Senior Vice President, Research & Development Greater Amsterdam, Netherlands Area

The Company is seeking a Senior Vice President of Research & Development to lead programmes from discovery and candidate selection through preclinical development and IND-enabling activities. The role will connect research with development by establishing translational strategies, guiding programme design, identifying scientific and execution risks, and ensuring experiments support clear decisions. Responsibilities include leading project science teams, driving cross-functional plans and milestones, contributing to portfolio prioritisation, and overseeing external research partners and CROs. The successful candidate will also serve as a strategic partner to the CSO, translating complex science into recommendations and representing the organisation with external stakeholders. Candidates should hold a PhD, MD/PhD, or equivalent advanced scientific qualification in immunology or a related discipline, and bring approximately 15 or more years of relevant R&D experience in biotech or biopharma. Deep immunology expertise and a track record advancing therapeutic programmes through candidate selection and IND-enabling development are required. Strong capabilities in translational science, including human biology, biomarkers, pharmacology, PK/PD, and clinically relevant models, are essential, along with working knowledge of nonclinical safety, toxicology, bioanalytics, and regulatory requirements. The role also calls for experience managing CROs, sound programme and portfolio judgement, and the ability to lead and develop scientific teams and communicate effectively with both scientific and executive audiences.

Hiring Company

Forbion