Scientific Director / Senior Scientific Director

Job Description

The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research, a public charity based in New York City, actively partners with scientists worldwide to accelerate research that will transform cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Since 2017, The Mark Foundation has awarded over $300 million in grants to investigators at more than one hundred academic institutions across sixteen countries, with research programs focusing on early career support, team science collaboration, new technology innovation, and therapeutics discovery. Additionally, The Mark Foundation maintains a growing portfolio of investments in early-stage cancer diagnostics and therapeutics companies, including several that have transitioned from grantee projects into commercial development.

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As The Mark Foundation continues to expand its global research portfolio, we are seeking an accomplished scientist to join our team as a Scientific Director or Senior Scientific Director, depending on the candidate’s experience and qualifications, to help shape the future of cancer research and expand the philanthropic support that fuels it. This individual will partner with world-renowned investigators to identify transformative scientific opportunities, guide innovative strategies to support the foundation’s growth, and accelerate discoveries that improve the lives of patients worldwide.

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This is a unique opportunity for an accomplished scientist to influence the future of cancer research beyond the scope of a single laboratory. The successful candidate will help shape one of the world’s leading philanthropic cancer research portfolios, working alongside internationally recognized investigators to identify transformative discoveries, launch innovative funding initiatives, and accelerate advances that improve the lives of patients worldwide.

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Key Areas of Ownership:

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Research Leadership

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• Identify, evaluate, and prioritize global opportunities in basic, translational, and clinical science for potential research grants and funding initiatives.
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• Direct and manage a portfolio of scientific grants and research projects, engaging with academic investigators, assessing project proposals, and tracking progress.
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• Develop and implement new funding programs aligned with the Foundation’s strategic mission.
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• Plan and execute scientific events, including annual symposia and workshops, to facilitate partner and donor engagement.
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• Monitor emerging scientific discoveries and identify opportunities that can shape the Foundation's future research investments.
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Scientific & Collaborative Engagement

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• Build and maintain relationships with global thought leaders, donors, academic institutions, industry partners, and other nonprofit organizations.
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• Connect academic research partners with the Foundation’s network and external experts to accelerate the pace of discovery and address key scientific challenges.
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• Represent the Foundation at scientific meetings, conferences, and high-level discussions, serving as a spokesperson for our research initiatives and partnership and fundraising efforts.
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• Facilitate collaboration between grantees and partners to translate discoveries into tangible outcomes.
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Research Oversight & Evaluation

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• Lead scientific reviews and evaluations of grant applications, ensuring alignment with the Foundation's strategic priorities and scientific standards.
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• Oversee and track the progress of funded projects, ensuring milestones are met and helping to assess and communicate the impact of research investments.
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• Provide scientific and technical due diligence for the Foundation's venture investment portfolio, evaluating emerging oncology companies for scientific merit and commercial potential.
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Qualifications & Skills for Success

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• Doctoral degree in life sciences (PhD, MD, or equivalent).
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• At least five years of life sciences research experience following doctoral studies; 10+ years of experience and cancer research experience are highly desirable.
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• Demonstrated track record of scientific accomplishments, including publications in high-impact journals.
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• Deep expertise in cancer biology, translational research, and/or clinical oncology.
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• Familiarity with cutting-edge technologies, platforms, and methodologies in cancer research.
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• Strong strategic thinking and ability to assess and prioritize research funding opportunities.
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• Proven ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
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• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with experience engaging scientific and non-scientific audiences.
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• Background in biotechnology, venture investment, industry partnerships, or fundraising and philanthropy is a plus.
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• Approximately 15–20% domestic and international travel for scientific meetings, site visits, and Foundation events.
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• Candidates will be considered at either the Scientific Director or Senior Scientific Director level, with title and responsibilities determined based on experience, qualifications, and demonstrated leadership.
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Compensation & Benefits

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• The anticipated annual base salary range is $150K–$250K, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
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• Comprehensive and competitive benefits package.
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• 401K with employer match.
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We encourage interested candidates to apply early, as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position will remain open until filled. To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter to View email address on ziprecruiter.com.

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This job description outlines the general requirements for the position but is not an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed to support smooth operations. All applications will be kept confidential in accordance with EEO guidelines. Candidates must have the legal right to work in the United States permanently (those on a visa are not eligible).