Director Occupational Toxicology

AstraZeneca; Luton; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global biopharmaceutical company is seeking an Occupational Toxicology Lead to oversee risk assessments and develop strategies for workplace health. The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in safety, health, and environment roles within pharmaceutical sectors. Strong technical writing skills and a degree in toxicology are required. Join us to make an impact in health and safety practices!

Qualifications

• Significant experience in senior strategic Safety, Health and Environment roles in pharmaceutical industries.
• Proven proficiency in technical science writing for chemical risk assessment.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team in occupational toxicology and hazard/risk assessments.
• Establish health-based exposure limits and ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

Toxicology

Risk assessment

Safety regulations

Technical writing

People management

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Degree in toxicology or related biomedical science field

PhD in toxicology or related field (desirable)

Job description

Job Title: Occupational Toxicology Lead

Introduction to role:

Are you ready to lead the charge in occupational toxicology within Global Safety, Health and Environment (SHE)? As the Occupational Toxicology Lead, you'll develop strategies and provide expert advice to ensure workplace health risk assessments meet scientific quality and compliance standards across the globe. Your role will be pivotal in shaping the future of occupational toxicology at AstraZeneca!

Accountabilities:

• Lead a team of global experts supporting the business with problem-solving in all aspects of occupational toxicology and hazard/risk assessments.

• Oversee the AZ Global Panel for OEL/PDE to ensure the achievement of near-term deliverables and strategy to meet long-term business demands.

• Establish health-based exposure limits and author documentation for regulatory compliance, including Permitted Daily Exposures (PDEs) to support product quality and worker health and safety activities.

• Provide toxicology support for nonclinical safety assessment groups with requests from project teams, development, and toxicology leads.

• Prepare toxicology assessments in support of health hazard classification for Safety Data Sheets according to GHS and CLP, and Dangerous Goods to support worker safety as well as general public in support of chemical notification/registration.

• Implement robust risk management processes to support health hazard assessment for employees handling proprietary and non-proprietary chemicals used in the production of medicinal products.

• Manage occupational testing programs in compliance with evolving global and company regulations and guidance.

• Provide technical and scientific support for setting limits for releases into the aquatic environment.

• Maintain toxicological expertise relevant to nonclinical safety of drugs, occupational health, and product quality risk.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Degree in toxicology or related biomedical science field (or equivalent experience).

• Professional Business Qualification/Certifications.

• Significant experience in senior strategic Safety, Health and Environment covering roles in both Pharmaceutical and Biologic businesses.

• Proven proficiency in technical science writing, specifically in regard to chemical monographs for risk assessment.

• Experience in both occupational (e.g. worker exposure) and quality (e.g., patient safety) toxicology assessments.

• Familiar with regulations and guidelines for both worker and patient safety

• Applied, working knowledge of the general principles, practices, and procedures of multiple facets including pharmacology, toxicology, biology, and chemistry.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as proven negotiation, collaboration, and interpersonal leadership skills.

• Significant experience in people management and networking in a matrix organization.

• Ability to influence strategically and persuade tactfully, to obtain desired outcomes while maintaining effective organizational relationships.

• Good appreciation of SHE processes and policies, with senior management, consultancy or advisory experience in influencing strategy.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• PhD in toxicology or related biomedical science field.

• Familiarity with the latest research and thinking in specialist areas.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

At AstraZeneca, we are committed to making a difference beyond patients by pioneering sustainability strategies. With a focus on delivering more medicines faster and more affordably, we thrive on innovation backed by investment and leadership. Join us as we turn molecules into medicines through cutting-edge science, digitalization, and sustainable practices.

Ready to make an impact? Apply now to join AstraZeneca's journey towards a healthier future!

Date Posted

20-Aug-2025

Closing Date

03-Sept-2025 Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.