Director, GEM strategy and oversight

Position: Director, Research, Comparative Medicine

Role:  Genetically Engineering Model Program Strategy and Oversight

Live

What you will do

Let’s do this. Let’s change the world.

Overview:

We are looking for a highly motivated and accomplished scientific leader to oversee the Genetic Engineering Model (GEM) program at Amgen. This leader will play a critical role in overseeing and streamlining our GEM program. The director will mentor Amgen scientists and external business partners to develop and execute robust genotyping capabilities. The goals are to drive innovation and data integrity, address current gaps, improve efficiency, comply fully with the 3Rs, and support Amgen’s mission of advancing transformative therapies for patients.

The successful candidate will possess extensive expertise in genetically engineered animals and cell line models, molecular biology, and genome engineering. Additionally, a demonstrated capability to lead cross-functional teams and collaborative projects is needed. This position is remote, with travel necessary between Amgen sites in Thousand Oaks, South San Francisco, and other locations as needed.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for GEM generation and genotyping programs, in partnership with Amgen scientists and leadership.
• Act as the single point of contact (SPOC) for GEM oversight, driving cross-functional collaboration and alignment across teams and stakeholders. 
• Act at Amgen's GEM program SME - set strategy, audit and certify every active line against research goals and partner with internal line owners and external CROs to continuously confirm and refine genotyping technologies. Diagnose and resolve issues in existing line to keep accuracy in genotyping, breeding schemes, and foundational data essential for research success
• Recommend and drive the implementation of advanced technologies for genotyping, genome analysis, and GEM creation, ensuring alignment with Amgen’s scientific and operational goals.   
• Partner with the External Animal Welfare Senior Director to govern all GEM external vendors driving continuous improvement in CRO performance, cost and speed while acting as the primary scientific liaison to external collaborators to ensure full alignment with Amgen's quality and animal welfare standards
• Work with cross-functional scientists and teams to improve processes, reduce inefficiencies, and allow scientists to concentrate on their research activities.
• Establish and check key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate and improve the effectiveness and impact of the GEM program.
• Offer strategic guidance, regular updates, and technical presentations to senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Prioritize projects and distribute resources following Amgen’s needs.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and mentorship, supporting career development and empowering team members to excel. 
• Travel as needed between Amgen sites in Thousand Oaks, South San Francisco, and other locations to support program initiatives and team collaboration.

Win

What we expect of you

We are all different, yet we all use our unique contributions to serve patients.

Basic Qualifications:

Doctorate degree PhD OR PharmD OR MD [and relevant post-doc where applicable] and 5 years of MS or equivalent experience
OR
Master’s degree and 8 years of MS or equivalent experience
OR
Bachelor’s degree and 10 years of MS or equivalent experience

Preferred Qualifications:

•  ≥ 15 years of GEM and drug discovery experience
• Experience leading and mentoring early discovery research scientists in molecular biology techniques, genotyping strategies, and data analysis through both direct and matrix management, resulting in the successful development and implementation of multiple innovative genetic models that enhanced research efficiency and scientific outcomes.
• Experience working through external business partners to ensure compliance with animal care and welfare standards is aligned with company standards.

• Proven ability to lead and deliver results through influence rather than formal authority
• Comfortable with setting and driving functional strategy and leading cross-functional individuals and teams through execution.
• Expertise in resolving challenging and complex genetic models.
• External visibility as a genetic engineering model expert as proven by a strong external presentation and publication record.

Thrive

What you can expect of us

As we work to develop treatments that take care of others, we also work to care for our teammates’ professional and personal growth and well-being. 

The expected annual salary range for this role in the U.S. (excluding Puerto Rico) is posted. Actual salary will vary based on several factors, including but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, and qualifications. 

Amgen offers a Total Rewards Plan comprising health and welfare plans for staff and eligible dependents, financial plans with opportunities to save towards retirement or other goals, work/life balance, and career development opportunities including: 

• Comprehensive employee benefits package, including a Retirement and Savings Plan with generous company contributions, group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts. 

• A discretionary annual bonus program. 

• Stock-based long-term incentives. 

• Award-winning time-off plans and bi-annual company-wide shutdowns. 

• Flexible work models, including remote work arrangements, where possible. 

Apply now

for a career that defies imagination

Objects in your future are closer than they appear. Join us.

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Application deadline

Amgen does not have an application deadline for this position; we will continue accepting applications until we receive a sufficient number or select a candidate for the position.

As an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people around the world, Amgen fosters an inclusive environment of diverse, ethical, committed and highly accomplished people who respect each other and live the Amgen values to continue advancing science to serve patients. Together, we compete in the fight against serious disease.

Amgen is an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.