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Science Leadership Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Merck Group

Head of Science Operations

Billerica, MA · On-site

Reporting directly to the head of AIDD, this is a senior scientific leadership role with direct responsibility for a team of medicinal and synthetic chemists, biologists, and automation scientists.

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All JobsScience Leadership JobsScience Leadership Jobs in Boston, MA

Science Leadership information

See Boston, MA salary details

$87.5K

$121.5K

$156.4K

How much do science leadership jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for science leadership in Boston, MA is $121,542.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,500.00 and $135,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is science leadership?

Science leadership refers to the roles and responsibilities of individuals who guide scientific research, innovation, and policy within organizations or institutions. Science leaders often direct research teams, manage projects, secure funding, and help set scientific priorities. They play a key role in fostering collaboration, mentoring junior scientists, and ensuring ethical standards. Effective science leaders also communicate scientific findings to stakeholders and the public, influencing the direction of scientific advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in science leadership?

To thrive in Science Leadership, you need a strong background in a scientific discipline, experience in research management, and often an advanced degree such as a PhD. Familiarity with data analysis software, project management tools, and grant-writing systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and team-building abilities set outstanding science leaders apart. These competencies enable effective guidance of research teams, secure funding, and foster innovation in scientific organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in science leadership roles, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in Science Leadership roles often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative duties with scientific research, managing interdisciplinary teams, and ensuring clear communication across departments. Navigating conflicting priorities and fostering an environment that encourages innovation while maintaining project timelines are also frequent hurdles. These challenges can be effectively managed by developing strong organizational skills, delegating responsibilities appropriately, and promoting open, transparent communication within the team. Additionally, ongoing leadership training and mentorship can help cultivate the skills needed to address both scientific and managerial aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Science Leadership vs Research Scientist?

AspectScience LeadershipResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD), leadership experienceTypically PhD or Master's, specialized research skills
Work EnvironmentManagement, strategic planning, team oversightLaboratory or field research, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, academiaUniversities, research labs, industry R&D
Common Search & ComparisonLeadership roles in scienceHands-on research roles

Science Leadership involves managing teams, setting research strategies, and overseeing projects, often requiring leadership experience and advanced degrees. Research Scientists focus on conducting experiments, analyzing data, and advancing scientific knowledge through hands-on research. While both roles are integral to scientific progress, Science Leadership emphasizes management and strategic planning, whereas Research Scientists concentrate on experimental work.

What are popular job titles related to Science Leadership jobs in Boston, MA?

For Science Leadership jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Science Leadership jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Science Leadership jobs in Boston, MA are:

Science Leadership jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science Leadership job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $121,542 per year, or $58.4 per hour.

Senior Director of Clinical Science - Lung

Scorpion Therapeutics

Boston, MA • On-site

$230 - $340/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Senior Director, Clinical Science – LungResponsibilities
  • Provide strategic Clinical Science leadership across lung disease area (multiple studies/programs/assets).
  • Contribute to disease area strategy with input on development opportunities, scientific considerations, portfolio risks, and emerging data.
  • Apply lung cancer expertise to guide study planning, data interpretation, and issue resolution; integrate insights across studies/assets.
  • Standardize Clinical Science approaches (medical data review practices, data interpretation principles, key deliverables) and align scientific approaches across the portfolio.
  • Provide senior scientific guidance for protocol development/amendments, study design, endpoints, eligibility, and biomarker strategy; serve as lung subject matter resource.
  • Contribute to portfolio governance and senior leadership reviews.
  • Lead and develop Clinical Science talent (may manage Directors/Principal Scientists/Clinical Scientists).
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, company policies, and procedures; support inspection readiness.
  • Partner with Clinical Operations, Regulatory Affairs, Biostatistics/Data Management, Drug Safety/Pharmacovigilance, Translational Medicine, Medical Affairs, and others.
Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (PhD or PharmD) + at least 7 years lung oncology drug development experience; OR Master’s in life sciences + 12 years.
  • Significant clinical development/clinical science/oncology development experience in pharma/biotech; demonstrated Clinical Science leadership across studies/programs/assets.
  • Strong lung cancer disease biology and treatment landscape knowledge; clinical trial design and oncology data review/interpretation experience.
Required Skills
  • Change agility; Clinical Development; Clinical Oncology; Clinical Reporting; Clinical Research; Clinical Sciences; Clinical Study/Trial Management; Medical Sciences; Oncology; People Leadership.
Benefits (if applicable)
  • Annual bonus and long-term incentive; medical/dental/vision, retirement (401(k)), paid holidays, vacation, compassionate and sick days.
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