Medical Director, Early Global Development, Oncology R&D

Do you have expertise in and passion for clinical development? Are you looking to work at the cutting edge, where scientific innovations and an entrepreneurial spirit are the norm? Join the team at the heart of AstraZeneca that is committed and encouraged to follow the science in Oncology R&D, and you could be involved in pioneering research across five scientific platforms very soon!

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies.

We have a bold ambition to provide cures for cancer in every form. We are following the science to understand cancer and all its complexities to discover, develop and deliver life-changing treatments and increase the potential to save the lives of people around the world.

Our Oncology strategy is built with one goal in mind – to push the boundaries of science to change the practice of medicine and transform the lives of patients living with cancer. Our broad pipeline of next-generation medicines, together with our focus on excellence in execution, are aimed at expanding treatment options and improving outcomes for patients with solid tumours and haematological cancers. 

Oncology Research & Development

Join the team dedicated to Oncology, with an ambition to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. It’s our big vision that unites and inspires us.

With multiple indications and high-quality molecules at all stages of our innovative pipeline, we keep pushing forward. Fusing ground breaking science with the latest technology to achieve breakthroughs. Backed by investment, we thrive to deliver 6 new molecular entities by 2025.

A place built on courage, curiosity and collaboration – we make ambitious decisions driven by patient outcomes. Empowered to lead at every level, free to ask questions and take smart risks that write the next chapter for our pipeline and Oncology team.

One area of significant investment is to build internal infrastructure to be a leader in next generation of products in Oncology. Using historical expertise in biologics engineering, gene editing and immune expertise across solid and

haematological malignancies, AstraZeneca is uniquely positioned to develop the best technologies and is already growing a differentiated pipeline.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a well-trained Medical Director who is a clinician with strong leadership skills who is driven by science and the desire to develop novel therapies for cancer patients, and has a proficiency in the drug development process (especially early phase clinical trials), protocol writing & study conduct, data review and reconciliation, the principles of translational medicine, and what it takes to lead teams successfully. This individual will have the opportunity for growth and development while working in a vibrant environment.

You would join AstraZeneca at a time of tremendous growth and acceleration in the oncology portfolio. This is a fast-paced and dynamic work environment where, with growing levels of responsibility. You will be responsible for:

• Providing long-range clinical development planning, planning and managing of clinical research projects and clinical development programs in oncology.

• Serve as the Project Medical Monitor while working in a cross-functional environment with representatives from other involved line functions as well as Late-Stage Development.

• Contribute to and support Department/Clinical initiatives to improve the quality and content of all clinical programs as well as the cross-functional/organization processes designed to effectively deliver our R&D portfolio.

• Serve as medical monitor with primary responsibility for patient safety and conduct of assigned trials as well as overall data interpretation and safety surveillance;

• Establish and approve scientific methods for design and implementation of applicable clinical protocols, data collection systems, and final reports;

• Responsible for assisting in design of clinical development plans and overall strategy for compounds, therapeutic classes of compounds or indications in light of developments in the area of clinical and pharmaceutical oncology;

• Collaborate with pre-clinical and translational sciences, and senior management in assessing requirements for emerging products; Provide leadership on cross-functional product development team(s) as experience allows;

• Participate in identification, selection and conduct of negotiations with clinical research centers and investigators;

• Participate in the selection and management activities of CROs; Supervise project team members in planning, conducting and evaluating clinical trials;

• Lead all aspects of planning and management of investigator meetings, advisory boards and other scientific committees.

We are seeking a well-trained clinician with strong leadership skills who is driven by science and the desire to develop novel oncology therapies for cancer patients. Additionally, you will have a clear understanding of the drug development process (especially early phase clinical trials), protocol writing & study conduct, data review and reconciliation, the principles of translational medicine, and what it takes to lead teams successfully.

Essential Requirements:

Education & experience:

-MD or equivalent required

-Experience in clinical research and/or oncology drug development in pharmaceutical, academic or CRO environment.

Preferred Requirements:

• PhD in a relevant research area is helpful.

• Experience in molecular oncology and/or translational science

• Medical specialty and sub-specialty training and Board Certification

• Excellent oral and written skills, strong interpersonal and listening skills

• Results driven to achieve creative and sound outcomes

• Proven leadership skills and demonstrated ability to interact collaboratively in a cross-functional environment.

• Ability to make sound and timely decisions; agile in learning and proactive in your approach

• High level of emotional intelligence; able to deal with ambiguity

• Able to relate to varied level audiences across the organization; able to set priorities for team and maintain accountability; skillful in negotiating organizational boundaries and hierarchy; able to build effective teams