Medical Director, Early Clinical Development, Oncology

Do you have expertise in, and passion for early stage clinical development?

Are you looking to work at the cutting-edge, where scientific innovations and an entrepreneurial spirit are the norm?

Join the team at the heart of AstraZeneca that is committed and encouraged to follow the science in Oncology R&D.

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies.

We have a bold ambition to provide cures for cancer in every form. We are following the science to understand cancer and all its complexities to discover, develop and deliver life-changing treatments and increase the potential to save the lives of people around the world.

One area of significant investment is to build internal infrastructure to be a leader in next generation of products in Oncology. Using historical expertise in biologics engineering, gene editing and immune expertise across solid and hematological malignancies, AstraZeneca is uniquely positioned to develop the best technologies and is already growing a differentiated pipeline.

About Early Clinical Development Medical Directors

Our Medical Directors, at all levels, possess a clinical background and are driven by science and the desire to develop novel therapies for cancer patients to work in our dynamic Early Clinical Development team.

You will have a proficiency in the drug development process, particularly early phase clinical trials, protocol writing and study conduct, data review and reconciliation, and what it takes to lead teams successfully. This position offers the opportunity for growth and development while working in a vibrant environment.

AstraZeneca is in a period of tremendous growth and acceleration in the oncology portfolio. This is a fast-paced and dynamic work environment where, with growing levels of responsibility. Typical responsibilities may include:

• Provide long-range clinical planning in early clinical trial development, planning and managing of clinical research projects and clinical development programs in oncology.
• Serve as the Project Medical Monitor while working in a cross functional environment with representatives from other involved line functions as well as Late-Stage Development.
• Contribute to and support Department/Clinical initiatives to improve the quality and content of all clinical programs as well as the cross functional/organization processes designed to effectively deliver our R&D portfolio.
• Establish and approve scientific methods for design and implementation of applicable clinical protocols, data collection systems, and final reports;
• Play a role in designing clinical development plans and overall strategy for compounds, therapeutic classes of compounds or indications in light of developments in the area of clinical and pharmaceutical oncology;
• Participate in identification, selection and conduct of negotiations with clinical research centers and investigators;
• Participate in the selection and management activities of CROs; Supervise project team members in planning, conducting and evaluating clinical trials;
• Lead all aspects of planning and management of investigator meetings, advisory boards and other scientific committees.

Essential Requirements

• M. D degree or equivalent. Strong preference for individuals with clinical training in oncology or hemato-oncology
• At least 3 years of experience in clinical research and/or oncology drug development in pharmaceutical, academic or CRO environment.

Preferred Requirements

• PhD in a relevant research area is preferred.
• Significant experience in the pharmaceutical/life sciences industry in a function aligned to clinical development and early or late stage clinical trials
• Medical specialty and sub-specialty training and Board Certification
• Excellent oral and written skills, strong interpersonal and listening skills with a focus on results and sound outcomes
• Proven leadership skills and demonstrated ability to interact collaboratively in a cross-functional environment.
• High level of emotional intelligence; able to deal with ambiguity
• Able to relate to varied level audiences across the organization; able to set priorities for team and maintain accountability; skillful in negotiating organizational boundaries and hierarchy; able to build effective teams
• Experience in molecular oncology and/or translational science

The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $249,827 to $374,740. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.

Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles).

Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.

Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

• Date Posted
• 30-Sept-2026
• Closing Date
• 06-Oct-2026

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.