Distinguished Scientist, Transgenic Model and Technology

About the job

The Translational In Vivo Models (TIM) department within Sanofi's R&D is seeking an exceptional Distinguished Scientist to lead our Transgenic Model & Technology (TMT) function globally. This strategic leadership role will drive innovation in genome engineering and genetically modified model development to accelerate drug discovery across all therapeutic divisions.
As the G****lobal Head of Transgenic Biology , you will ensure our organization remains at the forefront of technical developments in genome engineering, enabling breakthrough discoveries in immunology, immuno-inflammation, rare diseases, neuroscience, and oncology. You will serve as a key scientific advisor and strategic thinker, shaping the direction of in vivo and preclinical research programs while championing the integration of emerging technologies — including AI and digital platforms — into transgenic science.
This role is based in Cambridge, MA and is primarily office/lab-based with some scope for flexible remote working.

Key Responsibilities

Scientific Leadership & Innovation

• Lead and advance state-of-the-art genome engineering techniques and mouse genetics applications for in vivo model development supporting discovery and developmental research
• Apply personal expertise in transgenesis and CRISPR technology to devise and execute sophisticated experimental strategies for target validation, proof-of-concept, and efficacy studies
• Identify, evaluate, and implement new technologies and innovations in transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas systems, and emerging genome engineering platforms
• Serve as a strategic thinker and scientific advisor to research projects across therapeutic areas, providing expert guidance on in vivo and preclinical study design
• Champion the integration of AI and digital technologies to enhance model design, data analysis, and predictive capabilities in transgenic research
• Cover a broad scientific scope including immunology and immuno-inflammation, rare diseases, neuroscience, molecular and immune-oncology, and all areas of cell and molecular biology pertaining to immunology and immune-oncology

Strategic Planning & Cross-Functional Leadership

• Demonstrate strategic thinking and orientation in aligning transgenic capabilities with organizational research priorities and long-term scientific goals
• Lead and coordinate transversal teams and projects across multiple therapeutic divisions, sites, and external partners
• Collaborate closely with the Head of Transgenic Division, drug discovery program leaders, cluster heads, and department heads to provide strategic scientific advice
• Drive budget planning, forecasting, and financial management to optimize resource allocation and operational efficiency

Operational Excellence & Partnership Management

• Establish and maintain comprehensive project management frameworks ensuring full-service delivery from model design through study-ready animal production
• Build and manage strategic relationships with model providers, CROs, and academic partners for development and delivery of genetically modified models
• Negotiate and oversee license agreements and partnership contracts for model acquisition and technology access
• Implement quality standards and continuous improvement initiatives to maintain operational excellence

People Leadership & Development

• Supervise, mentor, and develop staff members to build a high-performing team at the forefront of transgenic science
• Participate in talent management decisions including hiring, promotions, performance evaluations, and organizational development
• Foster a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning

Minimum Education and Experience Required

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Developmental Biology, or a related discipline
• Extensive post-doctoral or industry experience in mouse molecular genetics and transgenic animal model development
• Demonstrated track record of scientific leadership in an academic or pharmaceutical/biotech research environment
• Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated, hands-on experience performing this role.

Additional Qualifications

Technical Expertise

• Deep expertise in developing transgenic animal models, including engineering diverse genetic alleles using CRISPR/Cas9, Cas12, base editors, prime editors , and other advanced genome engineering systems
• Comprehensive knowledge of both theoretical principles and practical methodologies required to lead a state-of-the-art transgenic facility
• Strong foundation in molecular biology, mouse genetics, embryology, and reproductive technologies
• Experience across multiple therapeutic areas (immunology, oncology, rare diseases, neuroscience preferred)

Leadership & Strategic Capabilities

• Proven strategic thinking and orientation with ability to align scientific capabilities with business objectives
• Demonstrated success leading transversal teams and managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects across sites and functions
• Established track record as a scientific thinker and advisor to in vivo and preclinical research programs
• Experience identifying, evaluating, and implementing new technologies and innovations in a research setting
• Familiarity with and application of AI and digital technologies in biological research, model design, and data analysis

Professional Skills

• Exceptional project management skills with ability to oversee multiple concurrent initiatives
• Strong contract negotiation and vendor management capabilities
• Excellent budget planning, financial management, and resource allocation skills
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) for effective collaboration across diverse, global stakeholders
• Proven ability to work in matrix organizations and influence without direct authority

Personal Attributes

• Self-motivated with demonstrated ability to lead and thrive in collaborative team environments
• Comfortable managing competing priorities and adapting to dynamic research needs
• Commitment to scientific excellence, integrity, and ethical research practices
• Passion for mentoring and developing scientific talent
• Candidates must be willing to travel as part of this position.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to shape the future of transgenic technology at a global biopharmaceutical leader
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and resources across a world-class R&D organization
• Collaborative, innovative research environment spanning multiple therapeutic areas
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements supporting work-life balance

Why Choose Us?

• Bring the miracles of science to life alongside a supportive, future-focused team.
• Discover endless opportunities to grow your talent and drive your career, whether it’s through a promotion or lateral move, at home or internationally.
• Enjoy a thoughtful, well-crafted rewards package that recognizes your contribution and amplifies your impact.
• Take good care of yourself and your family, with a wide range of health and wellbeing benefits including high-quality healthcare, prevention and wellness programs and at least 14 weeks’ gender-neutral parental leave.

Sanofi US Services and its U.S. affiliates are Equal Opportunity employers committed to a culturally inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; creed; religion; national origin; age; ancestry; nationality; marital, domestic partnership or civil union status; sex, gender, gender identity or expression; affectional or sexual orientation; disability; veteran or military status or liability for military status; domestic violence victim status; atypical cellular or blood trait; genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing) or any other characteristic protected by law.