Head of Research and Development - Pharma Solutions
About the role
The Head of Pharma Solutions R&D role is pivotal for shaping the future of innovation in lipid-based drug delivery systems, vaccine adjuvants, and formulation science. This role requires a leader who can connect deep scientific expertise with commercial strategy, fostering an environment of empowerment, accountability, and technical excellence.
Responsibilities
Develop and execute the Pharma Solutions R&D strategy aligned with business growth objectives.
Lead and develop a high-performing global R&D organization through coaching, talent development, and servant leadership.
Establish innovation portfolio governance, decision-gate processes, prioritization methodologies, and performance metrics.
Drive the development of next-generation lipid chemistries, drug delivery technologies, and vaccine adjuvant platforms.
Ensure scientific excellence by linking lipid structure, mechanism of action, and formulation science to product performance and customer outcomes.
Sponsor application-data generation supporting efficacy, stability, manufacturability, regulatory positioning, and product differentiation.
Build strategic partnerships across academia, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical organizations, and external technical experts.
Champion a culture of innovation, collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement across the organization.
Qualifications
PhD or other advanced postgraduate degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Drug Delivery, or a related scientific discipline.
Significant experience leading R&D organizations within pharmaceutical, biotechnology, drug delivery, vaccines, or related life sciences sectors.
Demonstrated expertise in lipid-based drug delivery systems.
Strong knowledge of vaccine adjuvant technologies and formulation sciences.
Track record of translating scientific innovation into commercial outcomes and business growth.
Experience managing innovation portfolios, strategic investments, and cross-functional development programs.
Proven leadership of multidisciplinary, geographically dispersed teams.
Skills
Inspirational and empowering leader with a servant leadership mindset.
Comfortable navigating ambiguity, complexity, and evolving market opportunities.
Strong strategic thinking and decision-making capabilities.
Passion for talent development, succession planning, and culture building.
Results-oriented with a strong sense of accountability and execution excellence.
External mindset with the ability to build influential scientific and industry networks.
Benefits
Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, available immediately.
Generous PTO
401K Match
Wellness Reimbursement
Parental Leave
Career Development
Company paid and voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
Short and long term disability
Paid Holidays
Pay
Annual Base Salary Range: $175,000 to $245,000.
Schedule
This on-site position is based at our corporate headquarters in Princeton, NJ.