Director R&D

Portal Biotech is a high-tech, fast growing startup company pioneering the development of next-generation single-molecule biosensors for proteomic and metabolomic analysis. Our purpose is to revolutionize the detection of biologically critical proteomic and metabolomic biomarkers to drive advances in healthcare and the wider life sciences. Our team consists of passionate scientists, engineers, and professionals driven by a shared mission to revolutionize human health, technology and biology. We are realizing this through the development of the company’s cutting-edge proprietary nanopore technology, which is an emerging single-molecule biosensing technology that is uniquely capable of addressing a wide range of unmet needs across the life sciences.

As we grow, we’re looking for a Director of R&D to help scale our research programs and align our science with our company’s strategic goals.

Position Overview:

The Director of R&D will play a key leadership role in managing and guiding the company’s scientific efforts. You will oversee multiple internal research teams, ensure timely execution of research programs, and act as the key liaison between the CSO, scientists, and executive team.

This role requires someone who is both scientifically rigorous and organizationally sharp — someone who can keep experiments on track while seeing the bigger picture.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and coordinate all internal R&D efforts across programs and teams
• Work closely with the CSO and the executive team to align scientific goals with company milestones
• Oversee project timelines, priorities, and resource allocation across research teams
• Communicate project status, risks, and needs to leadership and cross-functional teams
• Ensure consistent documentation, data quality, and scientific reporting
• Mentor and manage senior scientific staff and team leads
• Help evaluate and onboard new technologies, methods, and partnerships
• Contribute to IP strategy and scientific publications as appropriate

Requirements:

• PhD in Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or related field (Master’s with strong leadership background also considered)
• 10+ years of experience in biotech or pharmaceutical R&D
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing teams and/or multiple concurrent projects
• Deep understanding of experimental design, data analysis, and regulatory awareness
• Strong cross-functional communication skills; comfortable presenting to executives and external partners
• Proven ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution
• Bonus: experience in startup or fast-paced innovation environments

Benefits:

Portal is an equal opportunities employer. We are enriched by our diversity and are committed to creating and sustaining an inclusive and equitable environment for all. We are a values-led enterprise, and the dedication, passion, and enthusiasm of our talented employees is our cornerstone. We strive to create an environment where our team feel empowered to be their best selves, and where they enjoy working and building both the technologies and our company with us.

Employees receive a competitive salary, 25 days of holiday plus bank holidays, and the opportunity to participate in our share option scheme.

Reach out if you are curious, committed and collaborative, are interested in developing the next generation of biosensing technology.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for references to careers-nl@portalbiotech.com. Please include ” Director of R&D – NL” in the subject line of your email. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

At Portal Biotech, we believe diversity drives innovation and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all individuals are valued and empowered. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

Join us in our mission to transform healthcare through groundbreaking research and innovation. Apply today!