2027 R&D Leadership Development Program — New Graduate PhD

Position Overview

We are seeking highly motivated new graduate PhD scientists to join our 2027 R&D Leadership Development Program. This early-career opportunity is designed for recent doctoral graduates who are interested in building broad scientific, technical, and leadership capabilities within cell and gene therapy. Participants will contribute to the advancement of our in vivo CAR-T platform and pipeline while gaining exposure to cross-functional R&D teams, experimental strategy, translational research, and drug development in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Major Responsibilities

• Support research activities that contribute to the development of Legend Biotech’s in vivo CAR-T platform and broader cell and gene therapy pipeline.
• Partner with scientists and cross-functional teams to plan, execute, and communicate project milestones, timelines, and key scientific updates.
• Contribute to experimental design, assay development, data generation, and technical troubleshooting under the guidance of senior scientists and program leaders.
• Apply foundational expertise in immunology, virology, molecular biology, or related disciplines to support research questions and platform innovation.
• Assist with development and optimization of assays, which may include lentiviral vector production and titration, multi-parameter flow cytometry, Incucyte, ELISA, cytotoxicity assays, and PCR-based analyses.
• Analyze, interpret, and document experimental results in a timely and organized manner while maintaining accurate scientific records and data integrity.
• Present findings, progress updates, and recommendations to internal stakeholders, building communication and leadership skills throughout the program.
  
  Decision Making

This role will make data-informed recommendations within assigned projects, escalate key findings or risks to scientists and program leaders, and contribute to project discussions with appropriate scientific rationale. Decision-making will be guided by program expectations, experimental results, and input from cross-functional stakeholders.

Position Requirements

Education:

Ph.D. in biology, immunology, virology, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, cell and gene therapy, or a related scientific discipline. Candidates should have completed their Ph.D. by the 2027 program start date or be on track to complete prior to starting.

Experience:

• 0–2 years of relevant research experience following; prior hands-on doctoral or postdoctoral research experience in immunology, oncology, virology, cell therapy, gene therapy, or related fields preferred.
• Foundational knowledge of cellular immunology, viral vector technologies, molecular biology, or functional assay development.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, analyze scientific data, and communicate findings through publications, presentations, posters, dissertations, or equivalent academic achievements.
• Strong scientific curiosity, problem-solving skills, and ability to learn new technologies, platforms, and therapeutic areas quickly.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present scientific concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.

Personal Attributes

• Passion for advancing next-generation cell and gene therapies and improving outcomes for patients.
• Growth mindset with enthusiasm for learning the business of R&D and developing as a future scientific leader.
• Strong sense of ownership, accountability, attention to detail, and commitment to high-quality science.
• Collaborative, team-oriented approach with openness to feedback, coaching, and cross-functional partnership.
• Ability to adapt, prioritize, and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced research environment.

Language(s):

English