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# VP of R&D – Oncology Diagnostics Firm – San Diego, CA


 
VP of R&D – Oncology Diagnostics Firm – San Diego, CA
Are you an innovative scientific leader with a passion for advancing cancer diagnostics? We are seeking a Vice President of Research & Development (R&D) to guide a cutting-edge oncology diagnostics company based in San Diego, CA. This is a unique opportunity to shape breakthrough technologies, lead multidisciplinary R&D teams, and accelerate the development of diagnostic solutions that improve patient outcomes. If you excel in high-stakes environments and thrive at the intersection of science, technology, and strategic leadership, this role is the ideal next step in your career.
Lead Innovation in a Fast-Growing Oncology Diagnostics Organization
A rapidly expanding oncology diagnostics firm in San Diego, CA is looking for a Vice President of R&D to drive scientific strategy, product innovation, and operational excellence across its research programs. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in molecular diagnostics, oncology biomarkers, and regulated product development. With strong leadership capabilities and a proven ability to take products from concept to commercialization, you will play a pivotal role in guiding the company’s next generation of diagnostic breakthroughs. If you’re passionate about transforming cancer care through science and innovation, this is an opportunity to create meaningful impact on a global scale.
Key Responsibilities of the VP of R&D – Oncology Diagnostics
Scientific & Strategic Leadership
Define and execute a forward-thinking R&D vision that aligns with the company’s mission to advance oncology diagnostics. Stay ahead of emerging scientific trends, set research priorities, and guide innovation pipelines for next-generation diagnostic technologies.
Product Development & Innovation
Oversee the development of molecular and biomarker-based diagnostic products from concept to commercialization. Drive feasibility studies, assay development, validation, and optimization processes to ensure scientific robustness and clinical utility.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner closely with clinical, regulatory, marketing, and operations teams to ensure seamless execution of R&D programs. Foster a culture of collaboration and scientific excellence to support high-quality product outcomes.
Regulatory & Compliance Oversight
Ensure all R&D activities comply with CLIA, CAP, FDA, and other regulatory standards. Implement strong quality management practices, documentation protocols, and audit readiness strategies to support regulatory submissions and approvals.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead a high-performing team of scientists, engineers, and research specialists. Recruit top talent, mentor team members, and build a culture focused on innovation, accountability, scientific rigor, and continuous improvement.
Technology Evaluation & Innovation Scouting
Identify emerging technologies, potential partnerships, and external collaborations that can strengthen the company’s diagnostic pipeline. Evaluate new methodologies, platforms, and scientific advancements to maintain a competitive edge.
Program Management & Execution
Oversee timelines, resources, and budgets across all R&D initiatives. Ensure projects stay on schedule, meet performance metrics, and align with corporate goals, including successful product launch timelines.
Data-Driven Decision Making
Leverage research data, clinical insights, and market trends to drive strategic decisions. Use analytics to refine development processes, enhance product sensitivity/specificity, and support go-to-market strategies.
Stakeholder Communication & Reporting
Provide regular updates to executive leadership, board members, and key stakeholders. Present scientific progress, risks, timelines, and strategic recommendations with clarity and data-driven insights.
Risk Management & Scientific Integrity
Proactively identify potential technical, scientific, or operational risks. Implement mitigation strategies, uphold the highest standards of scientific integrity, and ensure robust reproducibility across all R&D efforts.
What the Client is Looking for in You
As the VP of R&D – Oncology Diagnostics, the client is seeking a visionary scientific leader who can drive innovation, scale research operations, and bring transformative cancer diagnostic products to market. You must be a strategic thinker with deep oncology expertise and a passion for improving patient outcomes through science and technology.
Proven Leadership in Oncology Diagnostics
The client seeks an R&D executive with extensive experience in oncology diagnostics, molecular biology, biomarker discovery, or related fields. You should have a strong track record of leading research organizations, developing diagnostics, and guiding products through clinical validation and regulatory pathways.
Strategic Vision & Innovation Mindset
You must be capable of crafting long-term scientific strategies that accelerate product development and differentiate the company in a competitive market. Experience identifying unmet clinical needs, evaluating emerging technologies, and translating scientific findings into actionable product strategies is highly valued.
Deep Understanding of Regulatory & Clinical Requirements
The ideal candidate will possess strong knowledge of FDA, CLIA, and CAP regulations, as well as experience supporting clinical studies and regulatory submissions. Your expertise will ensure scientific rigor and compliance at every stage of development.
Strong Financial & Operational Acumen
You should be highly skilled in managing R&D budgets, optimizing resource allocation, and driving cost-effective innovation. The client values leaders who combine scientific excellence with disciplined operational management.
Ability to Build and Inspire High-Performing Teams
Leadership is central to this role. The client wants a VP who can recruit top scientific talent, nurture collaboration, and foster a culture of scientific excellence, accountability, and innovation. Experience scaling teams in a fast-paced biotech environment is essential.
Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement Skills
The client is looking for someone who excels at establishing strategic partnerships with clinicians, academic researchers, biopharma companies, and technology innovators. Strong communication skills and the ability to present complex science to executives and board members are critical.
Commitment to Quality, Compliance & Scientific Integrity
You must demonstrate a strong commitment to rigorous scientific standards, ethical research practices, and regulatory compliance. Ensuring precision, accuracy, and reproducibility across all R&D activities is a core expectation.
FAQs About the Role – VP of R&D – Oncology Diagnostics
1. What are the key responsibilities of the VP of R&D in this role?
The VP of R&D will lead scientific strategy, oversee product development, manage R&D teams, ensure regulatory compliance, and guide the development of oncology diagnostic products from concept to commercialization. You will also collaborate cross-functionally, manage budgets, and present scientific plans and updates to executive leadership and stakeholders.
2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?
The ideal candidate should have extensive leadership experience in oncology diagnostics, molecular biology, or related biotech fields. Experience with assay development, biomarker discovery, regulatory pathways, and clinical validation is essential. A PhD in a relevant scientific discipline is preferred, along with proven experience leading R&D teams and guiding products through regulated environments.
3. What leadership qualities are essential for success in this role?
The client seeks a strategic, data-driven leader with strong scientific vision, decision-making skills, and the ability to motivate high-performing teams. Excellent communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to manage complex R&D programs are also highly desirable.
4. What challenges can I expect in this role?
Common challenges include navigating complex regulatory requirements, managing scientific risks, keeping projects on schedule, and competing in a rapidly evolving oncology diagnostics market. Balancing innovation with quality, compliance, and operational efficiency is essential.
5. What impact is the VP of R&D expected to have on the company’s growth?
The VP of R&D will play a crucial role in advancing the company’s diagnostic pipeline, accelerating time-to-market, strengthening competitive positioning, and supporting revenue growth. Your ability to drive scientific strategy and deliver high-impact diagnostic solutions will directly influence the company’s long-term success.
6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?
The company fosters an innovative, fast-paced, and science-driven culture focused on improving cancer diagnostics. Collaboration, creativity, and scientific excellence are core values. As VP of R&D, you will have the opportunity to shape team culture while aligning R&D initiatives with the organization’s strategic goals.
What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?
As the VP of R&D – Oncology Diagnostics in San Diego, CA, you can expect a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract top scientific and executive talent in the biotech and diagnostics industry. The remuneration for this senior leadership role typically includes the following components:
1. Base Salary
The base salary for a VP of R&D in the oncology diagnostics or biotech sector generally depends on company size, funding stage, and product portfolio maturity. For mid-to-large diagnostics firms, annual base salaries typically range from $220,000 to $350,000, with higher compensation available in well-funded or publicly traded organizations.
2. Performance-Based Bonuses
In addition to the base salary, most compensation packages include annual performance-based bonuses tied to milestones such as scientific achievements, R&D productivity, regulatory progress, product launches, and company-wide goals. These bonuses generally range from 20% to 50% of the base salary depending on performance metrics.
3. Equity & Stock Options
Equity-based incentives are a key component of compensation in biotechnology and diagnostics companies. You may receive stock options, RSUs, or performance shares, aligning your contribution to the company’s long-term scientific and commercial success. For high-growth firms, equity can represent a significant portion of total compensation.
4. Long-Term Incentive Plans (LTIPs)
Some companies offer long-term incentive plans that reward sustained scientific leadership and multi-year product development outcomes. These programs may include additional equity grants, milestone-based incentives, or profit-sharing based on product commercialization success.
5. Executive Benefits & Perks
VP-level executives typically receive a full suite of benefits, which may include:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) plans with company matching
Executive wellness and health programs
Paid time off, parental leave, and sabbaticals
Professional development and scientific conference allowances
Company-sponsored travel and relocation benefits when applicable

6. Signing Bonuses & Relocation Assistance
To attract top-tier R&D leaders, companies may offer a signing bonus or a relocation package, especially for candidates moving to San Diego’s competitive biotech hub. These incentives may range from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on company policy and candidate experience.
Total Compensation Potential
When combining base salary, bonus, equity, and long-term incentives, total annual compensation for a VP of R&D in oncology diagnostics can range from $300,000 to over $700,000, with significantly higher potential at larger or publicly traded biotechnology firms.
How to Apply
If you are an innovative and strategic scientific leader with extensive experience in oncology diagnostics, we invite you to apply for the VP of R&D – Oncology Diagnostics role in San Diego, CA. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a cutting-edge R&D organization, drive breakthrough scientific discoveries, and shape the future of cancer diagnostics.
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience in molecular diagnostics, oncology research, assay development, regulatory strategy, and scientific team leadership. Highlight your accomplishments in developing diagnostic products, leading high-performing R&D teams, and translating scientific innovations into clinically meaningful solutions.
This role offers a high-impact career path where you will influence scientific strategy, guide next-generation diagnostic development, and contribute directly to transforming patient outcomes. Apply today to advance your career as a VP of R&D in one of the most innovative oncology diagnostics environments in San Diego, CA.
For more information or to explore additional senior-level scientific leadership roles, visit our Oncology Medical Device Executive Search Firm Page.
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VP of R&D | Oncology Diagnostics Jobs | Life Sciences Executive Jobs | R&D Leadership | Molecular Diagnostics | Biomarker Discovery | Precision Oncology | Clinical Diagnostics Innovation | Scientific Research Leadership | Biotech Executive Careers