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Executive Director, Clinical Science

Company Description

Zai Lab Limited (NASDAQ: ZLAB; HKEX: 9688) is an innovative, research-based, commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company based in China and the United States focused on discovering, developing and commercializing innovative products that address medical conditions with significant unmet needs in the areas of oncology, immunology, neuroscience , and infectious disease. Our goal is to leverage our competencies and resources to positively impact human health in China and worldwide.

Zai Lab has its U.S. headquarters in Cambridge, Mass. and R&D functions in the San Francisco Bay Area and San Diego, where its U.S.-based clinical development and clinical operations teams reside. Founded in 2014, our experienced team has secured partnerships with leading global biopharmaceutical companies, generating a broad late-stage pipeline of innovative drug candidates. Our unique business model builds on our in-licensed assets and innovative partnerships to expand our internal discovery and development capabilities and has created a portfolio of potential best-in-class and/or first-in-class therapies. Zai currently has seven approved products in China

Zai Lab was successfully listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market in September 2017 and completed secondary listing on Hong Kong Stock Exchange in September 2020. In 2022, Zai Lab became dual-primary listed on both the Nasdaq and the Hong Kong Stock Exchanges. 

Job Description

Reporting to the SVP, Global Clinical Development, the Executive Director Clinical Science drives the scientific rigor and integrity of our clinical research programs. This role involves the development of clinical protocols to ensure clinical trials meet regulatory standards and include unbiased and well-controlled clinical design. The Executive Director will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including clinical operations, translational medicine, regulatory affairs, and medical affairs, to ensure the seamless execution of clinical trials that meet the highest standards of quality and compliance. The position will be based in our office in South San Francisco, CA.

  • Develop and implement standards for clinical protocols, including data monitoring and preparation of clinical data to ensure consistency and quality.
  • Lead strategic collaborations with colleagues across various departments to gather input and refine clinical protocols.
  • Work closely with study physicians to analyze and interpret clinical trial data, ensuring accuracy and integrity in data reporting.
  • Lead the creation, review, and submission of key clinical documents such as protocols, informed consent forms, clinical study reports, and regulatory submissions.
  • Collaborate with regulatory affairs to support regulatory strategy development, submissions and interactions with health authorities.
  • Work closely with other departments within R&D to align clinical science activities with broader company objectives, including business development diligence.
  • Build and manage a team of clinical science professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning.
  • Engage with key stakeholders, including clinical investigators, key opinion leaders, patient advocacy groups, and academic institutions, to advance clinical research initiatives.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory standards and ethical guidelines in the conduct of clinical research.
  • Work across several time zones and travel up to 30%.

Qualifications

REQUIRED:

  • PhD in a relevant scientific discipline with 12 years of experience in clinical research within the biopharmaceutical industry; or equivalent combination of higher education, training and experience.

PREFERRED:

  • Experience with global clinical trials and experience in all phases of drug development
  • Proven track record of leading clinical science teams and successful execution of clinical trials and outcomes.
  • Outstanding knowledge of industry issues and competitive landscape in drug development.
  • Excellent leadership skills and the ability to manage and develop high-performing teams; strong collaboration and teamwork in cross-functional setting; comfortable with a hands-on leadership position.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills to effectively interact with internal and external stakeholders.

  •  

Additional Information

The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $289K and $337K/year. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including location, job-related knowledge, skills, education and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including corporate bonus and equity awards.  In addition Zai Lab offers a robust benefits package which includes comprehensive health insurance, 401(k) with company match, family advocacy programs, and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary as well as any other discretionary payment and benefits at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

At Zai, we are proud of the gender diversity of our company and our promotion of women in biotech. We have achieved gender base pay equity at all levels, 58% of our employees are women and 54% of our management positions are held by women. We are committed to the health of patients and our planet. That’s why our environmental protection, social responsibility, and corporate governance strategy, called “Trust for Life” is integrated within our business.

Disclaimer: This description is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or requirement for the position. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or based on disability.

Zai Lab is committed to protecting the privacy and security of the information we collect and to being transparent about the purposes for which we use your information. We have a Privacy Notice which sets forth our policies and practices for handling the information we collect and use in the employment context.  Privacy Notice available upon request.

Average salary estimate

$313000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$289000K
$337000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Executive Director, Clinical Science, Zai Lab (US) LLC

Join Zai Lab Limited as the Executive Director of Clinical Science and play a pivotal role in shaping groundbreaking clinical research programs. Based in our vibrant South San Francisco office, you'll report directly to the SVP of Global Clinical Development and be responsible for crafting clinical protocols that adhere to strict regulatory standards while embracing innovative and unbiased designs. Collaborate closely with dynamic cross-functional teams, including clinical operations and regulatory affairs, to ensure the impeccable execution of clinical trials. This role isn’t just about compliance; it's about fostering creativity and excellence within the clinical science community at Zai Lab. You'll lead strategic collaborations that refine clinical protocols, analyze clinical trial data with study physicians, and manage the creation and submission of essential clinical documents. Exceptional leadership skills will be crucial as you guide a team of clinical science professionals and engage with vital stakeholders such as clinical investigators and patient advocacy groups. If you possess a PhD along with 12 years of clinical research experience in the biopharmaceutical sector, we want you to bring your expertise to help us positively impact human health globally. Zai Lab is committed to diversity, and as part of our promise to promote equality, we celebrate the gender diversity within our company, with 58% of our workforce being women. We can't wait to see how your unique vision will enhance our mission at Zai Lab!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Executive Director, Clinical Science Role at Zai Lab (US) LLC
What are the main responsibilities of the Executive Director, Clinical Science at Zai Lab?

The Executive Director, Clinical Science at Zai Lab is responsible for driving the scientific excellence of our clinical research programs. Key responsibilities include developing clinical protocols that adhere to regulatory standards, collaborating with cross-functional teams for seamless trial execution, and analyzing clinical trial data to ensure integrity. This role also involves leading the creation of essential clinical documents and managing interactions with regulatory authorities to align with business objectives.

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What qualifications are required for the Executive Director, Clinical Science position at Zai Lab?

To qualify for the Executive Director, Clinical Science position at Zai Lab, candidates must hold a PhD in a relevant scientific discipline and possess at least 12 years of clinical research experience within the biopharmaceutical industry. Preferred qualifications include a proven track record in leading clinical trials, a strong understanding of global clinical practices, and exceptional communication and leadership skills.

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What is the work environment like for the Executive Director, Clinical Science at Zai Lab?

The work environment for the Executive Director, Clinical Science at Zai Lab in South San Francisco is collaborative and innovative. You'll find yourself working alongside diverse teams across various departments, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence. The role requires flexibility as you may work across multiple time zones and engage with key stakeholders in the clinical research landscape.

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How does Zai Lab support the professional development of the Executive Director, Clinical Science?

Zai Lab is committed to the professional development of its employees, including the Executive Director, Clinical Science. The company encourages continuous learning and offers opportunities for attending industry conferences, workshops, and training programs. Additionally, Zai Lab fosters an environment that promotes mentorship and collaboration, enabling leaders to thrive and contribute to their teams' growth.

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What are the potential career advancements for the Executive Director, Clinical Science at Zai Lab?

The Executive Director, Clinical Science at Zai Lab has the potential for significant career advancement within the company and the broader biopharmaceutical industry. With contributions to impactful clinical programs and the opportunity to lead and mentor teams, this role can pave the way for higher executive positions or specialized leadership roles within Zai Lab or other leading organizations in the healthcare sector.

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Common Interview Questions for Executive Director, Clinical Science
Can you describe your experience in leading clinical research programs?

In answering this question, provide specific examples of clinical research programs you have led, emphasizing your leadership style, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes of those programs. Highlight any innovative approaches you implemented to overcome obstacles and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

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How do you approach the development of clinical protocols?

Discuss your process for developing clinical protocols, including your collaboration with cross-functional teams and consideration of regulatory requirements. Mention how you ensure that protocols are designed to capture meaningful data and support successful clinical trials.

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What strategies do you use to manage and develop clinical science teams?

Share your leadership philosophy and specific strategies you employ to build high-performing teams. Describe how you foster a culture of collaboration and learning while promoting individual growth and motivation within your team.

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How do you ensure compliance with regulatory standards in your clinical trials?

Explain the methods you use to stay informed about current regulatory requirements, your approach to training team members, and how you incorporate these standards into clinical trial design and execution.

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What has been your experience with global clinical trials?

Discuss specific global clinical trials you have been involved in, detailing your role, the complexities you navigated, and how you ensured successful outcomes across different regions and regulatory environments.

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How do you handle data discrepancies in clinical trial results?

Provide an example of how you addressed data discrepancies in a past trial. Discuss the steps you took to investigate the issue, involve relevant stakeholders, and ensure data integrity while making necessary adjustments to processes.

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How do you engage with key stakeholders in clinical research initiatives?

Illustrate your approach for building relationships with key stakeholders such as investigators, patient groups, and regulatory authorities. Mention specific communication strategies and how you ensure their input is valued throughout the research process.

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What are the biggest challenges facing clinical research today?

Articulate your understanding of current challenges in clinical research, including regulatory changes, competition, and patient enrollment. Discuss potential strategies and initiatives you believe could help navigate and overcome these challenges.

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How do you approach collaboration with other departments to align clinical activities with business goals?

Discuss how you establish effective communication and coordination with other departments such as R&D, regulatory affairs, and commercial teams. Emphasize your focus on aligning clinical objectives with broader company goals to ensure cohesiveness and shared success.

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Can you discuss a successful clinical trial outcome that you led?

When answering this question, provide a high-level overview of the trial, including its objectives, your role, and the results obtained. Highlight any innovative methods or perspectives you applied that contributed to the trial's success.

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DATE POSTED
April 12, 2025

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