Role Overview for VP Translational Research – San Diego, CA
JRG Partners is proud to represent a pioneering, clinical-stage biotechnology company at the forefront of developing next-generation therapeutics. Located in the vibrant biotech hub of San Diego, CA, our client is driven by a mission to translate groundbreaking scientific discoveries into life-changing medicines for patients with significant unmet needs. We are seeking a visionary and highly accomplished scientific leader to join their executive team as the Vice President of Translational Research. This is a pivotal leadership role that will serve as the critical bridge between discovery research and clinical development, shaping the future of the company’s innovative pipeline.
The VP of Translational Research will be responsible for crafting and executing a comprehensive, forward-thinking translational science and biomarker strategy that is deeply integrated with our client’s corporate and clinical objectives. This individual will provide scientific, strategic, and managerial leadership to a dedicated team of scientists, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific rigor. The successful candidate will be a key influencer across the organization, working closely with colleagues in Discovery, Preclinical Development, Clinical Operations, Regulatory Affairs, and Medical Affairs to ensure a seamless transition of novel therapeutic candidates from the laboratory to the clinic and ultimately to patients. This role requires a deep understanding of disease biology, biomarker technologies, clinical trial design, and the regulatory landscape. You will be instrumental in making data-driven decisions, de-risking clinical programs, identifying patient populations most likely to benefit from treatment, and maximizing the potential of the company’s portfolio. This is a unique opportunity to make a transformative impact on a growing organization and on the lives of patients worldwide.
Key Responsibilities of VP Translational Research – San Diego, CA
The Vice President of Translational Research will have a broad range of responsibilities, including but not limited to:
Strategic Leadership and Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute an integrated, end-to-end translational research and biomarker strategy that aligns with the company’s overall R&D and corporate goals. Proactively identify and champion new technologies, methodologies, and scientific insights to maintain the company’s competitive edge.
Biomarker Discovery and Development
Lead all aspects of biomarker science, including the discovery, development, validation, and clinical implementation of pharmacodynamic, prognostic, predictive, and safety biomarkers. Ensure the delivery of robust and reliable biomarker assays for use in clinical trials.
Clinical Trial Integration
Provide translational expertise for the design of innovative, biomarker-driven clinical trials. Oversee the integration of biomarker plans into clinical protocols, manage sample collection and analysis, and ensure timely data interpretation to inform clinical decisions and program progression.
Team Leadership and Mentorship
Build, lead, and mentor a world-class team of translational scientists. Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture that encourages scientific curiosity, excellence, and professional growth. Manage departmental resources, including budget, personnel, and external collaborations.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key translational science partner to project teams and functional area heads. Work seamlessly with Discovery Research to guide target selection and validation, with Preclinical Development on IND-enabling studies, and with the Clinical team to support all phases of clinical development.
Regulatory Strategy and Interaction
Provide critical translational science input for regulatory documents and meetings. Ensure that biomarker strategies and data packages are robust and fit-for-purpose for global regulatory submissions, ensuring compliance with FDA and EMA guidelines. Author and review relevant sections of INDs, CTAs, IBs, and NDAs/BLAs.
External Engagement and Communication
Establish and maintain a strong network of external collaborators, including key opinion leaders (KOLs), academic researchers, and contract research organizations (CROs). Represent the company at scientific conferences, advisory boards, and investor meetings, effectively communicating the company’s translational science strategy and data.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
Oversee the analysis, interpretation, and integration of complex biomarker and clinical data sets. Translate key findings into actionable insights that guide clinical strategy, patient selection, and next-generation therapeutic development.
Requirements for the VP Translational Research – San Diego, CA
We are seeking a candidate who possesses a unique blend of scientific expertise, strategic acumen, and leadership presence. The ideal candidate will meet the following qualifications:
Educational Background
An MD, PhD, or MD/PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, Pharmacology, or a related field) is required.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry, with at least 8-10 years of direct experience in translational research/medicine and a proven track record of increasing leadership responsibility.
Therapeutic Area Expertise
Deep scientific knowledge and drug development experience in oncology, immunology, or rare diseases is strongly preferred. Experience with multiple therapeutic modalities (e.g., small molecules, biologics, cell therapy) is highly desirable.
Biomarker Expertise
Extensive, hands-on experience in the entire biomarker lifecycle, from discovery and assay development to clinical validation and implementation in Phase 1-3 trials. Must have a strong understanding of various technology platforms (e.g., genomics, proteomics, flow cytometry, IHC, digital pathology).
Clinical Development Acumen
A sophisticated understanding of clinical trial design, operations, and the challenges of drug development. Demonstrated success in utilizing translational insights to impact clinical programs, such as influencing go/no-go decisions or defining patient stratification strategies.
Regulatory Knowledge
In-depth experience with the regulatory aspects of drug development, including authoring relevant sections of regulatory filings (INDs, NDAs, BLAs) and interacting with global health authorities.
Leadership and Management Skills
Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams. A history of effective mentorship, talent development, and resource management. Must possess exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to influence and align stakeholders across a matrixed organization.
Communication and Presentation Skills
Impeccable written and verbal communication skills. The ability to distill complex scientific concepts and present them clearly and compellingly to a wide range of audiences, from scientific teams to executive leadership and external partners.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a highly competitive compensation and benefits package. They believe in investing in their employees’ well-being and professional growth. The comprehensive package includes:
Competitive Salary and Bonus
A highly competitive base salary complemented by an annual performance-based bonus.
Equity Participation
A significant equity package (stock options or RSUs) to ensure you share in the company’s long-term success.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for professional development, including attendance at scientific conferences, workshops, and courses.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for exceptional candidates.
On-Site Amenities
A modern and collaborative workspace with amenities such as catered lunches, a stocked kitchen, and wellness programs.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary translational science leader passionate about bringing novel therapies to patients, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. To be considered, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. JRG Partners is managing this search exclusively on behalf of our client. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search for the life sciences sector. We connect innovative companies with the transformative talent they need to succeed. Explore more opportunities in our Top Biosciences Executive Recruiters Practice Area.
