AstraZeneca

Project Toxicologist, Director – Oncology Targeted Delivery (OTD) Safety Science, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences

US - Waltham - MA Full time

Director, Project Toxicologist – Oncology Targeted Delivery (OTD) Safety Science

Location: Boston Area, MA (60% hybrid onsite)

At AstraZeneca, our bold ambition is nothing less than to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. Our pioneering pipeline of oncology medicines reflects this mission, and our Oncology Targeted Delivery (OTD) Safety team plays a critical role in accelerating transformative therapies to patients.

We are seeking a highly motivated and passionate Director, Project Toxicologist to join our OTD Safety group. This role focuses on novel targeted oncology therapies, including Radio Conjugates, Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs), and Small Molecules. While experience with Radio Conjugates is particularly valued, candidates with other modality expertise are encouraged to apply.

You will partner with cross-functional teams across Oncology R&D, bridging discovery and regulatory toxicology, driving innovative safety strategies, and accelerating drug development. Your expertise will inform candidate selection, guide regulatory strategy, and help define the future of oncology safety science.

What You’ll Do

  • Lead regulatory and investigative toxicology study design, developing strategies to predict, assess, and mitigate target- and modality-related safety risks.

  • Apply your toxicology expertise to predict clinical safety risks and support data-driven decisions across discovery and development programs.

  • Innovate at the intersection of regulatory toxicology and cutting-edge science, leveraging in vitro, in silico, in vivo, and emerging technologies like organ-on-chip, imaging, and omics.

  • Communicate integrated risk assessments to governance bodies and contribute to regulatory submissions.

  • Maintain and expand expertise in regulatory standards, preclinical safety, and modality-specific safety science, staying ahead of industry trends.

  • Provide strategic toxicology input for in-licensing evaluations and external collaborations.

  • Drive Oncology Safety science through internal and external collaborations, publications, and thought leadership.

Education/Experience Requirements

  • PhD and/or DABT in Toxicology, Pharmacology, Oncology, or related fields with a strong scientific track record.

  • 10+ years’ experience in Project Toxicology, Investigative Toxicology, or related safety-focused roles in pharma, biotech, or CRO environments.

  • Deep understanding of oncology drug discovery and development, with proven ability to deliver toxicology programs supporting IND filings.

  • Expertise in Radio Conjugates or ADCs preferred, with familiarity in small molecule oncology therapeutics.

  • Skilled in using in vitro, in silico, and in vivo tools to predict clinical safety risks.

  • Collaborative, problem-solving mindset with the ability to coordinate across multiple projects and geographies.

  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills to inform decisions across scientific and regulatory teams.

  • Commitment to inclusion, diversity, and team development, supporting AstraZeneca’s Great Place to Work objectives.

Why Join AstraZeneca?

AstraZeneca is where science meets data to develop bold solutions that make a tangible difference. We challenge the status quo by digging deep into data using cutting-edge methodologies to drive scientific breakthroughs. Our high-exposure roles allow us to shape deliverables while embracing global opportunities across all Therapy Areas. With a restless need for improvement, we foster an inspiring learning environment where every setback is an opportunity for growth. We combine specialist knowledge with curiosity, always searching for better ways to achieve the best results. Our dedication ensures that we put patients first while expanding our knowledge through collaboration across functions.

If you are ready to make a meaningful difference in cancer treatment, we want you on our team.

Apply today and help us transform the future of oncology!

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $178,540.80 and $267,811.20 USD Annual. However, 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) or to receive a retirement contribution (hourly 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 salary (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

06-Mar-2026

Closing Date

19-Mar-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.