Job Title: Director, Discovery & Translational Research
About Us:
The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF) is dedicated to accelerating a cure for Parkinson’s disease and improved therapies for those living with the condition today. The Foundation pursues its goals through an aggressively funded, highly targeted research program coupled with active global engagement of scientists, Parkinson's patients, business leaders, clinical trial participants, donors, and volunteers. Since our founding in 2000, MJFF has grown into the largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson’s research ― having funded $1.75 billion in research to date ― and fundamentally altered the trajectory of progress toward a cure.
Visit www.michaeljfox.org for more information.
Position Summary:
The Michael J. Fox Foundation (“MJFF”) is seeking top talent for its Director, Discovery & Translational Research position. This position will be responsible for driving The Foundation’s strategic research investments in de-risking targets and therapeutic programs for Parkinson’s disease (PD). Reporting to the VP of Discovery and Translational Research, the position will require working closely with a diverse set of cross-functional internal and external stakeholders including “MJFF’s” Clinical, Alliances and Resources Teams, Industry Partners, and other advisors. The position will actively contribute to “MJFF’s” mission through developing high-impact funding and non-funding programs that advance a robust therapeutic pipeline for Parkinson’s disease.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conceptualizes and leads a creative and solutions-focused scientific agenda for a major departmental program, leveraging input from the internal team and external advisors
- Oversees and ensures smooth execution of programs through all stages from concept development, review process, grants contracting and milestone management, troubleshooting and problem solving as issues arise
- Communicates research findings and impact of “MJFF’s” biomarkers portfolio to internal and external stakeholders
- Maintains intelligence on scientific advances and challenges through attendance at meetings and reviewing the PD scientific literature
- Builds strong relationships with key stakeholders in the PD discovery, therapeutics, patient, and external funder communities
- Works closely with Department Head to conceptualize & implement new initiatives that fill the PD discovery and translational research knowledge gaps
- Supports department management in operational and budgetary planning, actively contributes to strategic planning efforts, assists with resource allocation, and plays a key role in ensuring the successful execution of programs
- Ensures cohesive programmatic strategy which is aligned across sub-teams within the Discovery-Translational Research Department, across other Research Departments within Business Unit and across MJFF-external partner initiatives.
- Ensure a cohesive programmatic strategy that aligns across sub-teams within the Discovery-Translational Research Department, other Research Departments within the Business Unit, and MJFF-external partner initiatives
- Develop a small team through goal setting, management, coaching, mentoring, feedback, and training to enhance the team skills
Qualifications and Skills:
- PhD in neuroscience or related discipline
- 6+ years of relevant work experience in biopharma, healthcare consulting or non-profit organizations
- Proven track record of success in scientific management of large programs and initiatives and operating at both strategic and tactical levels
- Demonstrated ability to lead, manage and develop team members
- Ability to collaborate cross-functionally, and drive alignment with internal and external stakeholders
- Demonstrated initiative and independence to identify short and long-term program needs, creatively formulate plans with cross-functional input, efficiently achieve timely decisions/alignment
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to articulate program vision and ensure broader organization is aligned with and aware of program strategy, status, and risks
- Excellent problem-solving skills
How We Work:
We have two ways of working: hybrid-flex, or remote work. We trust all employees to collaborate with their manager and colleagues to determine when, where and how your work, programs and projects get done.
Salary & Discretionary Bonus:
The salary range for this position is $130,000-$150,000. All full-time employees are also eligible for a discretionary bonus on an annual basis based on individual and organizational performance and are generally prorated based on your start date.
Benefits:
The Michael J. Fox Foundation offers a comprehensive benefits package. You are eligible to participate on the first day of the following month from your hire date in the following benefits:
- Selection from 15+ medical insurance options with the foundation covering 90 percent of the premiums for both the employees and their eligible dependents
- Comprehensive dental and vision plans
- Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (HCFSA and DCFSA)
- Commuter benefits
- Employer-paid life insurance, which is twice the amount of an employee's base salary, and disability insurance
- Voluntary benefits include legal, accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity coverage
- Employees are also eligible to enroll year-round for pet insurance, discounts on auto and home insurance, personal excess liability coverage, and identity theft protection
Time away to rest and recharge!
- 18 days Paid Time Off (PTO)
- 12 Well-Being/Sick days
- 10 Paid Holidays that are fixed
- Virtual and Home offices closed July 4th Summer Holiday Week
- One Personal Day/Day of Recognition
- Summer Fridays from Memorial Day to Labor Day; NY offices close at 2pm ET
401K - After three months of employment, you may participate in our 401K planng the first day of the following month. The foundation will contribute 6 percent of an employee's total compensation, this includes salary and bonus.
Training & Development:
Regular training courses and events are offered by The Michael J. Fox Foundation to cultivate our staff and leadership.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and thoughtful cover letter describing through examples, their specific qualifications and interest in the position. If you think that your skills are transferable and can add value to this role, please apply. Applicants who best match the position’s needs will be contacted.
Vaccine Statement:
At The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF), the health and safety of our team and our community is a priority. All employees are required to be fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus, subject to any legally required accommodation.
Research has shown that people from marginalized communities apply to roles only when they meet 100 percent of the job requirements. If you think that your skills are transferable and can add value to this role, and you are someone who will contribute to our efforts to build and support a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce, we strongly encourage you to apply.