Head of Precision Medicine

The businesses of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany•Billerica, MA

About The Position

Your role: As the Vice President of Precision Medicine, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and leading our precision medicine strategies within Research and Development. This strategic leadership position within the Clinical Measurement Sciences (CMS) organization will integrate advanced biomarker technologies, companion diagnostics (CDx), and digital innovations to enhance patient-centric solutions throughout the drug development lifecycle. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams across R&D, Medical, and Commercial to ensure the successful implementation of precision medicine initiatives across our portfolio.

Requirements

An advanced scientific degree (PhD, MD, PharmD) in molecular biology, biomedical informatics, genetics, or a related field.
At least 15 years of experience in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry, focusing on biomarker development, CDx, and translational medicine, including a minimum of 5 years in a leadership role managing multi-disciplinary teams.
Proven success in leading biomarkers or CDx through regulatory approval and clinical implementation.

Nice To Haves

Experience with machine-learning applications in clinical decision support and familiarity with real-world evidence generation.
Leadership experience in large-scale sequencing or decentralized trial initiatives.
Global regulatory submission experience with surrogate biomarker endpoints is advantageous.

Responsibilities

Strategic Development: Define and execute a comprehensive precision medicine strategy that aligns with organizational goals and incorporates cutting-edge biomarker science and digital technologies.
Cross-Functional Leadership: Lead collaboration across R&D, clinical, regulatory, and commercial teams to ensure that precision medicine strategies are scientifically rigorous, translatable, and patient-focused, maximizing the probability of success of our portfolio.
CDx Development: Oversee the end-to-end development of companion diagnostics, ensuring compliance with global regulatory standards and effective vendor partnerships.
Integration of Technology: Champion the integration of genomic, biomarker, imaging and other data into clinical workflows, maximizing the impact of data generated for patients and the business.
Team Management: Directly manage senior leaders across various functional areas, fostering a high-performing, diverse team through effective coaching and inclusive leadership practices.
Stakeholder Engagement: Represent Precision Medicine and CMS in internal governance forums and external scientific boards, advocating for advancements in precision medicine and building strategic partnerships.