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AbbVie's DJS-AbbVie Oxford site is seeking an experienced Principal Research Scientist I to lead the Novel Therapeutics Discovery – Functional Reprogramming team. Reporting to the Head of Novel Therapeutics, you will lead a team of 3+ drug discovery scientists, delivering translational pharmacodynamic data packages and drug candidates from conception through candidate nomination.
You will provide both people leadership and strategic scientific direction across a portfolio of immunology-focused assets, collaborating with stakeholders across discovery research, clinical development, development sciences, and precision medicine. Your responsibilities include developing and executing drug discovery strategy aligned with AbbVie's immunology priorities, building scientific capability within your team, and fostering a strong drug discovery mindset. You will serve as molecule lead on pipeline programs, providing cross-functional leadership as teams form around assets.
Key responsibilities: develop drug discovery strategy; lead and mentor a team of 3+ direct reports ranging from entry-level to senior scientists; build team scientific capability; act as molecule lead on pipeline programs; collaborate across immunology discovery, clinical development, and precision medicine functions; serve as a recognized scientific expert within AbbVie R&D in your specialist mechanism of action; mentor colleagues and support functional capability development; ensure high-quality project planning through sound experimental design and risk assessment; identify and evaluate emerging scientific trends; present scientific concepts to scientific and non-scientific audiences including senior stakeholders and external partners.
Required qualifications: demonstrated experience across multiple drug discovery programs; proven ability to function as a principal investigator generating original technical ideas and development strategies; creative and practical problem-solving skills with ability to champion new technologies; recognized expertise in your discipline internally and ideally externally; strong publication, presentation, regulatory, and/or patent record; excellent scientific communication and presentation skills including experience at leading scientific conferences; BS/MS or PhD in a relevant scientific area.
This role offers exposure to broad scientific challenges, close collaboration with experts across the organization, and the opportunity to shape the future of the discovery portfolio within a dynamic, ambitious team committed to scientific excellence and delivering meaningful patient impact.
