Chief Research and Development Officer – Next-Gen Insulin Delivery | Cambridge, MA

Are you a visionary leader passionate about transforming the future of insulin delivery? We are seeking a Chief Research & Development Officer to spearhead breakthrough advancements in next-generation insulin technologies. Based in Cambridge, MA, this pivotal role offers a unique opportunity to drive cutting-edge innovation, shape strategic direction, and lead a high-impact team dedicated to improving lives worldwide.

Lead the Future of Insulin Delivery Technology

Join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of diabetes care innovation. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in medical device R&D, strong leadership skills, and a track record of successfully bringing complex healthcare products from concept to commercialization. If you thrive in a collaborative, fast-evolving environment and are driven to make a meaningful difference, this role is designed for you.

Key Responsibilities of the Chief Research and Development Officer – Next-Gen Insulin Delivery

Strategic Innovation Leadership:
Drive the research and development vision for next-generation insulin delivery systems. Develop and execute cutting-edge R&D strategies aligned with emerging scientific advancements and market needs. Lead the innovation pipeline from concept through clinical validation and product commercialization.

Technology Development & Product Design:
Oversee the design, prototyping, testing, and refinement of advanced insulin delivery technologies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, regulatory, and clinical affairs to ensure robust, user-friendly, and scalable product solutions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Partner closely with clinical, regulatory, manufacturing, and commercial teams to ensure alignment across development stages. Foster a collaborative environment that accelerates product development while maintaining rigorous quality standards.

Team Leadership & Talent Development:
Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing R&D team. Cultivate a culture of scientific excellence, creativity, and accountability. Attract and retain top talent while promoting professional growth and innovation mindset.

Research & Clinical Partnerships:
Establish and nurture relationships with academic institutions, clinical research organizations, and industry partners. Leverage external collaborations to enhance scientific knowledge, clinical validation, and technology adoption.

Regulatory & Compliance Oversight:
Ensure all R&D activities comply with applicable medical device regulations and industry standards. Work proactively with regulatory affairs to prepare documentation and support submissions for FDA and other global health authorities.

Budget & Resource Management:
Manage the R&D budget effectively to maximize resource utilization. Prioritize projects and investments to deliver high-impact results within timelines and financial targets.

Intellectual Property & Competitive Analysis:
Protect innovations through patent strategy and intellectual property management. Monitor competitive landscape and emerging technologies to maintain the company’s position as a leader in insulin delivery innovation.

Data-Driven Decision Making:
Utilize scientific data, clinical insights, and market feedback to guide R&D priorities. Implement metrics and performance indicators to track progress and optimize product development cycles.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Chief Research and Development Officer for Next-Gen Insulin Delivery, the client seeks a visionary and accomplished leader with a strong scientific and technical background in medical device innovation. You should be a strategic thinker with proven success driving R&D programs that translate cutting-edge science into commercially viable products improving patient outcomes.

Proven Leadership in Medical Device R&D

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience leading research and development teams in the healthcare or medtech sector, preferably with expertise in diabetes care or drug delivery systems. Demonstrated success in managing complex projects from concept through regulatory approval and commercialization is highly valued.

Innovative Mindset with a Patient-Centric Approach

You must be passionate about developing breakthrough technologies that enhance the lives of people with diabetes. The client values leaders who combine technical excellence with a deep understanding of patient needs, clinical realities, and user experience to drive impactful innovation.

Strategic Vision and Execution Excellence

This role requires a forward-looking leader capable of defining and executing a clear R&D strategy aligned with business goals. You should excel at prioritizing projects, optimizing resources, and navigating regulatory pathways to accelerate time-to-market while ensuring safety and efficacy.

Strong Cross-Functional Collaboration and Communication Skills

Success depends on your ability to work closely with clinical, regulatory, manufacturing, and commercial teams as well as external partners. The client seeks a leader who fosters collaboration, builds trust, and effectively communicates complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders.

Technical Expertise and Regulatory Acumen

A deep understanding of medical device development, quality systems, and global regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, EMA) is essential. The ideal candidate will ensure compliance and risk management while advancing innovative product pipelines.

Data-Driven and Results-Oriented

You should be comfortable leveraging scientific data, market insights, and performance metrics to guide decision-making and optimize R&D outcomes. The client values a pragmatic leader who balances innovation with rigorous analysis to deliver measurable impact.

Talent Development and Team Building

The client is looking for someone who can attract, develop, and retain top R&D talent. You should foster a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous learning to build a high-performing, agile team prepared to meet evolving challenges.

FAQs About the Role – Chief R&D Officer – Next-Gen Insulin Delivery

1. What are the key responsibilities of the Chief R&D Officer in this role?
As the Chief R&D Officer, you will lead the research and development efforts to pioneer next-generation insulin delivery technologies. Your responsibilities include setting the R&D vision and strategy, overseeing product design and clinical validation, managing cross-functional collaboration, ensuring regulatory compliance, and building a high-performing innovation team that accelerates product development from concept to market.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in medical device research and development, preferably in diabetes care or drug delivery systems. Proven leadership of R&D teams and successful track record in advancing products through regulatory approval and commercialization are essential. Advanced degrees in biomedical engineering, life sciences, or related fields are highly desirable.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
We seek a visionary and strategic leader with excellent decision-making skills and a passion for innovation. Strong communication and collaboration abilities are critical for working effectively across scientific, clinical, regulatory, and commercial teams. You should be adaptable, results-driven, and capable of inspiring and mentoring a diverse R&D team.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?
Key challenges include navigating complex regulatory pathways, managing multidisciplinary teams, balancing innovation with patient safety, and accelerating time-to-market in a highly competitive and evolving healthcare landscape. You will also need to stay ahead of technological advancements and align R&D efforts with broader business goals.

5. What is the expected impact of the Chief R&D Officer on the company’s growth?
Your leadership will be pivotal in driving breakthrough insulin delivery innovations that improve patient outcomes and position the company as a leader in diabetes care. By successfully bringing novel products to market, you will directly influence the company’s growth, market share, and reputation.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The company promotes a collaborative, inclusive, and innovation-driven culture in the heart of Cambridge’s vibrant biotech ecosystem. You will work alongside passionate experts dedicated to transforming diabetes care, in an environment that values creativity, accountability, and continuous learning.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Chief Research & Development Officer leading next-generation insulin delivery innovation in Cambridge, MA, you can expect a highly competitive compensation package designed to attract exceptional scientific and executive talent. The remuneration for this critical leadership role typically includes:

1. Base Salary
The base salary for a Chief R&D Officer in the medical device and biotech sectors varies depending on company size, funding stage, and market position. Typically, the annual base salary ranges from $250,000 to $450,000, with potential for higher compensation in larger or publicly traded organizations.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses
In addition to a base salary, compensation packages often include annual performance-based bonuses linked to R&D milestones, product development timelines, clinical approvals, and overall company growth. Bonuses can range from 20% to 60% of the base salary depending on individual and company achievements.

3. Equity & Stock Options
Equity incentives such as stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or other long-term incentive plans are common in biotech and medtech companies. These align your rewards with the company’s long-term success and can represent a substantial portion of total compensation, especially in high-growth startups.

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)
Some organizations provide LTIPs or profit-sharing arrangements that reward sustained innovation and leadership over multiple years, ensuring focus on long-term value creation and product pipeline success.

5. Executive Benefits & Perks
You can expect a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings plans with company contributions
Executive wellness programs
Professional development opportunities
Flexible work arrangements and relocation assistance if applicable

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance
Highly qualified candidates may be offered signing bonuses and relocation support to facilitate a smooth transition to Cambridge, MA. These incentives vary based on the company and candidate profile.

Total Compensation Potential

When combining base salary, bonuses, equity, and additional incentives, total annual compensation for a Chief R&D Officer in this specialized field can range from $400,000 to over $750,000. In leading biotech firms or high-value startups, the package may be even more lucrative, reflecting the strategic importance of the role.

How to Apply

If you are an innovative and visionary leader with a proven track record in medical device research and development, especially within diabetes care or drug delivery systems, we encourage you to apply for the Chief R&D Officer – Next-Gen Insulin Delivery role based in Cambridge, MA. This is a unique opportunity to lead breakthrough innovation, drive product development, and shape the future of insulin delivery technology.

To apply, please submit your resume along with a detailed cover letter outlining your experience in leading complex R&D programs, advancing medical device products from concept to commercialization, managing cross-functional teams, and navigating regulatory pathways. Highlight your successes in driving innovation, improving patient outcomes, and building high-performing scientific teams.

This role offers a high-impact career opportunity where you will play a pivotal role in transforming diabetes care and accelerating market leadership. Apply today to take the next step in your executive career as Chief R&D Officer – Next-Gen Insulin Delivery in Cambridge, MA!

For more information or to explore similar leadership roles in medical technology, please visit our Diabetes and Insulin Delivery Device Executive Search Page.

Job Category: Next-Gen Insulin Delivery

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Cambridge

Chief Research and Development Officer – Next-Gen Insulin Delivery | Cambridge, MA