VP of Translational Research – Prototype-to-Product Pipeline | San Diego, CA

Are you a scientific innovator with a passion for turning research breakthroughs into real-world solutions? We are seeking a Vice President of Translational Research to lead the prototype-to-product development pipeline at a cutting-edge life sciences company in San Diego, CA. This is a unique opportunity to bridge discovery science and commercial application—driving novel therapeutics and diagnostics from the lab bench to patient impact. If you excel at scientific leadership and cross-functional collaboration, this role is your next career milestone.

Drive Scientific Innovation from Bench to Bedside in San Diego

A leading biotechnology company in San Diego, CA is looking for a Vice President of Translational Research to accelerate its R&D efforts and bring transformative products to market. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in translational medicine, product development, and cross-functional team leadership. If you are experienced in navigating the complexities of preclinical and early-stage clinical development—and passionate about making science actionable—this is your chance to lead innovation at the forefront of healthcare advancement.

Key Responsibilities of the VP of Translational Research – Prototype-to-Product Pipeline

Strategic R&D Leadership:
Develop and execute a translational research strategy that bridges early-stage scientific discovery with product development. Align research initiatives with corporate goals to ensure the efficient progression of prototypes into commercially viable healthcare solutions.

Prototype-to-Product Development:
Oversee the end-to-end pipeline from proof-of-concept through preclinical and early clinical development. Guide the design and execution of translational studies, biomarker discovery, and product validation processes to accelerate time-to-market.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Lead collaborative efforts across R&D, clinical, regulatory, and commercial teams to ensure a seamless transition of innovations from lab to market. Foster strong communication and integration among internal stakeholders and external partners.

Scientific and Technical Oversight:
Provide hands-on leadership in evaluating emerging technologies, therapeutic modalities, and diagnostic tools. Drive scientific rigor, data integrity, and innovation across translational programs to maintain the company’s competitive edge.

Regulatory & Clinical Interface:
Collaborate closely with regulatory affairs to ensure compliance and readiness for IND-enabling studies. Support clinical development teams in trial design, biomarker selection, and translational endpoints.

Innovation & Portfolio Management:
Continuously assess the research portfolio to identify high-impact programs and prioritize resources accordingly. Make data-driven decisions to manage risk, optimize timelines, and maximize scientific and commercial value.

Talent Development & Team Leadership:
Build and mentor a high-performing translational research team. Foster a culture of curiosity, accountability, and excellence while supporting professional development and scientific growth.

External Partnerships & Thought Leadership:
Represent the company in scientific forums, partnerships, and industry collaborations. Cultivate relationships with academic institutions, CROs, and strategic partners to enhance R&D capabilities and visibility.

Operational Efficiency & Resource Allocation:
Ensure optimal use of scientific, technical, and financial resources. Implement best practices in lab operations, project management, and data reporting to improve productivity and scalability.

Risk Management & Compliance:
Identify potential scientific, operational, and regulatory risks. Implement mitigation strategies and ensure adherence to ethical research practices, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Vice President of Translational Research – Prototype-to-Product Pipeline, the client is seeking a forward-thinking scientific leader with a deep understanding of translational medicine and a track record of successfully advancing innovative healthcare solutions from early discovery through development. You must be an accomplished R&D strategist who thrives in multidisciplinary environments and can balance scientific rigor with product-driven execution.

Proven Leadership in Translational Research & Product Development

The client is looking for a seasoned scientific executive with extensive experience guiding translational research programs in biotechnology or pharmaceutical settings. You should have a strong history of turning early-stage concepts into clinically viable assets, managing preclinical development, and supporting IND-enabling studies. Experience working across multiple therapeutic areas, particularly in high-growth or startup environments, is highly valued.

Visionary Strategist with a Bench-to-Bedside Mindset

You must demonstrate the ability to create and drive a scientific vision that aligns discovery research with commercial goals. The ideal candidate will be adept at identifying high-potential pipeline assets, accelerating product timelines, and balancing innovation with pragmatic execution. The client seeks someone who can navigate the complexity of product translation while keeping patients at the center of innovation.

Deep Scientific and Technical Expertise

A strong foundation in biology, pharmacology, immunology, or a related life science field is essential. The client values a leader with a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent, and hands-on experience in preclinical modeling, biomarker strategy, and clinical trial collaboration. Familiarity with regulatory expectations and translational endpoints is a significant asset.

Cross-Functional and Collaborative Leader

The client is seeking a collaborative executive who can unite cross-disciplinary teams—including R&D, clinical, regulatory, and commercial functions—to ensure seamless transition of projects through the development pipeline. Your ability to build consensus, communicate scientific insights effectively, and inspire diverse teams is key to success in this role.

Data-Driven Decision-Maker

Scientific intuition must be paired with a data-first mindset. The ideal candidate will bring strong analytical skills, the ability to interpret complex datasets, and experience making strategic decisions grounded in evidence. Comfort with program risk assessment, milestone tracking, and resource prioritization is a must.

Talent Builder and Scientific Mentor

You should be passionate about building and nurturing high-performing teams of scientists, clinicians, and technical experts. The client is looking for someone who leads by example, fosters continuous learning, and cultivates a culture of scientific excellence, accountability, and innovation.

Strong Communication and External Engagement Skills

This role requires a confident communicator who can represent the company in scientific and investor settings. You should be skilled at presenting complex research findings to varied audiences—from board members to academic collaborators—and building strategic alliances with research institutions and external partners.

Commitment to Operational Excellence and Ethical R&D

The client values a leader who brings structure, process, and compliance to dynamic R&D environments. You must have a track record of establishing scalable research operations, upholding ethical research practices, and ensuring adherence to regulatory and safety standards.

FAQs About the Role – VP of Translational Research – Prototype-to-Product Pipeline

1. What are the key responsibilities of the VP of Translational Research?
As the VP of Translational Research, you will be responsible for guiding early-stage research through preclinical and early clinical development. This includes overseeing prototype validation, leading cross-functional collaborations, managing the scientific and technical aspects of translational programs, and ensuring alignment with regulatory and commercial goals. Your role is central to converting scientific discoveries into impactful healthcare solutions.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate should have a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent in a life sciences discipline (e.g., pharmacology, immunology, biology), with extensive experience in translational research, preclinical development, and early-stage clinical support. A track record of success in biotech or pharmaceutical R&D leadership roles is essential. Experience navigating IND-enabling studies and working in cross-functional, fast-paced environments is highly valued.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?
The client is looking for a strategic scientific leader who excels in both innovation and execution. Strong communication, decision-making, and project management skills are critical. You should be able to inspire and lead multidisciplinary teams, build consensus across departments, and maintain a culture of scientific excellence, transparency, and accountability.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?
You may face challenges such as aligning diverse scientific and commercial objectives, navigating regulatory complexities, managing risk in early-stage development, and prioritizing resources across a dynamic pipeline. Success in this role will require adaptability, strategic foresight, and a hands-on approach to solving scientific and operational issues.

5. How does this role impact the company’s mission and growth?
This role is pivotal in advancing the company’s mission to bring innovative therapies and diagnostics to market. Your ability to lead translational programs directly impacts the speed and success of product development, investor confidence, and the company’s scientific reputation. You will play a key role in shaping the future of healthcare innovation within the organization.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The organization promotes a collaborative, fast-moving, and mission-driven culture. Scientific curiosity, integrity, and teamwork are at the core of their values. The company encourages cross-functional problem-solving and supports a flexible and inclusive work environment that empowers leaders to make meaningful contributions from day one.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As the Vice President of Translational Research – Prototype-to-Product Pipeline based in San Diego, CA, you can expect a robust compensation package reflective of the critical strategic value you bring to the organization. The remuneration for this high-impact role typically includes:

1. Base Salary

The base salary for a VP of Translational Research in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors varies based on company size, stage (startup vs. mid-sized vs. public), and scope of responsibility. In a growth-focused or well-capitalized biotech organization, the annual base salary generally ranges from $250,000 to $350,000, with some advanced-stage or public companies offering higher base packages for seasoned executives.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

Most VP-level roles include annual performance-based bonuses tied to scientific milestones, program delivery, regulatory advancement, and overall organizational impact. Bonus targets typically range from 20% to 50% of the base salary, with potential for higher percentages based on company and individual achievements.

3. Equity & Stock Incentives

Given the strategic importance of this role in bridging discovery and development, equity-based compensation is a key component of the package. This may include stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or performance-based equity grants. Equity participation not only aligns your success with the company’s growth but also provides long-term wealth-building opportunities. In many cases, this can represent a significant portion of your total compensation.

4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)

Some organizations also provide multi-year incentive plans designed to reward long-term contributions to pipeline progression and enterprise value creation. These LTIPs often vest over 3–5 years and are based on reaching key corporate or clinical milestones.

5. Executive Benefits & Perks

The role typically comes with a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Premium health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) plans with company match
Executive wellness and mental health programs
Flexible PTO and paid holidays
Professional development and conference allowances
Travel expense coverage and possible commuter benefits

6. Relocation Assistance & Signing Bonus

If relocation to San Diego is required, companies may offer a relocation package and/or a signing bonus to ease the transition. These one-time incentives typically range from $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the company’s size and urgency to onboard the right candidate.

Total Compensation Potential

When combining base salary, annual bonuses, equity, and long-term incentives, the total annual compensation for this role can range from $400,000 to $900,000+, with greater upside in organizations that are venture-backed, nearing IPO, or entering pivotal clinical stages. This is a rare opportunity for scientific leadership with both financial and mission-driven rewards.

How to Apply

If you are a scientific and strategic leader with deep experience in translational research and a strong track record of advancing therapeutics from concept to clinic, we invite you to apply for the Vice President of Translational Research – Prototype-to-Product Pipeline role based in San Diego, CA. This is a rare opportunity to lead mission-critical programs in a fast-paced biotech environment focused on cutting-edge innovation and patient impact.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your expertise in translational medicine, prototype development, IND-enabling studies, and cross-functional team leadership. Highlight your ability to drive scientific strategy, accelerate time-to-clinic, and translate discovery-stage research into meaningful clinical programs.

This high-impact executive role offers you the chance to shape the future of therapeutic innovation, mentor world-class scientific talent, and help guide a company poised for transformational growth. Apply today to advance your career as VP of Translational Research in one of the most vibrant biotech hubs in the world—San Diego, CA.

For more information or to explore similar executive opportunities in life sciences, visit our Upstream Research and Development Executive Search – Medical Device Innovation Page.

Job Category: Prototype-to-Product Pipeline

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: San Diego

VP of Translational Research – Prototype-to-Product Pipeline | San Diego, CA