R&D and Innovation Manager

R+D and Innovation Manager

 MedTech Barcelona, a company of LEITAT Technological Center, specializes in providing advanced in vitro cell-based tools for ADME-Tox and DMPK applications. Our product portfolio supports key stages of drug discovery, including absorption studies, drug-transporter interactions, and toxicity testing. Leveraging patent technology that enables the shipment of live cells at room temperature while maintaining viability and phenotypic integrity, we simplify logistics and shorten delivery times for our global clients.

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary R&D and Innovation Manager to lead MedTech Barcelona´s research and development initiatives and actively contribute to the strategic growth of the company. This is a key leadership role responsible for driving innovation, managing scientific programs, and ensuring the development of impactful products and technologies.

As R&D and Innovation Manager, you will work closely with cross-functional teams—including production, marketing, and commercial—to ensure alignment between scientific advancement and business objectives. A strong background in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sectors, paired with excellent project management and leadership skills, is essential.

We are looking for a candidate who combines scientific expertise with strategic vision, capable of turning ideas into tangible results. A successful candidate will be a collaborative leader who fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and long-term value creation..

Key Responsibilities

• Scientific & Strategic Leadership: Lead R&D initiatives from concept to execution, ensuring scientific rigor, fostering innovation, and aligning efforts with organizational goals—particularly in the development of new products.

• Market Intelligence & Strategic Exploration: Monitor emerging trends and opportunities in the pharma and biotech sectors. Identify new application areas for our technologies and contribute to roadmap development and strategic planning.

• Client-Focused Innovation: Engage with key customers to understand their scientific and technical needs and translate these into actionable R&D solutions that address market demands.

• Scientific Communication & Positioning: Produce high-quality scientific content for digital platforms (LinkedIn, webinars, whitepapers, etc.) in partnership with the marketing team. 

• Representation & Networking: Represent MedTech Barcelona at scientific conferences and industry events. Deliver presentations, participate in panel discussions, and build relationships with key opinion leaders and stakeholders.

Skills and Experience

• Proven expertise in experimental laboratory techniques with a strong focus on cell culture methodologies.

• Ability to communicate complex scientific ideas clearly and professionally in English (written and spoken)

• Confident speaker with experience at conferences, webinars, or scientific forums

• Experience in scientific writing and developing content for professional audiences

• Strong knowledge of the pharmaceutical and life sciences landscape, with interest in market trends and strategic insights

• Strong leadership and decision-making capabilities, with a collaborative and proactive mindset

• Creative and adaptable, with a forward-thinking approach to emerging technologies

Requirements

• PhD in Life Sciences or related field

• Previous experience in a similar R&D leadership role

• Expertise in cell biology, drug discovery, or related biomedical areas

• Familiarity with pharma/biotech industry standards and regulatory frameworks

• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken; additional languages is an asset

• Willingness to travel occasionally (conferences, client meetings, collaborations)

Job Offer

• Immediate incorporation
• Full-time position
• Flexible working hours
• On-site role at the Barcelona Science Park (PCB)
• A dynamic, innovative, and purpose-driven environment

Interested candidates must submit their resume to Lorena Rial (lrial@leitat.org)