excellence and strategic direction at the highest organizational levels.

TypicalAccountabilities

Develop and align strategies andobjectivesfor Clinical Research & Development, ensuring they support AstraZeneca's global goals and product vision.
Lead and overseeexecution and delivery of clinical research & development studies, ensuring scientific rigor, commercial viability, and patient-centric focus throughout the drug lifecycle.
Lead the work with Line Managers toidentifyresource need and secure resources to ensure flexible andtimelyformation of the Clinical Research & Development Teams and progression of deliverables
Provide strategic and operational input to ensure implementation of best practices,new technologies, processes, and global clinical strategies.
Manage resource planning in collaboration with line managers, securing talent and flexible teams to support dynamic project requirements.
Oversee budgeting, timelines, contingency and risk management planning, and escalate operational or strategic issues as appropriate.
Lead the negotiation and management of contracts with CROs and external service providers.
Drive the preparation, review, and delivery of regulatory submission materials and activelyparticipatesin regulatorydefense/approval processes.
Has personal responsibility for creating a culture of courageous leadership,creativityand collaboration
Mentor, develop, and manage performance of line management and project teams, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and fostering succession planning.
Ensure all work is compliant with internal and external standards, including Safety, Health, Environment, and regulatory guidelines.

QualificationsandSkills

  • Essential:Advanced degree (Master's, PhD, or equivalent) in a scientific, medical, or health-related discipline;Extensive experience in both clinical research and clinical development within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry;Familiarity with the scientific and clinical community;Proven leadership experience managing cross-functional and/or senior project teams;Demonstrated success in strategy development and execution in both clinical research and clinical development environments;Strong knowledge of the drug development process, GCP/ICH guidelines, and relevant regulatory requirements;Significant operational experience in the planning, delivery, and oversight of clinical trials and regulatory submissions;Budgetary, resource, and risk management expertise on a global or regional scale;Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and ability to present to diverse stakeholders;Demonstrated ability to mentor, develop, and lead teams;Highly skilled in stakeholder engagement, negotiation, strategic influencing, and cross-functionalcollaboration;Commitment to compliance and safety, health, and environmental standards;Ability and willingness to travel nationally and internationally as required

  • Desirable:Experience as a recognized expert or thought leader within the business and wider industry;Project management certification or formal training;Experience in the introduction or implementation of new technologies or innovative approaches within clinical research or development;Experience in change management and process improvement initiatives;Experience managing complex organizational structures or leading in a global organizational context;Extensive familiarity with key therapeutic areas relevant to AstraZeneca's portfolio;Record of effective succession planning and leadership development within multi-level teams;Experience in successful regulatory defense and participation in external advisory boards or similar expert panels;Advanced negotiation and contracting experience with CROs or external service providers;Ability to identify and leverage emerging trends in drug development, technology, and scientific innovation

Key Relationship toReachSolutions

  • Internal:Study Delivery personnel; Data Management Centre representatives; Clinical Project Team and therapy area personnel; Clinical Development personnel; Clinical Pharmacology Units; Study Site personnel; Regional Monitoring personnel; Other SkillCentresas appropriate

  • External:External service providers;Investigators and scientists and patient advocacy groups; and external Alliance partners

Date Posted

25-Aug-2026

Closing Date

10-Sep-2026

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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About AstraZeneca

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases. But we're more than one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. A place built on courage, curiosity and collaboration - we make bold decisions driven by patient outcomes. Empowered to lead at every level, free to ask questions and take smart risks that write the next chapter for our pipeline and Oncology team. Make a meaningful impact that brings real benefits to society. By applying your knowledge of data, you will help to redefine our industry and ultimately save lives. Work with experts who share a common goal: to accelerate the potential of medicines and the science of tomorrow.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers and pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, GB

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