Head of Research And Development

A rare opportunity to lead and build the R&D engine behind next-generation microbiology diagnostics - strategically and hands-on.

Welcome to inbiome

At inbiome, we are building the next generation of clinical microbiology diagnostics. Bacteria shape human health in profound ways, yet clinicians are still required to make high-stakes decisions with incomplete microbial information. We are on a mission to change that.

Our Molecular Culture assay is a same-day, IVDR-certified technology for broad bacterial identification in sterile site infections. We are preparing the launch of our Bloodstream Infection (BSI) application and advancing a focused R&D pipeline that includes rapid fungal diagnostics and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) solutions.

We work closely with more than 20 leading hospitals across Europe and the United States to ensure our assays are clinically relevant, rigorously validated, and embedded in real-world care pathways.

Inbiome is a fast-growing scale-up located in the Amsterdam Science Park. Our international team of around 30 colleagues works as a tightly integrated team, combining molecular biology, data science, and software development to deliver solutions that transform how biological challenges are understood, analysed, and solved.

We are now looking for a Head of Research & Development to lead and strengthen our R&D function, and to shape the next generation of our platform and product portfolio.

The Role: Head of Research & Development

As Head of R&D, you will play a key role in shaping and executing inbiome’s research and assay development strategy across our expanding microbiology portfolio.

This is a hybrid leadership role: you will work hands-on on the development of new molecular diagnostic assays while structuring, coordinating, and elevating the entire R&D function. You combine scientific depth with strong leadership and data-driven execution.

Your responsibilities include:

• Defining and executing the R&D strategy aligned with company objectives and pipeline expansion
• Leading, mentoring, and developing the R&D team while fostering a high-performance culture and scientific excellence
• Working hands-on on the development and validation of new molecular diagnostic assays
• Establishing interdisciplinary project planning and execution, aligning lab, data science, and software development around shared milestones, reporting, and risk management
• Ensuring regulatory robustness and launch readiness (IVDR), translating scientific innovation into compliant, market-ready diagnostic products

This role offers the opportunity to transform strong science into scalable, IVDR-compliant products that reach clinicians and patients worldwide.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for an experienced R&D leader with a strong scientific track record in molecular diagnostics and assay development in clinical microbiology.

You combine deep domain expertise with proven leadership capabilities, and you thrive in multidisciplinary environments where molecular biology, data science, and software development come together in one product. You are structured and transparent in your communication, comfortable making decisions in a fast-moving setting, and able to balance scientific creativity with disciplined execution and clear governance.

Requirements

• PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline, with substantial industry experience in molecular diagnostics
• Proven track record of leading the development of molecular diagnostic assays from concept through validation and productization (highly preferred)
• Demonstrated experience building and leading high-performing R&D teams in an industry setting
• Strong experience managing interdisciplinary development programs, integrating wet lab research with data science and software components
• Experience operating in regulated environments (IVDR or equivalent), with exposure to design control and regulatory approval processes

What We Offer

• A key leadership position at a pivotal stage in inbiome’s growth, playing a central role in translating cutting-edge science into meaningful healthcare impact.
• Direct influence on the scientific direction and product strategy of next-generation microbiology diagnostics
• Competitive salary including 13th month, pension scheme, and employee stock options
• Hybrid working flexibility and travel allowance
• A highly collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment where science, data, and software are developed side by side

Join inbiome and help build the future of microbiology diagnostics!

Please only apply if you fit the profile & have the requested skills and experience via [email protected]

We look forward to receiving your resume and motivation letter.

For now, we are not interested to receive calls from agencies, and we will only respond to short list candidates.