Executive Director, In Vivo Cell Therapy Innovation, Cell Therapy Thematic Research Center
Cambridge, MAPosted Jul 9, 2026
Working with Us
Challenging. Meaningful. Life-changing. Those aren’t words that are usually associated with a job. But working at Bristol Myers Squibb is anything but usual. Here, uniquely interesting work happens every day, in every department. From optimizing a production line to the latest breakthroughs in cell therapy, this is work that transforms the lives of patients, and the careers of those who do it. You’ll get the chance to grow and thrive through opportunities uncommon in scale and scope, alongside high-achieving teams. Take your career farther than you thought possible.
Bristol Myers Squibb recognizes the importance of balance and flexibility in our work environment. We offer a wide variety of competitive benefits, services and programs that provide our employees with the resources to pursue their goals, both at work and in their personal lives. Read more: careers.bms.com/working-with-us.
Position Summary:
The Executive Director will lead a high-performing team of scientists to advance innovative therapeutic strategies in non-viral in vivo cell engineering. This role is responsible for driving the discovery and early development of next-generation in vivo cell therapy drug candidates, with a focus on translating cutting-edge science into impactful clinical and business outcomes.
Position Responsibilities:
In the role as Executive Director, In Vivo Cell Therapy Innovation within the Cell Therapy Research Team, the ideal candidate:
* Applies leading-edge and significant knowledge of cell therapy engineering and gene editing principles in to lead highly complex projects involving multi-disciplinary groups and external parties/organizations
* Is recognized as an influential authority across the company and in the external scientific community in the fields of gene editing, cell therapy, and in vivo therapeutic modalities
* Recognizes and champions programs and initiatives to support strategic research goals and direction across multiple disciplines and capabilities within the in vivo therapy space
* Delivers results that have a measurable impact on company performance strategically, financially, and operationally — translating cutting-edge science into viable therapeutic programs
* Serves as a subject matter expert providing strategic and functional guidance across cell-based therapeutic approaches, gene editing platforms, and non-viral delivery systems.
* Is a proven leader whose expertise is sought after by the external community — including academic institutions, biotech partners, and industry consortia
* Acts as a role model for a culture of responsible risk-taking, scientific curiosity, and bold innovation
* Is actively involved in initiatives that encourage and develop scientific capability in others, fostering the next generation of in vivo therapy researchers
Experience =
Basic Qualifications:
* Master’s Degree
* 20+ years of academic and / or industry experience
Or
* Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in the Life Sciences
* 15+ years of academic and / or industry experience
* 10+ years of leadership experience preferred
Preferred Qualifications:
* Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related field
* Extensive expertise in gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR/Cas systems, base editing, prime editing, or related platforms)
* Demonstrated experience leading and developing teams of scientists, including senior-level and independent researchers
* Proven track record of advancing cell therapy therapy programs from concept through research milestones
* Strong publication and/or patent record reflecting scientific leadership and innovation in relevant fields
* Experience engaging with external collaborators, academic partners, and/or industry organizations
* Familiarity with regulatory frameworks relevant to gene editing and in vivo therapies (IND-enabling studies, FDA/EMA guidance)
*...