Research Director Jobs in California
Research Director jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in biotechnology and life sciences, technology and AI research, public health, and academic medicine, with openings at every level from newly promoted associate director through senior and chief research officer. The largest hiring metros are San Francisco and the Bay Area, Los Angeles, and San Diego, where anchor institutions and employers such as UCSF, Genentech, and the RAND Corporation maintain deep, ongoing research leadership demand. The most in-demand specialties are clinical and translational research, AI and data science research, and health policy. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Research Director JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 63+ Research Director jobs
Join Amgen’s Mission of Serving Patients
At Amgen, if you feel like you’re part of something bigger, it’s because you are. Our shared mission—to serve patients living with serious illnesses—drives all that we do.
Since 1980, we’ve helped pioneer the world of biotech in our fight against the world’s toughest diseases. Amgen is advancing a broad and deep pipeline and portfolio of medicines to treat heart disease, obesity and obesity-related conditions, rare diseases, inflammatory conditions and cancer. As a member of the Amgen team, you’ll help make a lasting impact on the lives of patients as we research, manufacture, and deliver innovative medicines to help people live longer, fuller happier lives.
Our award-winning culture is collaborative, innovative, and science based. If you have a passion for challenges and the opportunities that lay within them, you’ll thrive as part of the Amgen team. Join us and transform the lives of patients while transforming your career.
Scientific Associate Director, Oncology Research
What you will do
Let’s do this. Let’s change the world. In this vital role you will develop and lead a portfolio of antibody-based large-molecule therapeutics for solid tumors. In this highly visible role, you will work across Research and Development to implement and advance next-generation approaches for cancer therapeutics.
You will have direct experience leading oncology T-cell engager (TCE) and/or antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) programs from discovery through development candidate nomination, including the use of translational biology to inform clinical development. A deep and broad understanding of cancer cell biology—including human genetics, tumor cell signaling, mechanisms of response and resistance, and translational pharmacology—will be essential.
You will lead project teams and external collaborations, shape discovery strategy, and inspire and develop a creative, dedicated research team. The successful candidate will be an exceptional scientific leader who can translate strategy into execution, influence decisions across functions, and deliver results in a fast-paced and evolving matrixed environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Define and lead preclinical research strategies for TCE and ADC therapies, including identification of novel target opportunities, prioritization of discovery investments, and advancement of programs toward development candidate nomination.
- Build and execute a cell-surface target discovery, prioritization, and validation strategy for pancreatic cancer, with the goal of establishing an innovative portfolio of first-in-class TCE and ADC therapies.
- Serve as Project Team Lead for Oncology portfolio programs, setting clear objectives and decision criteria, integrating cross-functional input, monitoring progress against milestones, and adapting strategy as new data emerges.
- Lead integrated cross-functional research plans across tumor biology, target validation, translational research, protein engineering, pharmacology, safety, clinical development, and commercial strategy. Apply translational biology to define patient populations, biomarkers, mechanisms of response and resistance, and development strategies, while anticipating and resolving complex scientific and programmatic challenges.
- Lead and develop a team of lab-based scientists, creating an inclusive, high-performing environment that promotes rigorous science, efficient execution, informed risk-taking, and professional growth.
- Shape Oncology Research strategy by identifying emerging scientific and industry trends, proposing new investment opportunities, and integrating enabling technologies—including computational biology and AI/ML—into target discovery, biological validation, and portfolio decisions.
- Establish productive external scientific collaborations and evaluate external innovation through scientific diligence in support of business-development and partnering opportunities.
- Communicate scientific strategy, evidence, risks, and recommendations clearly to project teams, governance bodies, senior management, collaborators, and external scientific audiences; lead development of governance materials, technical reports, publications, presentations, and patent applications.
What we expect of you
We are all different, yet we all use our unique contributions to serve patients. The Scientific leader we seek is a researcher with these qualifications.
Basic Qualifications:
Doctorate degree PhD
OR
PharmD
OR
MD [and relevant post-doc where applicable] and 4 years of [Job Code’s Discipline and/or Sub-Discipline] experience
OR
Master’s degree and 7 years of [Job Code’s Discipline and/or Sub-Discipline] experience
OR
Bachelor’s degree and 9 years of [Job Code’s Discipline and/or Sub-Discipline] experience
Preferred Qualifications:
- PhD or equivalent doctoral training in cancer biology, immunology, molecular biology, pharmacology, genetics, translational medicine, or related discipline.
- Demonstrated experience leading at least one oncology TCE and/or ADC program from target discovery through development candidate nomination or an equivalent major discovery milestone.
- Deep knowledge of solid-tumor biology, with experience in pancreatic cancer or other treatment-resistant solid tumors strongly preferred.
- Broad expertise in human cancer genetics, oncogenic signaling, tumor dependencies, tumor–immune biology, mechanisms of response and resistance, and translational pharmacology, with experience building rigorous target-validation packages using genetic, cellular, biochemical, in vivo, and human evidence.
- Strong understanding of antibody-based therapeutic discovery, particularly TCEs and/or ADCs, with working knowledge of protein engineering, pharmacology, safety assessment, biomarker development, and clinical-development considerations.
- Demonstrated ability to independently define decision-enabling experiments, establish clear success and stop criteria, interpret complex datasets, and translate evidence into balanced program and portfolio recommendations.
- Proven success leading cross-functional teams in a matrixed drug-discovery environment and managing, mentoring, and developing scientists within inclusive, high-performing teams; able to lead through change while balancing scientific rigor, speed, and portfolio impact.
- Track record of external collaboration, scientific diligence, and influential scientific communication, supported by publications, patents, invited presentations, or recognition as a subject-matter expert.
What you can expect of us
As we work to develop treatments that take care of others, we also work to care for your professional and personal growth and well-being. From our competitive benefits to our collaborative culture, we’ll support your journey every step of the way.
The expected annual salary range for this role in the U.S. (excluding Puerto Rico) is posted. Actual salary will vary based on several factors including but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, and qualifications.
In addition to the base salary, Amgen offers a Total Rewards Plan, based on eligibility, comprising of health and welfare plans for staff and eligible dependents, financial plans with opportunities to save towards retirement or other goals, work/life balance, and career development opportunities that may include:
- A comprehensive employee benefits package, including a Retirement and Savings Plan with generous company contributions, group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts
- A discretionary annual bonus program, or for field sales representatives, a sales-based incentive plan
- Stock-based long-term incentives
- Award-winning time-off plans
- Flexible work models where possible. Refer to the Work Location Type in the job posting to see if this applies.
- undefined
and make a lasting impact with the Amgen team.
careers.amgen.com
In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Application deadline
Amgen does not have an application deadline for this position; we will continue accepting applications until we receive a sufficient number or select a candidate for the position.
Sponsorship
Sponsorship for this role is not guaranteed.
As an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people around the world, Amgen fosters an inclusive environment of ethical, committed and highly accomplished people who respect each other and live the Amgen values to continue advancing science to serve patients. Together, we compete in the fight against serious disease.
Amgen is an Equal Opportunity employer. We make all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities, consistent with legal requirements. Please contact us to request accommodation.
Join Amgen’s Mission of Serving Patients
At Amgen, if you feel like you’re part of something bigger, it’s because you are. Our shared mission—to serve patients living with serious illnesses—drives all that we do.
Since 1980, we’ve helped pioneer the world of biotech in our fight against the world’s toughest diseases. Amgen is advancing a broad and deep pipeline and portfolio of medicines to treat heart disease, obesity and obesity-related conditions, rare diseases, inflammatory conditions and cancer. As a member of the Amgen team, you’ll help make a lasting impact on the lives of patients as we research, manufacture, and deliver innovative medicines to help people live longer, fuller happier lives.
Our award-winning culture is collaborative, innovative, and science based. If you have a passion for challenges and the opportunities that lay within them, you’ll thrive as part of the Amgen team. Join us and transform the lives of patients while transforming your career.
Scientific Associate Director, Oncology Research
What you will do
Let’s do this. Let’s change the world. In this vital role you will develop and lead a portfolio of antibody-based large-molecule therapeutics for solid tumors. In this highly visible role, you will work across Research and Development to implement and advance next-generation approaches for cancer therapeutics.
You will have direct experience leading oncology T-cell engager (TCE) and/or antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) programs from discovery through development candidate nomination, including the use of translational biology to inform clinical development. A deep and broad understanding of cancer cell biology—including human genetics, tumor cell signaling, mechanisms of response and resistance, and translational pharmacology—will be essential.
You will lead project teams and external collaborations, shape discovery strategy, and inspire and develop a creative, dedicated research team. The successful candidate will be an exceptional scientific leader who can translate strategy into execution, influence decisions across functions, and deliver results in a fast-paced and evolving matrixed environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Define and lead preclinical research strategies for TCE and ADC therapies, including identification of novel target opportunities, prioritization of discovery investments, and advancement of programs toward development candidate nomination.
- Build and execute a cell-surface target discovery, prioritization, and validation strategy for pancreatic cancer, with the goal of establishing an innovative portfolio of first-in-class TCE and ADC therapies.
- Serve as Project Team Lead for Oncology portfolio programs, setting clear objectives and decision criteria, integrating cross-functional input, monitoring progress against milestones, and adapting strategy as new data emerges.
- Lead integrated cross-functional research plans across tumor biology, target validation, translational research, protein engineering, pharmacology, safety, clinical development, and commercial strategy. Apply translational biology to define patient populations, biomarkers, mechanisms of response and resistance, and development strategies, while anticipating and resolving complex scientific and programmatic challenges.
- Lead and develop a team of lab-based scientists, creating an inclusive, high-performing environment that promotes rigorous science, efficient execution, informed risk-taking, and professional growth.
- Shape Oncology Research strategy by identifying emerging scientific and industry trends, proposing new investment opportunities, and integrating enabling technologies—including computational biology and AI/ML—into target discovery, biological validation, and portfolio decisions.
- Establish productive external scientific collaborations and evaluate external innovation through scientific diligence in support of business-development and partnering opportunities.
- Communicate scientific strategy, evidence, risks, and recommendations clearly to project teams, governance bodies, senior management, collaborators, and external scientific audiences; lead development of governance materials, technical reports, publications, presentations, and patent applications.
What we expect of you
We are all different, yet we all use our unique contributions to serve patients. The Scientific leader we seek is a researcher with these qualifications.
Basic Qualifications:
Doctorate degree PhD
OR
PharmD
OR
MD [and relevant post-doc where applicable] and 4 years of [Job Code’s Discipline and/or Sub-Discipline] experience
OR
Master’s degree and 7 years of [Job Code’s Discipline and/or Sub-Discipline] experience
OR
Bachelor’s degree and 9 years of [Job Code’s Discipline and/or Sub-Discipline] experience
Preferred Qualifications:
- PhD or equivalent doctoral training in cancer biology, immunology, molecular biology, pharmacology, genetics, translational medicine, or related discipline.
- Demonstrated experience leading at least one oncology TCE and/or ADC program from target discovery through development candidate nomination or an equivalent major discovery milestone.
- Deep knowledge of solid-tumor biology, with experience in pancreatic cancer or other treatment-resistant solid tumors strongly preferred.
- Broad expertise in human cancer genetics, oncogenic signaling, tumor dependencies, tumor–immune biology, mechanisms of response and resistance, and translational pharmacology, with experience building rigorous target-validation packages using genetic, cellular, biochemical, in vivo, and human evidence.
- Strong understanding of antibody-based therapeutic discovery, particularly TCEs and/or ADCs, with working knowledge of protein engineering, pharmacology, safety assessment, biomarker development, and clinical-development considerations.
- Demonstrated ability to independently define decision-enabling experiments, establish clear success and stop criteria, interpret complex datasets, and translate evidence into balanced program and portfolio recommendations.
- Proven success leading cross-functional teams in a matrixed drug-discovery environment and managing, mentoring, and developing scientists within inclusive, high-performing teams; able to lead through change while balancing scientific rigor, speed, and portfolio impact.
- Track record of external collaboration, scientific diligence, and influential scientific communication, supported by publications, patents, invited presentations, or recognition as a subject-matter expert.
What you can expect of us
As we work to develop treatments that take care of others, we also work to care for your professional and personal growth and well-being. From our competitive benefits to our collaborative culture, we’ll support your journey every step of the way.
The expected annual salary range for this role in the U.S. (excluding Puerto Rico) is posted. Actual salary will vary based on several factors including but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, and qualifications.
In addition to the base salary, Amgen offers a Total Rewards Plan, based on eligibility, comprising of health and welfare plans for staff and eligible dependents, financial plans with opportunities to save towards retirement or other goals, work/life balance, and career development opportunities that may include:
- A comprehensive employee benefits package, including a Retirement and Savings Plan with generous company contributions, group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts
- A discretionary annual bonus program, or for field sales representatives, a sales-based incentive plan
- Stock-based long-term incentives
- Award-winning time-off plans
- Flexible work models where possible. Refer to the Work Location Type in the job posting to see if this applies.
- undefined
and make a lasting impact with the Amgen team.
careers.amgen.com
In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Application deadline
Amgen does not have an application deadline for this position; we will continue accepting applications until we receive a sufficient number or select a candidate for the position.
Sponsorship
Sponsorship for this role is not guaranteed.
As an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people around the world, Amgen fosters an inclusive environment of ethical, committed and highly accomplished people who respect each other and live the Amgen values to continue advancing science to serve patients. Together, we compete in the fight against serious disease.
Amgen is an Equal Opportunity employer. We make all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities, consistent with legal requirements. Please contact us to request accommodation.
See All 63 Research Director Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Director JobsResearch Director Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Director Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
- Technology & Software
- Media & Entertainment
- Energy
- Fintech
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research director jobs across California.
- Doctoral degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent) in a relevant scientific or technical discipline
- Demonstrated leadership of multi-disciplinary research teams and large-scale study programs
- Strong record of peer-reviewed publication, grant acquisition, or industry R&D output
- Experience managing IRB submissions, regulatory compliance, or FDA research protocols
- Proficiency with California-relevant research infrastructure including UC system or state health data systems
- Ability to collaborate across California academic medical centers, biotech firms, or public agencies
Research Director Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research director in California?
The most common path to a research director role in California starts with a doctoral degree in a relevant field followed by several years of progressively senior research or faculty experience. California does not issue a state license specific to research directors, but roles in clinical research often require compliance with California Health and Safety Code requirements and familiarity with CDPH or UC system protocols. A strong publication record, grant leadership experience, and prior management of research staff are the credentials that drive competitive candidacy.
How much do research directors make in California?
Research directors in California earn a median of about $210,230 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $130,730 for the lowest 10% to over $330,050 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire research directors in California?
Employers hiring research directors in California right now include Amgen, Gilead Sciences, and Stanford University, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. California's density of biotechnology firms, academic medical centers, and technology companies makes it one of the deepest markets in the country for sustained research director demand.
Which California cities have the most research director jobs?
The cities with the most research director openings in California are San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The San Francisco Bay Area and San Diego lead because of their high concentrations of biotech headquarters, research universities, and life sciences campuses, while Los Angeles draws demand from its large academic medical centers, entertainment technology research divisions, and public health institutions.
Are there remote research director jobs in California?
Yes, and more than many senior research roles, because research directors often split their time between strategy, writing, and stakeholder work that can be done off-site. About 42% of research director openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with the remote-eligible share concentrated in policy research, data science research, and program oversight roles rather than lab-based or clinical positions.
How can I get hired as a research director in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic path for candidates without director-level experience is to enter as a research manager, principal investigator, or senior scientist at a California academic medical center or major biotech company such as those in the UC system, Kaiser Permanente, or South San Francisco corridor firms, then build toward director promotion internally. UC campuses and large California health systems frequently run postdoctoral leadership development and research management training tracks. A completed doctoral degree paired with demonstrated grant management or team supervision, even at modest scale, gives candidates a credible entry point.
Where can I find and apply to research director jobs in California?
You can find and apply to research director jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings. Find the roles that fit your experience and apply directly.
See All 63 Research Director Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Director Jobs