Biomarker Therapeutic Area Head – Neuroscience

About the role

Novartis seeks a senior leader to drive biomarker strategy for its Neuroscience and Diseases of Aging and Regenerative medicine portfolio. The role partners with disease area, translational medicine, global development and commercial teams to design and implement innovative biomarker programs across all clinical stages.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute disease‑focused biomarker strategies using genetics, genomics, proteomics, imaging, digital devices and data‑science approaches.
• Lead and mentor biomarker project team leads and therapeutic area biomarker leads, overseeing project plans, timelines and cross‑functional reviews.
• Provide strategic oversight for patient selection, indication decisions and mechanism‑of‑action investigations at governance boards.
• Collaborate with biomedical R&D functions to ensure optimal biomarker selection for clinical endpoints and regulatory submissions.

Required profile

• PhD and/or MD with extensive experience in clinical biomarker development and drug development.
• Proven track record in neuroscience, neurodegeneration, neuroimmunology, neuromuscular or neurogenetic disease areas.
• Strong leadership experience in pharma/biotech matrix organizations.
• Fluent in English; additional languages (German, French, Italian) are a plus.

Required skills

• Expertise in genetics, genomics, proteomics, cellular and imaging biomarkers.
• Experience with digital device data and data‑science strategies.
• Knowledge of therapeutic modalities such as xRNA, AAV, biotherapeutics and small molecules.

What we offer

• Competitive base salary CHF 169,400 – 314,600 per year, plus performance‑based bonus and long‑term equity awards.
• Hybrid working model with flexible hours.
• Comprehensive benefits including insurance, retirement plans, wellbeing resources and 14 weeks paid parental leave.
• Opportunities for global career development, rotations and project work.