Executive Director- Mass Spectrometry- Biomarker Discovery- Neuroscience

Lilly seeks an accomplished biomarker expert with deep expertise in mass spectrometry-based research. The successful candidate will lead our efforts in biomarker discovery and validation, driving progress in the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

The executive director (or potentially associate vice president) will guide both the strategic vision and the technical development of biomarker assays essential to our neuroscience pipeline. Based at our Lilly Seaport Innovation Center in Boston, within a newly established unit led by Dr. Kaj Blennow, vice president of neuroscience biomarker development, you will oversee and mentor a skilled team of biomarker researchers, fostering innovation and scientific excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and validation of novel mass-spectrometry-based biomarker assays for early and late-phase clinical trials in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, and rare brain disorders.
• Oversee and mentor a team of biomarker researchers at Lilly’s laboratories in Boston, focusing on mass spectrometry-based assay development.
• Serve as a scientific and technical expert for in-house and outsourced biomarker discovery efforts, guiding experimental study design and analytical strategies.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal stakeholders (medical, operations, statistics, regulatory) and external partners (CROs, academic institutions) to ensure biomarker validation and successful integration into clinical programs.
• Communicate findings through presentations, publications, and strategic discussions, reinforcing Lilly’s leadership in biomarker innovation.
• Ph.D. in neuroscience, biochemistry or a related field, with eight+ years of industry, academic, or postdoctoral experience experience in biomarker development, with recognized expertise in mass spectrometry-based assays for brain diseases.

Preferred

Skills and Experience:

• Proven leadership in managing and mentoring biomarker research teams in academic or industry settings.
• Deep knowledge of mass-spectrometry technology including instrument setup, optimization, and maintenance.
• Deep understanding of mass-spectrometry-based assay development, validation, and regulatory requirements for biomarker applications in clinical trials.
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to drive innovation in biomarker discovery.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills to influence both internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to translate scientific insights into impactful clinical applications.