Director, Medical Science Liaison

Job overview:

The Director of Medical Science Liaison (Western US) at Compass Pathways will lead and develop a high-performing field medical team focused on impactful scientific engagement within the neuroscience and mental health community. This role is responsible for translating Compass’s medical strategy into effective field activities, overseeing MSL operations across a defined region, and ensuring consistent, high-quality scientific exchange with external stakeholders.

The Director will drive execution of the national medical affairs plan, coach and mentor MSLs to enhance scientific credibility and performance, and partner closely with cross-functional teams to ensure that field insights help inform medical strategy, clinical development, and educational initiatives. At this level, the role also supports the growth of Compass’s treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) franchises by reinforcing scientific leadership, shaping medical engagement plans, and advancing relationships with key external experts and thought leaders.

Location: Remote on the West Coast, USA. 

Reports to: Senior Director, Medical Science Liaison.

Roles and responsibilities:
(include but not limited to)

• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing MSL team within a region, setting clear expectations for scientific excellence, compliance, and professional growth
• Foster a culture of scientific rigor, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within Field Medical
• Translate medical strategy into effective field execution, ensuring consistent, high-quality scientific engagement across territories
• Oversee territory planning, stakeholder prioritization, and deployment of field medical resources
• Ensure the timely collection, synthesis, and communication of actionable medical insights from the field to inform clinical development, medical strategy, and education planning
• Maintain awareness of emerging science, treatment landscape developments, and competitive activity relevant to TRD and PTSD
• Support medical education initiatives, advisory boards, and scientific congress engagement at the regional or national level
• Contribute to the evolution of Medical Affairs processes, training, tools, and metrics to support a growing field medical organization
• Liaise cross-functionally with Clinical Development, Market Access, Government Affairs, and other internal teams to align field medical activities with organizational priorities

Candidate Profile:

• Advanced scientific training with associated credentials (e.g., PhD, PharmD, PMHNP, MD)
• At least 3 years of Medical Science Liaison experience
• Proven field medical leader with demonstrated ability to manage projects and cross-functional relationships
• Preference for candidates with background/experience in neuroscience, psychiatry or psychology
• Experience managing and supporting direct reports required
• Experience in pre-commercial or early-launch environments preferred
• Ability to travel up to 50-75%, including overnight stays and weekends, as needed
• A thoughtful leader
• Highly organized and accountable
• Excellent verbal and written communication, listening skills, and emotional intelligence
• Proven experience of self-motivation, accountability, integrity & teamwork
• Passion for improving and transforming mental health – full alignment with Compass values