Senior Medical Science Liaison, Rare Disease - West

Acadia is committed to turning scientific promise into meaningful innovation that makes the difference for underserved neurological and rare disease communities around the world. Our commercial portfolio includes the first and only FDA-approved treatments for Parkinson’s disease psychosis and Rett syndrome. We are developing the next wave of therapeutic advancements with a robust and diverse pipeline that includes mid- to late-stage programs in Alzheimer’s disease psychosis and Lewy body dementia psychosis, along with earlier-stage programs that address other underserved patient needs.

About the role

This field-based role serves as a key scientific resource within Medical Affairs, building trusted relationships with healthcare professionals, key opinion leaders (KOLs), researchers, and advocacy organizations. The Senior Medical Science Liaison (MSL) facilitates scientific exchange, advances medical education, and provides strategic insights that support Acadia's rare disease portfolio. The role covers the West region, including Northern California, Oregon, and Washington, with travel up to 75%. Candidates may reside anywhere within the assigned territory.

Responsibilities

• Identifies and develops relationships with national and regional medical and scientific thought leaders, patient advocacy groups, and centers of excellence consistent with Acadia’s Medical Affairs strategy.
• Engages thought leaders to discuss research, medical information, and participate in scientific exchange and education about current and emerging therapies.
• Provides research trial site support and cultivates investigator-initiated research proposals.
• Develops and maintains scientific, clinical, and therapeutic expertise for Acadia’s portfolio.
• Collaborates cross-functionally with regional field leadership partners, following all compliance guidelines.
• Provides strategic field insights and identifies disease concepts for product differentiation.
• Offers scientific, clinical, and educational support for internal and external clients.
• Represents the company at continuing educational events, medical meetings, and conventions.
• Supports Commercial operations by participating in Speaker and Sales Representative Training.
• Partners with internal departments to ensure accurate delivery of medical and scientific information.

Requirements

• Advanced degree required (MD, PharmD, or PhD) in a scientific discipline or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience.
• Experience supporting rare diseases, epilepsy, neurology, or psychiatry therapeutic areas strongly preferred.
• Previous Medical Science Liaison experience preferred.
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical industry regulations, compliance requirements, and clinical research practices.
• Ability to travel up to 75%, including overnight travel, with residence located within the assigned territory.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Physical Requirements

This role involves regular standing, walking, sitting, and use of hands for handling or operating equipment. The employee may need to reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch. Must maintain visual, verbal, and auditory communication in office and remote environments. Occasionally lifts and/or moves up to 20 pounds. Requires ability to travel independently overnight and work after hours as needed.

Pay

Salary Range: $181,300—$226,600 USD. This position is also eligible for discretionary bonus and equity awards based on individual and organizational performance.

Benefits

• Competitive base, bonus, new hire, and ongoing equity packages.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Employer-paid life, disability, business travel, and EAP coverage.
• 401(k) Plan with a fully vested company match 1:1 up to 5%.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan with a 2-year purchase price lock-in.
• 15+ vacation days.
• 13–15 paid holidays, including office closure between December 24th and January 1st.
• 10 days of paid sick time.
• Paid parental leave benefit.
• Tuition assistance.