Head Cell Culture Development

A healthier future. It's what drives us to innovate. To continuously advance science and ensure everyone has access to the healthcare they need today and for generations to come. Creating a world where we all have more time with the people we love. That's what makes us Roche!

As a key member of the Roche Gene Therapy Technical R&D Leadership Team, the Head of Cell Culture Development is responsible for and leads the strategic and scientific direction for Cell Line Development, Applied Viral Technologies, Cell Culture Process Development, Process Validation and In-process control strategies.

The remit spans the entire development continuum-from DevGo/CLS (clinical lead selection) through to commercialization (BLA/MAA submissions) and post-market warranty phase.

The Head of Cell Culture Development is accountable for the design and implementation of ground breaking technologies, including producer cell lines, novel viral vector manufacturing platforms, and scalable cell culture processes. This work is carried out in close collaboration with teams across research, clinical manufacturing, and commercial production.

The role also carries scientific ownership of these areas within regulatory filings, ensuring that dossiers for gene therapeutics reflect the highest standards of innovation, quality, and compliance.

Scientific Leadership & Innovation

• Leads and oversees innovation projects and technical advancements within the domain

• Serves as a subject matter expert and trusted advisor on complex scientific and strategic topics

• Ensures integration of the latest scientific knowledge and technological breakthroughs into the development pipeline

People & Culture Leadership

• Builds, develops, and mentors high-performing, globally distributed teams, aligned with VACC and Roche Leadership principles

• Fosters a culture where science and innovation thrive

• Empowers and inspires teams to reach their full potential and deliver on ambitious goals

• Leads organizational transformation, guiding teams through change with purpose and clarity

Strategic and Operational Accountability

• Owns the department's output, budget, and operational performance as part of the broader Gene Therapy Technical R&D organization

• Drives resource planning, performance optimization, and continuous improvement

• Proactively shapes the organizational structure and operating model to meet evolving business needs

• This is a mission-critical leadership role for a dynamic and strategic thinker-someone who brings deep scientific expertise, strong business acumen, and a passion for making a real-world impact in the lives of patients through gene therapy innovation.

• Master degree with 15+ years or PhD with 10+ years of experience

• In depth experience in In Vivo Gene Therapy, cell culture development of biopharmaceuticals and viral vectors, cell line development and synthetic biology

• An inspiring, visionary and authentic leader with extensive leadership experience in matrixed and direct line management setups

Relocation benefits are available for this posting

The following information is relevant for the United States only. This does not apply to the role if it is based in Penzberg, Germany:

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of Philadelphia, PA is $163,200 to $303,200 annually. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Benefits

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.