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Executive Director – Mass Spectrometry-Based Biomarker Discovery (Neuroscience)

8 years
USD 184,500 – 321,200
10 Nov. 26, 2025
Job Description
Job Type: Full Time Education: B.Sc./ M.Sc./ M.Pharm/ B.Pharm/ Life Sciences Skills: Causality Assessment, Clinical SAS Programming, Communication Skills, CPC Certified, GCP guidelines, ICD-10 CM Codes, CPT-Codes, HCPCS Codes, ICD-10 CM, CPT, HCPCS Coding, ICH guidelines, ICSR Case Processing, Interpersonal Skill, Labelling Assessment, MedDRA Coding, Medical Billing, Medical Coding, Medical Terminology, Narrative Writing, Research & Development, Technical Skill, Triage of ICSRs, WHO DD Coding

Executive Director – Mass Spectrometry-Based Biomarker Discovery (Neuroscience)

Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Category: Research & Development
Job Type: Full Time | Regular
Job ID: R-90333

About the Organization

Lilly is a global pharmaceutical leader committed to advancing scientific discovery and improving lives worldwide. With a strong presence in neuroscience research, Lilly develops transformative therapies and diagnostics that address complex brain disorders. The company fosters a culture that prioritizes scientific excellence, integrity, and people-first values.


Role Overview

Lilly’s Neuroscience Research team is expanding its biomarker innovation capabilities and is seeking a highly accomplished leader in mass spectrometry-based biomarker discovery. As the Executive Director (or Associate Vice President) for Biomarker Discovery, you will guide the strategic and technical development of biomarker assays that support clinical programs for neurodegenerative diseases. This role is based in Boston within a newly established research unit led by Dr. Kaj Blennow, Vice President of Neuroscience Biomarker Development.

This position is ideal for a seasoned scientist with deep expertise in mass spectrometry and a strong track record in biomarker discovery, validation, and translational research.


Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the development, optimization, and validation of advanced mass spectrometry-based biomarker assays for early- and late-phase clinical trials in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and other neurodegenerative conditions.

  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a dedicated team of biomarker scientists in Lilly’s Boston laboratories.

  • Guide scientific and analytical strategies for both in-house and outsourced biomarker discovery initiatives.

  • Collaborate across clinical, regulatory, medical, statistics, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration of biomarker data into clinical development programs.

  • Drive external collaborations with CROs, academic partners, and strategic stakeholders to enhance scientific innovation.

  • Present findings and scientific insights through internal governance meetings, external presentations, and peer-reviewed publications.

  • Contribute to scientific strategy and pipeline advancement by shaping biomarker-driven precision medicine approaches in neuroscience.


Experience Required

  • PhD in Neuroscience, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.

  • Minimum 8 years of postdoctoral, academic, or industry experience focused on biomarker development, specifically using mass spectrometry-based assays.

  • Proven expertise in biomarker discovery for neurodegenerative or neurological diseases.

  • Demonstrated leadership experience managing scientific teams or research groups.

  • Advanced proficiency in mass spectrometry instrumentation, method development, assay validation, and data interpretation.

  • Deep understanding of regulatory expectations for biomarkers in clinical research.

  • Strong communication skills with experience presenting to scientific, regulatory, and cross-functional audiences.


Preferred Skills & Competencies

  • Leadership experience in academic, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical research environments.

  • Expertise in instrument setup, optimization, troubleshooting, and maintenance across mass spectrometry platforms.

  • Strong problem-solving and strategic thinking capabilities with a focus on innovation.

  • Ability to translate scientific findings into actionable clinical insights.

  • Strong collaborative skills and the ability to influence internal and external scientific partners.

  • Track record of high-impact publications in biomarker discovery or neuroscience research.


Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary Range: USD 184,500 – 321,200 (based on experience, skills, and location).

  • Eligibility for annual performance-based bonuses.

  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, 401(k), pension, paid vacation, flexible benefits, life insurance, disability benefits, wellness programs, and employee support resources.


Equal Opportunity Statement

Lilly is an Equal Opportunity Employer and fosters a workplace that values diversity, inclusion, and equal access. Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities through the dedicated application support process.