About This Role
We are seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist to join Biogen’s Neurology Research Unit and drive the development of therapeutics for neuromuscular disorders. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in muscle biology, strong scientific leadership, and the ability to manage and prioritize multiple programs in a highly collaborative, matrixed environment. Excellent communication, scientific rigor, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.
What You’ll Do
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Lead multiple exploratory through pre‑IND programs, ensuring timely delivery of milestones and effective resource allocation across cross‑functional teams.
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Identify and explore new targets and biological pathways, incorporating emerging technologies and experimental platforms.
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Design, develop, characterize, and validate iPSC‑derived and primary human skeletal and cardiac 2D and 3D disease models to support therapeutic programs.
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Characterize neuromuscular and skeletal muscle phenotypes in mouse models, including in vivo and ex vivo muscle force and neuromuscular junction assays.
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Supervise and mentor junior scientists in the design and execution of in vitro assays and in vivo characterization studies.
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Serve as a subject matter expert for internal decision‑making and external due diligence efforts.
Who You Are
You are passionate about advancing drug discovery and development for neuromuscular disorders. You thrive in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment and enjoy translating biology into impactful therapeutic programs. You are a scientific leader who values rigor, mentorship, and cross‑disciplinary teamwork.
Required Skills
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PhD with 5+ years of experience in drug discovery, muscle biology, physiology, or a related field. Alternatively, Bachelor’s degree with 10+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry or academic experience; or Master’s degree with 8+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry or academic experience.
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Deep expertise in muscle biology and translational research assays.
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Hands‑on experience with in vivo muscle function measurements, including evoked force, treadmill running, and other functional assessments.
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Strong background in assay development and drug discovery research.
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Demonstrated track record of publishing in high‑impact journals and presenting at scientific conferences.
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Proven ability to lead programs, mentor and supervise scientists, and drive scientific excellence.
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High level of scientific rigor, curiosity, and passion for neuromuscular research.
Preferred Skills
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Hands‑on experience with gene‑based or RNA‑based therapeutics, including LNP/mRNA, ASO or siRNA approaches, is a plus.
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Experience with small‑molecule drug discovery and development, including target validation, hit identification, lead optimization, and preclinical characterization.
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Demonstrated ability to design and interpret pharmacology, PK/PD, and efficacy studies to support programs.
Why Biogen?
Our mission to find therapies for neurological and rare diseases is a unique focus within our industry and this shared purpose is what connects us as a team. We work together to overcome obstacles and to follow the science. We are resilient as we strive to make an impact on our patients’ lives and on changing the course of medicine. Together, we pioneer. Together, we thrive.
Job Level: Management
Additional Information
The base compensation range for this role is: $142,000.00-$190,000.00
Base salary offered is determined through an analytical approach utilizing a combination of factors including, but not limited to, relevant skills & experience, job location, and internal equity.
Regular employees are eligible to receive both short term and long-term incentives, including cash bonus and equity incentive opportunities, designed to reward recent achievements and recognize your future potential based on individual, business unit and company performance.
In addition to compensation, Biogen offers a full and highly competitive range of benefits designed to support our employees’ and their families physical, financial, emotional, and social well-being; including, but not limited to:
- Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurances
- Fitness & Wellness programs including a fitness reimbursement
- Short- and Long-Term Disability insurance
- A minimum of 15 days of paid vacation and an additional end-of-year shutdown time off (Dec 26-Dec 31)
- Up to 12 company paid holidays + 3 paid days off for Personal Significance
- 80 hours of sick time per calendar year
- Paid Maternity and Parental Leave benefit
- 401(k) program participation with company matched contributions
- Employee stock purchase plan
- Tuition reimbursement of up to $10,000 per calendar year
- Employee Resource Groups participation
Why Biogen?
We are a global team with a commitment to excellence, and a pioneering spirit. As a mid-sized biotechnology company, we provide the stability and resources of a well-established business while fostering an environment where individual contributions make a significant impact. Our team encompasses some of the most talented and passionate achievers who have unparalleled opportunities for learning, growth, and expanding their skills. Above all, we work together to deliver life-changing medicines, with every role playing a vital part in our mission. Caring Deeply. Achieving Excellence. Changing Lives.
At Biogen, we are committed to building on our culture of inclusion and belonging that reflects the communities where we operate and the patients we serve. We know that diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives make us a stronger and more innovative company, and we are focused on building teams where every employee feels empowered and inspired. Read on to learn more about our DE&I efforts.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law. Biogen is an E-Verify Employer in the United States.