Head of Animal Research Department

At our Animal Health location in Boxmeer, we are dedicated to improving the health and welfare of animals worldwide. We are seeking a passionate and experienced leader to develop our Animal Research department to the next level.

Welcome to the team

Our Animal Research Department (45 FTE) is responsible for the execution of animal studies at the Boxmeer site for Research & Development (R&D) and Quality Control (QC) according the 3R principles (Replace, Reduce, Refine). Our innovative research and development initiatives aim to provide effective solutions that enhance animal well-being and support the veterinary community. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced people manager to join our organization as the Head of the Animal Research Department (ARD).

Purpose of the role

Based in Boxmeer, The Netherlands, ARD is responsible for conducting experiments to develop novel vaccines and biotherapeutics plus allow the release of licensed vaccines according to Regulatory guidelines. In this role you will oversee the strategic direction and operational management of the animal research department, ensuring compliance with GxP, ethical standards and regulations. The role is also pivotal in promoting animal welfare, including strong adherence to the 3Rs initiative, while advancing research initiatives that contribute to scientific knowledge and innovation. Additionally, the department facilitates pathology studies for various species. The primary responsibilities of this role include managing animal facilities and equipment, overseeing career development opportunities for the people in the department, alignment with Environmental Health and Safety for best practices for safely handling animals and ensuring the overall well-being and welfare of animals.

Primary Responsibilities

Lead and manage the animal research department, ensuring alignment with organizational goals of product development and Quality control product release via compliance with regulatory requirements
Overall responsible for managing the Veterinarians and Department managers
Implement, improve and harmonize policies and procedures that promote animal welfare and ethical research practices via the Animal Welfare Body
Be the license holder of the company for the use of animal for scientific purposes
Foster a culture of continuous learning and collaboration by prioritizing people development, promoting teamwork, and enhancing diversity and inclusion within the organization
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and execute research projects that adhere to best practices in animal care and use
Ensure training and guidance of staff on animal care, welfare standards, and ethical research practices
Serve as the primary liaison with regulatory agencies and institutional review boards regarding animal research protocols
Stay updated on advancements in animal welfare science and integrate relevant findings into departmental practices
Align and harmonize animal health and welfare practices within our organization and other internal colleagues
Responsible for ensuring that the animal facilities are fully equipped to support the future pipeline while proactively identifying and implementing enhancements to meet evolving research needs.

Your profile

Preferably MSC degree in veterinary medicine or MSC in animal science, biology, or a related field with at least 10 years of experience in the animal health industry in a managerial role
In-depth knowledge of animal welfare regulations including the Animal Welfare Act, EMA regulatory guidelines and industry best practices
Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage, develop and motivate a diverse team
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments
Strong problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills
Fluent in English and Dutch or the willingness to learn Dutch
Preferably experience in various species

What We Offer

We welcome you to a truly global, dynamic, and challenging environment with great opportunities for personal development. Our benefits are very competitive, and the summary below will give you an idea of what you can expect.

Competitive salary and a 3% year-end allowance.
25 days of leave +collective Holidays.
Incentive plan.
Attractive health care insurance package.
Annual bonuses based on performance.
Company fitness and travel allowances.
Extensive training and development opportunities.

If you have questions regarding this opportunity?

Please send your question including vacancy title and number to: ***

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully

Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.

Employee Status

Regular

Relocation:

VISA Sponsorship

Travel Requirements:

Flexible Work Arrangements

Not Applicable

Shift

Valid Driving License:

Hazardous Material(s)

Job Posting End Date:

06/30/2025

A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

Requisition ID: R338879
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