Principal Scientist - Toxicology

  • Novo Nordisk
  • Lexington, Massachusetts
  • Full Time

About the Department

Our Boston Research & Development hub, anchored in the greater Boston area, brings together the best minds in life science innovation. The teams located in facilities in Lexington, Watertown and Cambridge reflect the full R&D continuum, from early research through late-stage clinical development. Here, we are building for the future, creating a distinct R&D community based on collaboration, partnerships, and cutting-edge research across multiple modalities and therapeutic areas. We recognize that improving human health starts here and that patients rely on us. Our greater Boston R&D hub merges biotech speed and agility with large pharmaceutical company quality, resources, and stability, uniting the best of both worlds to develop new medicines for patients.

The team is comprised of collaborative, diverse and passionate people who have a true sense of pride in their work and are committed to helping others grow and develop their careers. Youll also have a platform to engage with key stakeholders on a global scale throughout the entire pipeline process. And while changing the future of diabetes, obesity and MASH treatment is no easy task, we also recognize the importance of an enjoyable workplace, which is why weve cultivated a culture of fun, ingenuity and innovation. And our competitive compensation package and support of a healthy work-life balance all add to a best-in-class employee experience. Are you ready to make a difference?

The Position

This role is an opportunity to pioneer Novo Nordisks strategy for small molecule early safety assessment. The position (Principal Scientist) requires a candidate with deep subject matter expertise in exploratory/mechanistic toxicology for small molecules, and an entrepreneurial spirit to work in the companys new and growing small molecule pipeline. This role will be responsible for small molecule early safety evaluation; developing and improving in vitro and in vivo methods; in vitro / in vivo screening to support lead candidate selection.

The candidate will be the nonclinical development areas subject matter expert crafting Novo Nordisks strategy for early investigative/exploratory toxicology. They will serve a critical advisory function by communicating evaluations and implications across the value chain of Novo Nordisks small molecule pipeline.

The role requires in-depth understanding of subject matter & relationship to other key areas related to small molecule drug development; expert-level guidance for project team related to experimental strategies to evaluate emerging targets or technologies related to small molecules; preparation and review of non-clinical safety sections of regulatory submissions as relevant; propose & oversee external collaborations & strategic partnerships to further company goals related to therapeutic or technology area.

Relationships

Reports to the head of Novo Nordisk GDDS Boston toxicology department. Will work closely with project teams, peer experts, scientific leadership, and other colleagues across global R&D. Individual may direct the work of other staff members. Individuals will interact with external research collaborators both academia- & industry-based.

Essential Functions

  • Lead Small Molecule Exploratory Toxicology Strategy Implementation
    • Develop and oversee the execution of early non-clinical safety strategies for the small molecule pipeline
    • Ensure alignment with relevant GxP requirements and regulatory standards
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate safety strategies into broader drug development plans
  • Design and Manage Exploratory/Investigative Toxicology and Safety Pharmacology Studies
    • Supervise the execution of in vitro and in vivo studies to assess safety profiles
    • Analyze and interpret complex data to inform safety assessments and decision-making
  • Advisory and Mentorship
    • Provide expert advisory functions on non-clinical safety matters to senior colleagues and stakeholders
    • Mentor and guide colleagues in developing their expertise in non-clinical safety
  • Problem Solving and Innovation
    • Identify and solve complex safety-related problems using a broad perspective
    • Recommend innovative solutions and best practices to improve safety evaluation processes
    • Stay abreast of industry trends and advancements to maintain cutting-edge expertise

Qualifications

  • Masters degree with 12+ years of relevant experience, or PhD with 8+ years of relevant experience required.
  • Experience as a small molecule toxicologist project team member.
  • Proven expertise in small molecule exploratory toxicology.
  • Strong background in in vitro assays or in silico analysis.
  • Experience working with cross functional teams and can communicate findings/results to non-SMEs.
  • Experience in regulatory toxicology and understanding of ICH guidelines is advantageous.
  • Interprets complex internal and external business issues to recommend best practices.
  • Solves complex problems with a broad perspective, identifying innovative solutions.
  • Develops and improves in vitro and in vivo methods for non-clinical safety evaluation.
  • Communicates evaluations and implications of non-clinical safety findings effectively.
  • Acts as a mentor for colleagues, fostering expertise within the organization.
The base compensation range for this position is $148,290 to $259,510. Base compensation is determined based on a number of factors. This position is also eligible for a company bonus based on individual and company performance. Novo Nordisk offers long-term incentive compensation and or company vehicles depending on the position's level or other company factors. Employees are also eligible to participate in Company employee benefit programs including medical, dental and vision coverage; life insurance; disability insurance; 401(k) savings plan; flexible spending accounts; employee assistance program; tuition reimbursement program; and voluntary benefits such as group legal, critical illness, identity theft protection, pet insurance and auto/home insurance. The Company also offers time off pursuant to its sick time policy, flex-able vacation policy, and parental leave policy.

We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants.

At Novo Nordisk we recognize that it is no longer good enough to aspire to be the best company in the world. We need to aspire to be the best company for the world and we know that this is only possible with talented employees with diverse perspectives, backgrounds and cultures. We are therefore committed to creating an inclusive culture that celebrates the diversity of our employees, the patients we serve and communities we operate in. Together, were life changing.

Novo Nordisk is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal laws, rules or regulations.

If you are interested in applying to Novo Nordisk and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply, please call us at .... This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

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Job ID: 486230924
Originally Posted on: 7/21/2025

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