Chief Scientific Officer / VP, R&D - Biotechnology

Yorktown Search Partners; Toronto; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotechnology firm is seeking a Chief Scientific Officer / VP, R&D in Toronto, ON. The role involves steering the research agenda, advancing bio-engineered innovations, and leading a high-performing scientific team. Key qualifications include a PhD in a relevant field and 10+ years in leadership roles within biotech. This hybrid position offers the chance to drive significant partnerships and commercialization efforts.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of leadership in biosynthesis or synthetic biology.
• Demonstrated success in commercial applications from research.
• Experience in high-growth biotech organizations.

Responsibilities

• Expand and manage patent families and scientific validation.
• Lead R&D in metabolic engineering and yield optimization.
• Develop collaborations with universities and research institutions.

Skills

Leadership in biosynthesis

Communication

Metabolic engineering

Commercialization

Education

PhD in Metabolic Engineering or related field

Job description

Chief Scientific Officer / VP, R&D - Biotechnology

Job Openings Chief Scientific Officer / VP, R&D - Biotechnology

About the job Chief Scientific Officer / VP, R&D - Biotechnology

Chief Scientific Officer / VP, R&D

Confidential job posting by Yorktown Search on behalf of a confidential client
Location: Toronto, ON (Hybrid)

Overview
A leading biotechnology company is seeking a Chief Scientific Officer / Vice President, R&D to own the research agenda and advance a growing portfolio of bio-engineered innovations. The role will steer metabolic engineering and biosynthesis programs, translate patents into proof-of-concept applications with commercial potential, and build partnerships with universities, CROs, and multinational strategics. The executive will ensure the pipeline is scientifically rigorous, data-driven, and transaction-ready.

Key Responsibilities

• Expand and manage patent families; guide new filings and scientific validation.
• Lead R&D in metabolic engineering, biosynthetic pathway design, and yield optimization.
• Deliver proof-of-concept applications across supplements, skincare, and wellness products.
• Develop collaborations with universities, research institutions, CROs, and corporate partners.
• Generate data packages that support regulatory filings and de-risk IP for licensing/acquisition.
• Represent the science in investor discussions, diligence processes, and industry forums.
• Recruit, mentor, and lead a high-performing scientific team aligned to commercialization goals.

Qualifications

• PhD in Metabolic Engineering, Synthetic Biology, Biochemistry, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership in biosynthesis, synthetic biology, or adjacent areas.
• Demonstrated success taking patents/research through proof-of-concept to commercial application.
• Experience within high-growth biotech or synthetic biology organizations is a strong asset.
• Exceptional communicator who can translate complex science for investors, regulators, and partners.

Why This Role
Join a company operating at the intersection of science, strategy, and commercialization. As CSO/VP, R&D, you'll shape the research portfolio, drive partnerships and licensing opportunities, and help position the platform for global growth and strategic transactions.

Application Process
To apply, please submit your resume. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.