Job Title: Principal Scientist – Rare Metabolic and Neurological Diseases
Location: Cambridge, MA
About the Job
Join the engine of Sanofi’s mission — where deep immunoscience meets bold, AI-powered research. In R&D, you’ll drive breakthroughs that could turn the impossible into possible for millions.
We are seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist to drive innovation across our rare disease pipeline. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in and RNA biology—particularly RNA regulation, RNA-binding proteins, and associated molecular or computational approaches. This individual will lead efforts to uncover novel disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets through internal research and external collaborations. Working closely with cross-functional teams, this role will translate mechanistic insights into therapeutic strategies that advance our pipeline.
About Sanofi:
We’re an R&D-driven, AI-powered biopharma company committed to improving people’s lives and delivering compelling growth. Our deep understanding of the immune system – and innovative pipeline – enables us to invent medicines and vaccines that treat and protect millions of people around the world. Together, we chase the miracles of science to improve people’s lives.
Main Responsibilities
Build and lead discovery programs grounded in RNA biology and disease mechanisms
Design and lead the execution of in vitro and in vivo mechanistic and proof-of-concept studies to validate targets and evaluate therapeutic approaches
Generate high-quality data analyses, interpretations, documentation, and presentations to support program decisions, publications, patent filings, and regulatory submissions (e.g., IND/CTA)
Communicate progress and scientific findings across internal governance, external collaborators, and scientific audiences (e.g., conferences, publications)
About You
Basic Qualifications
Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in RNA biology, molecular/cellular biology, neuroscience, or a related field, and a minimum of 5+ years of post-doctoral experience in academic or biopharma research
Demonstrated to advance pipeline projects towards IND, with contributions to biological target discovery, mechanism-of-action studies, and translational research
Track record of scientific impact supported by publications, presentations, and/or program leadership
Preferred Qualifications
Experience leading projects and multidisciplinary teams in an industry environment
Deep expertise in RNA regulation and processing (e.g., splicing, stability, translation, transport), RNA-binding proteins, and regulatory RNAs
Established network across academic and clinical communities in rare neurological diseases
Familiarity with competitive landscapes, therapeutic strategies, and emerging technologies relevant to rare neurological diseases
Hands-on experience with relevant cellular and animal disease models
Experience with computational biology or large-scale ‘omics datasets
Experience managing external studies (e.g., CROs, academic collaborations)
Prior involvement in regulatory document drafting to support IND/CTA submissions
Skills and Competencies
Ability to lead and execute research independently while thriving in cross-functional, matrixed environments
Highly adaptable, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-moving research setting
Strong data interpretation and scientific problem-solving abilities
Clear and compelling written and verbal communicator
Collaborative mindset with the ability to build strong working relationships across disciplines
High attention to detail and commitment to rigorous, well-documented science
Why Choose Us?
Bring the miracles of science to life alongside a supportive, future-focused team.
Discover endless opportunities to grow your talent and drive your career, whether it’s through a promotion or lateral move, at home or internationally.
Enjoy a thoughtful, well-crafted rewards package that recognizes your contribution and amplifies your impact.
Take good care of yourself and your family, with a wide range of health and wellbeing benefits including high-quality healthcare, prevention and wellness programs and at least 14 weeks’ gender-neutral parental leave.
Sanofi Inc. and its U.S. affiliates are Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employers committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; creed; religion; national origin; age; ancestry; nationality; marital, domestic partnership or civil union status; sex, gender, gender identity or expression; affectional or sexual orientation; disability; veteran or military status or liability for military status; domestic violence victim status; atypical cellular or blood trait; genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing) or any other characteristic protected by law.
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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!
US and Puerto Rico Residents Only
Sanofi Inc. and its U.S. affiliates are Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employers committed to a culturally inclusive and diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; creed; religion; national origin; age; ancestry; nationality; natural or protective hairstyles; marital, domestic partnership or civil union status; sex, gender, gender identity or expression; affectional or sexual orientation; disability; veteran or military status or liability for military status; domestic violence victim status; atypical cellular or blood trait; genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing) or any other characteristic protected by law.
North America Applicants Only
The salary range for this position is:
$122,250.00 - $176,583.33All compensation will be determined commensurate with demonstrated experience. Employees may be eligible to participate in Company employee benefit programs. Additional benefits information can be found through the LINK.