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🧬 Head of Research & Development – Biotech

Job description

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We are Salasungo.
SALASUNGO – the elite, niche executive search partner dedicated exclusively to the Life Sciences sector.
We don’t work broadly. We work precisely – placing high-caliber professionals in mission-critical roles across Europe’s most ambitious biotech, pharma, and medtech companies.
Our clients don’t come to us for quantity. They come for impact.

And this is one of those rare mandates.

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🚀 The Opportunity

A cutting-edge European biotech firm is setting new benchmarks in cell & gene therapy and immuno-oncology – and they are scaling rapidly from their strategic R&D hub at Grand Canal Quay, Dublin.

We are looking for a Head of Research & Development who doesn’t just lead teams – but defines directions. Someone who will play a decisive role in transforming advanced science into globally scalable therapeutic solutions.

This isn’t just another leadership position.
It’s a seat at the core of what could become one of Europe’s most influential biotech stories.

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💡 What You’ll Lead

  • Define and implement R&D strategy in alignment with clinical and commercial objectives

  • Lead and expand a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, project leads, and lab heads (currently ~40 FTEs)

  • Oversee preclinical and early-stage development with direct collaboration across regulatory, clinical, and manufacturing functions

  • Establish strategic partnerships with academic institutions and CROs across Europe and the U.S.

  • Represent the company at scientific boards, investor meetings, and advisory councils

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🔬 What You Bring

  • PhD (or MD/PhD) in Molecular Biology, Immunology, Cell Biology, or related field

  • 5+ years of experience in biotech/pharma R&D with proven leadership in cross-functional scientific teams

  • Deep expertise in cell & gene therapy, oncology, or rare diseases

  • Experience with IND/IMPD-enabling studies and regulatory readiness

  • Strategic mindset with hands-on leadership capability

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🌊 Why Dublin – Why Grand Canal Quay?

Think Zurich meets Boston, but with Irish soul.
Grand Canal Quay is Europe’s Silicon Docks – where biotech, AI, and pharma meet innovation and quality of life.
Water views, global talent, and a thriving ecosystem of scale-ups, investors, and big thinkers.

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💼 The Offer

  • Executive package with equity participation

  • Direct access to the CEO and Board

  • Visionary culture with long-term impact potential

  • HQ workplace at the water’s edge in Dublin’s innovation district