Associate Director, Translational Science (Neurology)

Eisai US; Nutley (NJ); On-site; USD 168,200 - 220,700; Full time

Job summary

Eisai US seeks an Associate Director of Translational Science to contribute to neurology programs by bridging preclinical and clinical teams. This position involves developing biomarker strategies, collaborating with diverse teams, and impacting patient outcomes through innovative research.

The ideal candidate should possess a PhD, extensive experience in translational science, and a deep understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Join a dynamic team at the forefront of research!

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant experience in translational science, biomarkers, or drug development.
• Working knowledge of clinical biomarker development and translational research.
• Background in neuroscience and neurodegenerative diseases.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development and execution of biomarker strategies.
• Analyze and interpret biomarker and clinical data.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners.

Skills

Data analysis

Collaboration

Scientific presentation

Attention to detail

Education

PhD in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, or related field

Job description

Position Summary

The Associate Director of Translational Science contributes to the design and execution of translational and biomarker strategies supporting neurology programs from discovery through early clinical development. This role bridges preclinical and clinical teams, ensuring the effective implementation and interpretation of biomarkers to inform program decisions. The position provides an opportunity to develop deep expertise in neurodegenerative disease biology, including non-Alzheimer’s indications such as Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia, primary tauopathies, and sleep‑related disorders, while working closely with senior translational leaders. The successful candidate will combine strong scientific training with hands‑on involvement in biomarker implementation, data analysis, and cross‑functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

Translational Strategy & Execution

• Contribute to the development and execution of translational and biomarker strategies for neurology programs.
• Support implementation of multi‑modal biomarker approaches (e.g., biofluid, imaging, digital biomarkers).
• Translate scientific hypotheses into practical biomarker applications within studies.

Clinical & Scientific Integration

• Serve as a core translational science representative on cross‑functional program teams, contributing to study planning and execution.
• Support integration of biomarkers into clinical study design, conduct, and analysis.
• Analyze and interpret biomarker and clinical data to support program understanding and decision‑making.
• Assist in bridging preclinical findings with clinical outcomes.

Biomarker Development & Operations

• Work with internal teams and external collaborators to implement fit‑for‑purpose biomarker assays.
• Collaborate with CROs and academic partners to support biomarker sample analysis and data generation.
• Help ensure data quality, assay performance, and alignment with study objectives.

Collaboration & Scientific Contribution

• Contribute to a collaborative, team‑based environment as an active member of translational science within program teams.
• Partner closely with clinical, data science, and pharmacology colleagues.
• Contribute to protocols, regulatory documents, reports, and scientific publications.
• Present data and insights internally and, as appropriate, externally.

Learning & Innovation

• Stay current with advances in neurodegenerative disease biology and biomarker technologies.
• Contribute to the evaluation of emerging approaches (e.g., omics, digital biomarkers).
• Build expertise in disease‑relevant biology and translational methodologies.

Qualifications

PhD, or equivalent in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, or related field.
5+ years of relevant experience in translational science, biomarkers, or drug development.
Working knowledge of clinical biomarker development and translational research.
Experience supporting translational aspects of preclinical and/or clinical programs.

• Background in neuroscience and neurodegenerative diseases.
• Exposure to one or more of the following areas:

• Parkinson’s disease
• Lewy body dementia
• Primary tauopathies
• Sleep/circadian biology in neurodegeneration

• Familiarity with fluid, imaging, or digital biomarkers.

Core Capabilities

• Strong ability to analyze and interpret biological data.
• Effective collaborator with the ability to work in cross‑functional teams.
• Clear communicator with strong scientific presentation skills.
• High level of curiosity, accountability, and attention to detail.

Why Join Us?

You will be part of a collaborative translational science team working at the forefront of neurodegenerative disease research. This role offers the opportunity to build expertise across modalities and disease areas while contributing directly to programs aimed at improving patient outcomes.

Salary Transparency

The annual base salary range for the Associate Director, Translational Science (Neurology) is from $168,200 to $220,700. Under current guidelines, this position is eligible to participate in the Eisai Inc. Annual Incentive Plan and Eisai Inc. Long Term Incentive Plan. Final pay determinations will depend on various factors including but not limited to experience level, education, knowledge, and skills. Employees are eligible to participate in company employee benefit programs.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Eisai is an equal opportunity employer and is committed in policy and in practice to recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status. Eisai prohibits discrimination against persons because of disability, including disabled veterans. Eisai Inc. participates in E‑Verify.