(Senior) Principal Scientist Biomarker Lead

Boehringer Ingelheim; Biberach an der Riß; Hybrid; EUR 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Boehringer Ingelheim is seeking a Biomarker Leader (Senior Principal Scientist) in Germany, based in Biberach or Ingelheim. The role blends hands-on science with leadership in translational biomarker development for eye health, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to advance therapies for AMD and diabetic retinopathy.

You will drive end-to-end biomarker strategies, guide cross-functional projects, and strengthen external collaborations while contributing to strategic drug development

Qualifications

• PhD and/or MD with extensive biomarker-related experience in drug development.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional matrix teams and drive strategic decisions.
• Deep knowledge of translational science and biomarker applications across development.
• Experience in ophthalmology or relevant human pathophysiology is a strong asset.
• Excellent written and verbal communication in English.

Responsibilities

• Develop end-to-end translational biomarker strategies from preclinical to clinical.
• Lead biomarker-related activities linking molecular pathways to disease trajectories.
• Oversee collaborations with internal/external partners in academia and industry.
• Contribute to drug and clinical development plans with fit-for-purpose strategies.
• Collaborate on AI approaches in biomarker assessment and novel clinical endpoints.

Skills

Translational science

Biomarker development

Clinical endpoints

Cross-functional leadership

Data integration

Education

PhD or MD

Job description

Join our Experimental Science team and help shape the future of eye health innovation.

Based in either Biberach (Riss) or Ingelheim am Rhein, this exciting opportunity offers you the chance to contribute as a Biomarker Leader within the Experimental Medicine Eye Health Innovation Unit. You will collaborate with a highly experienced, multidisciplinary team of Biomarker Leaders and Clinical Imaging Leads, bringing together expertise in disease pathophysiology, biochemistry, physics, mathematics, experimental and clinical ophthalmology, and drug development to advance therapies for conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

We are seeking a passionate expert with a strong background in translational science and clinical endpoint development who can strengthen our team both as an individual contributor and as a leader within cross-functional matrix teams. If you are eager to drive scientific innovation and make a meaningful impact on patients' lives, we look forward to receiving your application.

This position can be filled in Ingelheim or Biberach.
This position can be filled either as Principal Scientist or Senior Principal Scientist.
This position has a hybrid setup with approximately 1 - 2 days per week on site.
This position is part time eligible with 80 %.

Tasks & responsibilities

• In your new role, you will be accountable for the development and implementation of end-to-end translational biomarker strategies from the preclinical to clinical early and late phases of drug development programs
• You will lead as a matrix leader biomarker- related activities from quantifying drug response on molecular pathways and imaging biomarkers and drives efforts to link these to impact on disease trajectories, functional assessments and patient benefit in relevant disease populations
• Furthermore, you will assume accountability for research collaborations focused on benefiting multiple programs in line with the project and disease area strategies
• You will be an active member of preclinical and clinical drug development teams and provides scientific and strategic input into the overall drug and clinical development plans by delivering fit for purpose biomarker strategies that drive decisions making and inform preclinical and drug development plans
• Finally, you will collaborate with internal and external experts in academia, industry, service providers and device manufacturers for the assessment of biomarkers including AI approaches in experimental medicine and natural history studies for the identification and evaluation of biomarkers of disease and novel clinical trial endpoints

Additional tasks for the Senior Principal role

• You will provide subject matter expertise and strategic guidance to internal and external projects and stakeholders and provide strategic input for multi-project and portfolio initiatives and disease area strategies
• In addition, you will lead end to end initiatives for the identification, validation and implementation of translational biomarkers and novel clinical endpoints to enable early drug development decision making and address the need to enable filing of novel and differentiated MoAs in our core indications

Requirements

• PhD and/or MD degree with long term experience in research, industry or clinical setting, including several years of demonstrated biomarker-related work experience in the context of drug development
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional matrix teams, drive strategic decision-making, and effectively prioritize activities to achieve both project objectives and team deliverables
• Strong expertise in methodological, bioanalytical, and clinical assessments within translational and clinical development with a deep understanding of biomarker applications across the drug development lifecycle. Prior experience in Ophthalmology or specific disease relevant human pathophysiology understanding are strong asset
• Demonstrated capability to generate, integrate, and interpret preclinical, clinical, and translational data to support proof of biology, mechanism of action, dose selection, and patient stratification strategies
• Strategic and innovative mindset with the ability to see the broader picture, translate complex scientific challenges into actionable solutions, and drive scientific and operational excellence
• Collaborative and proactive team player with strong networking skills, capable of building effective partnerships across a global organization while working independently and within multidisciplinary teams
• Excellent presentation, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with full professional proficiency in English

Additional requirements for the Senior Principal role

• Recognized internally and externally as a subject matter expert, with a proven track record of delivering significant impact and innovation within the field
• Well-connected within a strong international network of external experts, fostering strategic collaborations and knowledge exchange
• Demonstrated experience in influencing and contributing to large-scale research initiatives, consortia, or cross-organizational programs
• Strong leadership capabilities, with the ability to inspire teams, drive strategic priorities, and achieve ambitious objectives

As part of our commitment to transparency and fairness, salary information will be shared during the recruitment process. We also offer a comprehensive benefits and wellbeing package.

Applications from persons with severe disabilities are warmly welcomed. In cases of equal qualifications, such applicants will be given preferential consideration in the selection process.

Ready to contact us?

If you have any questions about the job posting or process - please contact our HR Direct Team, Tel: [phone] or via mail: [e-mail]

Recruitment process:

Step 1: Online application - The job posting is presumably online until November 17, 2026.
Step 2: Virtual meeting end of November, 2026.
Step 3: On-site interviews beginning of December, 2026

Our Company

Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry's top investors in research and development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies that can improve and extend lives in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. Our approximately 54,300 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier and more sustainable tomorrow. Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com.

Why Boehringer Ingelheim?

With us, you can develop your own path in a company with a culture that knows our differences are our strengths - and break new ground in the drive to make millions of lives better.

Here, your development is our priority. Supporting you to build a career as part of a workplace that is independent, authentic and bold, while tackling challenging work in a respectful and friendly environment where everyone is valued and welcomed.

Alongside, you have access to programs and groups that ensure your health and wellbeing are looked after - as we make major investments to drive global accessibility to healthcare. By being part of a team that is constantly innovating, you'll be helping to transform lives for generations.

Want to learn more? Visit https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com