Business Development, Life Sciences

Duration

This is a one-year, fixed-duration position with the possibility of extension.

About the Role

The Indiana Biosciences Research Institute (IBRI) is seeking a highly experienced, dynamic Senior Director, Business Development for a one-year, fixed-duration appointment focused on accelerating Indiana's life sciences economy through business attraction and capital formation. This role is funded through a strategic initiative in partnership with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and is designed as a high-impact, pilot effort to rapidly expand access to venture capital and recruit high-potential companies to Indiana. Operating within IBRI but serving a broader network of statewide stakeholders, this individual will act as a connector between Indiana's scientific innovation and national investment and growth opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Business Attraction & Ecosystem Growth (Time-Bound Impact Focus)
  • Identify, target, and recruit high-growth life sciences and biotechnology companies to locate or expand in Indiana
  • Promote Indiana's assets, including research institutions, talent, and infrastructure to prospective companies
  • Collaborate with economic development and partner organizations to align outreach and recruitment efforts
  • Deliver measurable pipeline activity within the 12-month engagement period
• Capital Formation & Investor Engagement
  • Leverage an established network of venture capital and industry investors, particularly in leading biotech markets
  • Rapidly connect Indiana-based companies with Seed and Series A funding opportunities
  • Advocate for Indiana startups and secure high-value investor introductions and meetings
  • Position Indiana companies to align with investor expectations and deal structures
• Strategic Partnerships & Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Work across IBRI and partner organizations to maximize resources and impact
  • Serve as a shared business development resource supporting multiple stakeholders statewide
  • Strengthen relationships that increase Indiana's national visibility in life sciences
• Deal Advancement & Execution
  • Build and manage a robust pipeline of investment and company recruitment opportunities
  • Support the advancement and closing of financing transactions
  • Deliver tangible outcomes within the defined one-year timeframe

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in life sciences, business, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in business development, corporate development, or investment in life sciences/biotech
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered
• Demonstrated success closing Seed and/or Series A financings
• Deep network with venture capital firms, particularly biotech-focused investors
• Strong ability to translate scientific innovations into compelling investment opportunities
• Experience with business attraction, economic development, or multi-stakeholder collaboration preferred
• Advanced degree in life sciences (PhD or MS preferred) and/or MBA strongly preferred
• Ability to travel as needed for success in role

Compensation

Competitive salary, including bonus potential, and comprehensive benefits offered commensurate with experience.