Head of Innovation

Health Innovation Research Alliance Northern Ireland; Ireland; On-site; EUR 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contract research organisation in Northern Ireland is seeking a Head of Innovation to drive growth through the development of new assays and services. The role requires a combination of scientific expertise and commercial acumen, focusing on managing R&D projects and building client relationships. The ideal candidate will possess a PhD or MSc in a life science discipline, with proven experience in assay development and a strong network in the industry. This position offers competitive remuneration and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

8% combined pension contribution scheme

Healthcare package

Flexible working options

Professional development support

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in a life science discipline (e.g., Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology).
• Demonstrated experience in assay/method development within a CRO, biotech, or pharma context.
• Strong understanding of the commercialization of scientific services.

Responsibilities

• Identify market gaps and client needs, developing novel assays and services.
• Lead internal R&D projects from concept to validated service.
• Build new customer relationships and deliver technical sales presentations.

Skills

Scientific commercialization

Networking

Market opportunity identification

Assay/method development

Excellent communication skills

Education

PhD or MSc in life science

Job description

Axis Bioservices is a Northern Ireland-based contract research organisation (CRO) delivering high-quality life sciences research and development services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies worldwide. We specialise in assay development, preclinical testing, and advanced scientific support – helping clients bring innovative products to market.

The Role

We are seeking a dynamic Head of Innovation to drive Axis Bioservices’ growth through the creation, validation, and launch of new assays and services. This senior-level role blends hands‑on scientific expertise with commercial acumen and strategic vision.

You will develop commercially viable scientific offerings, manage select client projects, and actively build new business through client outreach, networking, and representation at conferences. This is a rare opportunity for a scientist with a passion for innovation to take a central role in shaping the company’s future capabilities and services.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify market gaps and client needs, developing novel assays and services for commercial launch.
• Lead internal R&D projects from concept to validated service.
• Oversee select client projects, ensuring scientific delivery to agreed timelines and quality standards.
• Build new customer relationships and deliver technical sales presentations.
• Represent Axis Bioservices at conferences, industry events, and client meetings.
• Achieve agreed revenue targets, with commission incentives for successful project acquisition.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on strategic innovation priorities.

• PhD or MSc in a life science discipline (e.g., Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology).
• Demonstrated experience in assay/method development within a CRO, biotech, or pharma context.
• Strong understanding of commercialisation of scientific services.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and networking skills.
• Proven ability to identify and act on new market opportunities.
• Experience presenting at national/international scientific conferences.
• Existing network of industry contacts.
• Business development experience in a scientific organisation.
• Track record of launching a scientific service or product to market.

Job Type

Full time, Permanent

Location and Travel

Onsite (Limavady) with travel up to 20% (including, but not limited to, conferences, client visits and industry events)

Salary & Benefits

Commission: Percentage of new revenue generated via client acquisition.

Professional development and conference attendance support.

Travel expenses for client visits and events.

Flexible working options where possible.

Application Process

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant scientific and commercial experience, and how you have contributed to service or product innovation in your career.

What we offer

We will help you build a career with a progressive and dynamically growing Company by providing full on-site training, 8% combined pension contribution scheme, flexible working hours, a healthcare package and service driven staff benefits including private medical cover. We support staff wellbeing and have initiatives to support you physical and mental health.