Head of Medical Scientific Affairs / Head of Medical Scientific Affairs

About the AO

The AO is a medically guided, not-for-profit organization and a global network of surgeons. We are the world's leading organization in education, innovation, and research, specializing in the surgical treatment of trauma and musculoskeletal disorders. Our team is comprised of professionals from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, united by a passion for excellence and a commitment to improving patient care. Together, we embody the spirit of the AO.

For more information, visit: AO Foundation

AO Innovation Translation Center

The AO Innovation Translation Center (AO ITC) streamlines and drives innovation projects. Its activities encompass the development of clinical solutions in collaboration with our industry partners, innovation gathering, proof-of-concept studies, strategic investments in intellectual property, technology, or companies, and the creation of evidence through clinical research.

Position Overview

The Head of Medical Scientific Affairs provides strategic and scientific leadership for AO's clinical evidence generation ecosystem, ensuring that investments in clinical research lead to meaningful enhancements in patient care. This role serves as a trusted scientific advisor, representing AO ITC in both internal and external scientific initiatives, partnerships, and expert forums.

The Head of Medical Scientific Affairs is accountable for developing a high-impact portfolio of clinical studies across various disciplines, including Trauma, CMF, Spine, TC, Veterinary, and related orthopedic fields. This role involves optimizing resource allocation, maintaining scientific excellence, and facilitating the effective translation of evidence into clinical practice.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead the Medical Scientific Affairs team, providing strategic and operational guidance while fostering a high-performance culture.
• Define team objectives and performance expectations aligned with the organization's strategy.
• Recruit, mentor, and evaluate team members, ensuring the right competencies are in place.
• Collaborate closely with Clinical Operations for resource planning across studies and programs.
• Build effective collaborations with various stakeholders to advance clinical research activities.
• Drive continuous improvement in Medical Scientific Affairs processes and establish a culture of scientific integrity and compliance.
• Lead the Clinical Science Advisory Commission (CSAC) and the AO ITC Clinical Research Fellowship Program.
• Support the AO PEER program.

Clinical Study Design & Scientific Support

• Develop clinical study protocols addressing critical knowledge gaps in collaboration with surgeons and partners.
• Review and assess adverse events and safety-related findings during study execution.
• Provide expert advice on medical and scientific questions and support scientific publication preparation.
• Collaborate with Clinical Operations on study planning and monitoring.
• Drive excellence in scientific publication strategies and congress presentations.

Clinical Research Portfolio Strategy

• Lead discussions on future evidence needs and maintain a strategic research portfolio aligned with AO's mission.
• Establish portfolio prioritization frameworks balancing funding, knowledge gaps, and clinical significance.
• Monitor performance and adapt research priorities based on emerging evidence and clinical demands.
• Provide leadership throughout the research lifecycle, ensuring compliance and ethical conduct.
• Collaborate with Clinical Operations on acquiring grants and strengthening industry partnerships.
• Support Knowledge Translation activities to integrate clinical evidence into education and practice.
• Lead the implementation of health economic and outcomes research initiatives.

Main Requirements

Professional & Technical Skills

• Advanced expertise in clinical research methodology.
• Strong understanding of orthopedic clinical practice.
• Experience in clinical study design and statistical principles.
• Proficiency in executing industry-sponsored clinical studies.
• Excellent writing and presentation skills for scientific publications and grants.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and Good Clinical Practice (GCP).

Education & Qualifications

• Medical Degree (MD) required.
• PhD, MSc, or equivalent highly desirable.
• Formal training in clinical epidemiology, research methodology, or related fields is advantageous.

Professional Experience

• Minimum of 10 years in clinical research within orthopedics, trauma, or related fields.
• Experience in developing and managing research portfolios and strategies.
• Strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and grant acquisitions.
• Ability to lead interdisciplinary and cross-functional teams effectively.

What We Offer

• An engaging and varied role within an innovative organization.
• The opportunity to join a dedicated international team.
• Modern infrastructure and a flexible working environment.
• A generous benefits package, including extra vacation days and pension contributions.
• Access to internal training opportunities and support for continued education.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.