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Job Description

Biogen’s West Coast Hub, based in South San Francisco, is specifically focused on transforming the lives of patients with severe immune-mediated diseases by developing novel targeted therapies with outsized clinical impact, faster. To accomplish this, we are seeking top talent to join us on our journey.

About This Role:

The Toxicology Lead, West Coast Hub role will report to the Head of Clinical Pharmacology, WCH with matrixed reporting to the Head of Discovery Toxicology and/or the Head of Development Toxicology.  The primary responsibilities of this position are to provide strategic nonclinical safety expertise and representation for clinical development programs from discovery through post-marketing, and includes the following job duties:

  • Apply a broad understanding of toxicology, pharmacology, drug metabolism/pharmacokinetics (DMPK) and regulatory sciences to design all types of toxicology studies required to support clinical development, regulatory strategies and registration of biopharmaceuticals. This may include safety assessment of novel device and delivery systems.
  • Apply in-depth intellectual and technical expertise in toxicology and drug development to the assigned programs.
  • Develop appropriate preclinical and nonclinical safety testing strategies that are tailored to the therapeutic modality (e.g., small molecule, biologic), including design and oversight of in vitro and in vivo toxicology studies.
  • Develop risk assessments to inform key decision points and progression of drug candidates through stages of development.
  • Ensure that the preclinical/nonclinical safety plan for their programs is aligned with the clinical development plan and program objectives.
  • Apply knowledge of applicable regulatory guidelines (ICH, FDA, GLP) to the development of testing strategies and design of appropriate toxicology studies.
  • Represent Preclinical and/or Nonclinical Safety on program teams and contribute to the program team’s goals and deliverables. 
  • Collaborate effectively with other functional groups (study management, pathology, clinical, regulatory, research, DMPK, biomarkers, clinical pharmacology, clinical safety, CMC, etc.) on program-related tasks and objectives.
  • Be able to absorb and synthesize a broad range of data from toxicology, pharmacology, and PK/ADME studies to complete the nonclinical risk assessment and establish safe use conditions in humans for novel therapies.
  • Prepare high quality regulatory documents for submission to support clinical development and marketing authorizations globally.
  • Represent the preclinical and/or nonclinical safety function at country-specific regulatory meetings for their programs.

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Toxicology, Pharmacology, or closely related field.
  • 8-12 years of combined toxicology and drug development experience in a biopharmaceutical setting.
  • Biologics/Large Molecule experience
  • Toxicology board certification preferred.
  • Working knowledge and experience in all phases of research and development for biopharmaceuticals.
  • A high degree of familiarity with applicable regulatory guidelines (ICH, FDA, GLP, etc.); prior experience with regulatory agency interactions desired.
  • Demonstrated experience and expertise with both GLP and non-GLP compliant in vitro and in vivo toxicology study design, conduct and reporting.
  • Proven leadership, organizational and time management skills, including the ability to lead teams and interact effectively with internal/external experts for the conduct of toxicology studies and regulatory submissions.
  • Must possess good communication and technical writing skills and be capable of engaging in scientific dialog among large groups of scientists, senior management, and external scientific experts. 
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop less experienced toxicologists and nonclinical safety scientists.

Additional Information

The base salary range for this position is $168,000 – $231,000. Base salary offered is determined through an analytical approach utilizing a combination of factors including, but not limited to, relevant skills & experience, job location,
and internal equity.  

Regular employees are eligible to receive both short term and long-term

incentives, including cash bonus and equity incentive opportunities, designed
to reward recent achievements and recognize your future potential based on
individual, business unit and company performance.   

In addition to compensation, Biogen offers a full and highly competitive range of benefits designed to support our employees and their families' physical, financial, emotional, and social well-being; including, but not limited to:  

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurances 
  • Fitness & Wellness programs including a fitness reimbursement   
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability insurance  
  • A minimum of 15 days of paid vacation and an additional end-of-year shutdown time off (Dec 26-Dec 31) 
  • Up to 12 company paid holidays + 3 days off for Personal Significance 
  • 80 hours of sick time per calendar year
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave benefit 
  • 401(k) program participation with company matched contributions 
  • Employee stock purchase plan   
  • Tuition reimbursement of up to $10,000 per calendar year   
  • Employee Resource Groups participation     

Why Biogen?

We are a global team with a commitment to excellence, and a pioneering spirit. As a mid-sized biotechnology company, we provide the stability and resources of a well-established business while fostering an environment where individual contributions make a significant impact. Our team encompasses some of the most talented and passionate achievers who have unparalleled opportunities for learning, growth, and expanding their skills. Above all, we work together to deliver life-changing medicines, with every role playing a vital part in our mission. Caring Deeply. Achieving Excellence. Changing Lives.

At Biogen, we are committed to building on our culture of inclusion and belonging that reflects the communities where we operate and the patients we serve. We know that diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives make us a stronger and more innovative company, and we are focused on building teams where every employee feels empowered and inspired. Read on to learn more about our DE&I efforts.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law. Biogen is an E-Verify Employer in the United States.

 

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Average salary estimate

$199500 / YEARLY (est.)
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$168000K
$231000K

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What You Should Know About Toxicology Lead, West Coast Hub, Biogen

Join Biogen as a Toxicology Lead in our West Coast Hub located in the vibrant South San Francisco, CA! We're on a mission to transform the lives of patients grappling with severe immune-mediated diseases by developing innovative therapies that make a real difference. In this vibrant role, you’ll report directly to the Head of Clinical Pharmacology and work closely with leaders in Discovery and Development Toxicology. Your key responsibilities will involve leveraging your expertise in toxicology, pharmacology, and drug metabolism to design critical studies that inform clinical development and regulatory strategies. You’ll have a chance to shape preclinical safety testing approaches tailored to various therapeutic modalities, and your insights will be pivotal in assessing the safety of groundbreaking therapies. Collaboration is key at Biogen, and you’ll work alongside diverse functional teams to ensure that our nonclinical safety plans align seamlessly with our clinical development objectives. With a Ph.D. in Toxicology or a related field and several years of experience under your belt, you’ll be perfectly positioned to thrive in our dynamic environment. Plus, your leadership skills will help mentor the next generation of toxicologists. At Biogen, we believe diversity drives innovation, so we’re all about creating an inclusive workplace. If you’re a passionate leader ready to make impactful contributions while enjoying competitive benefits, we want to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Toxicology Lead, West Coast Hub Role at Biogen
What are the primary responsibilities of the Toxicology Lead at Biogen?

The Toxicology Lead at Biogen is responsible for providing strategic nonclinical safety expertise across clinical development programs, designing and overseeing necessary toxicology studies, and ensuring alignment between preclinical safety plans and clinical goals. You will contribute to the development of drug candidates from discovery through post-marketing, actively participating in risk assessments and regulatory strategy.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Toxicology Lead position at Biogen?

To apply for the Toxicology Lead role at Biogen, you need a Ph.D. in Toxicology, Pharmacology, or a closely related field, along with 8-12 years of relevant experience in a biopharmaceutical setting, especially with biologics. Knowledge of regulatory guidelines (such as ICH, FDA, GLP) and experience in drug development phases are essential. Board certification in Toxicology is preferred.

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How does the Toxicology Lead role contribute to Biogen's mission?

The Toxicology Lead plays a crucial role in Biogen's mission by ensuring that safety evaluations and toxicology studies are designed to efficiently support the development of novel therapies. Your expertise will be vital in driving projects forward and ultimately impacting the lives of patients with severe diseases through safe and effective biopharmaceuticals.

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What kind of team dynamics can I expect in the Toxicology Lead position at Biogen?

At Biogen, the team dynamics are collaborative and inclusive. As a Toxicology Lead, you will work with a diverse group of professionals across various departments, including clinical pharmacology, regulatory, and DMPK. This cross-functional collaboration is a hallmark of our approach, ensuring that every team member contributes to our common goal of delivering impactful therapies.

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What does career growth look like for a Toxicology Lead at Biogen?

Career growth for a Toxicology Lead at Biogen can involve advancing to senior leadership roles within the organization, contributing to strategic initiatives, and mentoring upcoming talent in the field. Biogen encourages continuous learning and offers resources for personal and professional development to help you reach your career aspirations.

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Common Interview Questions for Toxicology Lead, West Coast Hub
Can you explain your experience with designing toxicology studies?

In answering this question, focus on specific studies you've led or been a part of, mentioning the methodologies and regulations you adhered to. Highlight the outcomes of these studies and how they influenced clinical development, demonstrating your ability to oversee complex projects successfully.

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How do you ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines in your work?

Discuss your familiarity with regulatory frameworks such as ICH and FDA guidelines, along with your experience interacting with regulatory bodies. Providing examples of how you’ve navigated these guidelines in previous roles will showcase your understanding and expertise.

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What strategies do you use for effective risk assessment in toxicology?

Outline your approach to risk assessment, including data analysis, in-vivo and in-vitro studies, and collaboration with team members. Mention specific examples where your assessments led to significant decisions in drug development.

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Describe a challenge you faced in a toxicology project and how you overcame it.

In your response, select a situation that demonstrates your problem-solving skills and adaptability. Discuss the challenge, your thought process, and the outcome, emphasizing how your actions contributed positively to the project’s success.

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How do you stay current with developments in toxicology and pharmacology?

Mention your methods for keeping updated, such as attending conferences, reading relevant journals, and participating in professional networks. Emphasizing your commitment to ongoing education highlights your dedication to your field.

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What role does collaboration play in your work as a Toxicology Lead?

Collaboration is vital in toxicology. Discuss how working with various departments enhances safety evaluations and clinical outcomes, providing examples of past collaborative efforts where team synergy drove success.

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How do you mentor junior toxicologists and scientists?

Focus on your mentoring philosophy, including regular feedback and support, sharing knowledge, and fostering their professional development. Provide anecdotes showing how your mentorship has positively impacted team members' careers.

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What do you believe are the most important qualities of a successful Toxicology Lead?

Identify key qualities like analytical skills, leadership, communication, and knowledge of regulatory standards. Discuss how you embody these qualities and how they contribute to a successful toxicology team.

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Can you detail your experience with GLP and non-GLP studies?

Share specific instances where you have conducted GLP and non-GLP studies, discussing your responsibilities, the challenges faced, and the standards you adhered to. This will illustrate your practical experience in the area.

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What do you find most rewarding about working in toxicology?

This is a great opportunity to express your passion for the field. Highlight aspects such as the impact on patient safety, the excitement of groundbreaking research, or the satisfaction of guiding drug candidates to approval.

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DATE POSTED
April 15, 2025

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