Senior Scientist / Matrix Lead Brain-Shuttle (m/f/d)

Position Overview

The Science and Matrix Leader (m/f/d) in Roche's Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development (pRED) organization will translate disease biology into high‑quality drug candidates for CNS disorders. The role leads cross‑functional teams and drives the implementation of cutting‑edge cell‑based functional assays.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire cross‑functional matrix teams, fostering collaboration and cultivating relationships with internal and external partners.
• Define cellular assay strategy for neuroscience projects and oversee data analysis for mode‑of‑action studies and in‑vitro lead selection.
• Develop novel functional cellular assays in neuroscience, using advanced read‑out technologies such as flow cytometry, advanced fluorescence microscopy, and live‑cell imaging.
• Provide scientific leadership in translational human cellular model systems to characterize blood‑brain barrier transport, CNS target engagement, pharmacodynamics, and mechanisms of action.
• Evolve innovative therapeutic concepts for CNS diseases, including biologics designed for blood‑brain barrier transport and brain delivery via Brainshuttle and related technologies.
• Collaborate with project teams and platform experts to advance innovative therapeutic concepts for CNS diseases.
• Work with digital and computational approaches for multiparameter data analysis in semi‑automated workflows; evaluate high‑throughput screening platforms and large data analysis.

Qualifications

• PhD in biology with a focus in neuroscience or a related scientific discipline.
• Extensive industrial experience in large‑molecule and gene therapy drug discovery, focusing on a neuroscience‑relevant portfolio.
• Demonstrated ability to design and lead cross‑functional matrix teams, ideally as a project leader in drug discovery.
• Expertise in flow cytometry, live‑cell imaging (e.g., Incucyte), and advanced fluorescence microscopy (confocal, super‑resolution, FLIM, smFISH, high‑content imaging).
• Strong background in cell biology and neuroscience, with deep understanding of blood‑brain barrier biology and biologics delivery to the CNS.
• Experience with Brainshuttle or related receptor‑mediated transport technologies across the blood‑brain barrier.
• Experience developing and applying translational in‑vitro model systems to evaluate brain delivery, CNS exposure, target engagement, and pharmacological activity.
• Proficiency in high‑throughput screening platforms and large data analysis.
• Published scientific contributions, patents, or publications in leading journals in the field.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a resourceful, innovative, and flexible problem‑solving approach.

Roche is an Equal Opportunity Employer.