Head of R&D

Barrington James is partnering with a research-driven organization to appoint a Head of R&D.

This opportunity sits within a highly specialized neuroscience CRO environment focused on advanced preclinical modelling of neurodegenerative and neurological disorders. The organization has built a strong scientific foundation in in vitro and in vivo CNS models, supporting drug discovery through mechanism-of-action research, translational science, and pharmacological profiling.

Its R&D function plays a central role in developing and validating disease-relevant experimental platforms, enabling partners to better understand complex neurological pathways and accelerate therapeutic development. Research capabilities span key areas such as neuroinflammation, protein aggregation, synaptic dysfunction, and mitochondrial biology, with an emphasis on generating robust, predictive preclinical data through integrated and technology-enabled approaches.

This is a senior scientific leadership role reporting to executive leadership, responsible for defining and executing the R&D vision across neuroscience programs. You will lead multidisciplinary teams and oversee the development of innovative research platforms, ensuring scientific excellence across both internal and partner-driven studies.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and scientific leadership across all R&D activities in neuro systems
• Drive the development and validation of in vitro and in vivo disease models for neurological disorders
• Lead research into disease mechanisms, pathways, and therapeutic response
• Oversee complex, multi-disciplinary research programs across pharmacology and translational neuroscience
• Integrate advanced technologies and data-driven approaches into R&D workflows
• Lead, mentor, and grow high-performing scientific teams
• Act as senior scientific interface with external partners and collaborators
• Contribute to portfolio strategy, pipeline prioritization, and scientific direction

Essential Requirements

• PhD in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Biology, or related discipline
• Significant industry experience in CNS drug discovery, preclinical research, or translational neuroscience
• Strong expertise in neurodegenerative disease biology and preclinical modelling
• Proven experience in mechanism-of-action studies and pharmacological evaluation
• Experience working within CRO environments and managing external collaborations
• Demonstrated leadership of multidisciplinary R&D teams
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence at senior level

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
• A highly innovative, science-led R&D environment
• Location: France On-site (open to relocation within France)