Sanofi
About the Role
The Translational In Vivo Models (TIM) department within Sanofi's R&D is seeking an exceptional Distinguished Scientist to lead our Transgenic Model & Technology (TMT) function globally. This strategic leadership role will drive innovation in genome engineering and genetically modified model development to accelerate drug discovery across all therapeutic divisions.
Being responsible in this role you will ensure our organization remains at the forefront of technical developments in genome engineering, enabling breakthrough discoveries in immunology, immuno-inflammation, rare diseases, neuroscience, and oncology. You will serve as a key scientific advisor and strategic thinker, shaping the direction of in vivo and preclinical research programs while championing the integration of emerging technologies — including AI and digital platforms — into transgenic science.
This role is based in Frankfurt/M. and is primarily office/lab-based.
About Sanofi
We are an innovative global healthcare company, chasing the miracles of science to improve people's lives. Our team, across some 100 countries, is dedicated to transforming the practice of medicine by working to turn the impossible into the possible. We provide potentially life-changing treatment options and life-saving vaccine protection to millions of people globally, while putting sustainability and social responsibility at the center of our ambitions. Sanofi is guided by four core values: Aim Higher, Act for Patients, Be Bold, and Lead Together.
Main Responsibilities
Scientific Leadership & Innovation
• Lead and advance state-of-the-art genome engineering techniques and mouse genetics applications for in vivo model development supporting discovery and developmental research
• Apply personal expertise in transgenesis and CRISPR technology to devise and execute sophisticated experimental strategies for target validation, proof-of-concept, and efficacy studies
• Identify, evaluate, and implement new technologies and innovations in transgenesis, CRISPR/Cas systems, and emerging genome engineering platforms
• Serve as a strategic thinker and scientific advisor to research projects across therapeutic areas, providing expert guidance on in vivo and preclinical study design
• Champion the integration of AI and digital technologies to enhance model design, data analysis, and predictive capabilities in transgenic research
• Cover a broad scientific scope including immunology and immuno-inflammation, rare diseases, neuroscience, molecular and immune-oncology, and all areas of cell and molecular biology pertaining to immunology and immune-oncology
Strategic Planning & Cross-Functional Leadership
• Demonstrate strategic thinking and orientation in aligning transgenic capabilities with organizational research priorities and long-term scientific goals
• Lead and coordinate transversal teams and projects across multiple therapeutic divisions, sites, and external partners
• Collaborate closely with the Head of Transgenic Division, drug discovery program leaders, cluster heads, and department heads to provide strategic scientific advice
• Drive budget planning, forecasting, and financial management to optimize resource allocation and operational efficiency
Operational Excellence & Partnership Management
• Establish and maintain comprehensive project management frameworks ensuring full-service delivery from model design through study-ready animal production
• Build and manage strategic relationships with model providers, CROs, and academic partners for development and delivery of genetically modified models
• Negotiate and oversee license agreements and partnership contracts for model acquisition and technology access
• Implement quality standards and continuous improvement initiatives to maintain operational excellence
People Leadership & Development
• Supervise, mentor, and develop staff members to build a high-performing team at the forefront of transgenic science
• Participate in talent management decisions including hiring, promotions, performance evaluations, and organizational development
• Foster a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning
About you
Education & Experience
• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Developmental Biology, or a related discipline
• Extensive post-doctoral or industry experience in mouse molecular genetics and transgenic animal model development
• Demonstrated track record of scientific leadership in an academic or pharmaceutical/biotech research environment
• Minimum of 5 years of demonstrated, hands-on experience performing this role.
Technical Expertise
• Deep expertise in developing transgenic animal models, including engineering diverse genetic alleles using CRISPR/Cas9, Cas12, base editors, prime editors, and other advanced genome engineering systems
• Comprehensive knowledge of both theoretical principles and practical methodologies required to lead a state-of-the-art transgenic facility
• Strong foundation in molecular biology, mouse genetics, embryology, and reproductive technologies
• Experience across multiple therapeutic areas (immunology, oncology, rare diseases, neuroscience preferred)
Leadership & Strategic Capabilities
• Proven strategic thinking and orientation with ability to align scientific capabilities with business objectives
• Demonstrated success leading transversal teams and managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects across sites and functions
• Established track record as a scientific thinker and advisor to in vivo and preclinical research programs
• Experience identifying, evaluating, and implementing new technologies and innovations in a research setting
• Familiarity with and application of AI and digital technologies in biological research, model design, and data analysis
Professional Skills
• Exceptional project management skills with ability to oversee multiple concurrent initiatives
• Strong contract negotiation and vendor management capabilities
• Excellent budget planning, financial management, and resource allocation skills
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) for effective collaboration across diverse, global stakeholders
• Proven ability to work in matrix organizations and influence without direct authority
Personal Attributes
• Self-motivated with demonstrated ability to lead and thrive in collaborative team environments
• Comfortable managing competing priorities and adapting to dynamic research needs
• Commitment to scientific excellence, integrity, and ethical research practices
• Passion for mentoring and developing scientific talent
• Candidates must be willing to travel as part of this position.
Why choose us?
#LI-Onsite
#TransgenicAnimalModels
Better is out there. Better medications, better outcomes, better science. But progress doesn’t happen without people – people from different backgrounds, in different locations, doing different roles, all united by one thing: a desire to make miracles happen. So, let’s be those people.
At Sanofi, we provide equal opportunities to all regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, ability or gender identity.
Watch our ALL IN video and check out our Diversity Equity and Inclusion actions at sanofi.com!
The salary range for this position is :€101,040.00 - €134,720
Final compensation will be determined based on demonstrated experience, skills, location, and other relevant factors. Employees may be eligible to participate in Company employee benefit programs.