Senior Manager, R&D - Cell & Gene Therapy

West Leland Group; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation and benefits package

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

A specialized recruitment agency is seeking a scientific leader to guide R&D efforts in cell and gene therapies. This role requires a PhD and at least 7 years of relevant experience in biotech or pharma. Successful candidates will demonstrate strong leadership abilities and a track record in advancing cellular innovations. Competitive compensation and professional growth opportunities are offered.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of relevant experience in biotech, pharma, or academic research.
• Strong leadership experience with the ability to mentor high-performing teams.
• Track record of advancing cellular platforms or therapies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of scientists and engineers.
• Design and oversee research programs in cell therapies and cellular engineering.
• Partner with leaders across functions to align research with business goals.

Skills

Leadership

Research Program Design

Cell Biology

Immunology

Communication

Education

PhD in Cell Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering

Job description

Overview

West Leland Group is supporting a leading life sciences company as they expand their R&D leadership team. We’re seeking a scientific leader to spearhead research programs advancing cell and gene therapy platforms. This role will guide a small but high-impact team of scientists and engineers, driving experimental design, research execution, and strategic collaborations that shape the future of cellular innovation.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and mentor a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians, fostering growth, collaboration, and innovation.
• Design and oversee research programs in cell biology, cell therapies, regenerative medicine, immunology, and cellular engineering.
• Evaluate and advance emerging technologies for internal development or external partnerships.
• Ensure scientific rigor and innovation across all programs and collaborations.
• Partner cross-functionally with Clinical, Regulatory, Engineering, Business Development, and Commercial leaders to align research with business goals.
• Represent science externally at conferences, symposia, and through academic/industry collaborations.
• Prioritize projects and resources to maximize scientific and business impact.

What You Bring

• PhD in Cell Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of relevant experience in biotech, pharma, or academic research, ideally including translational science or photobiology.
• Track record of advancing cellular platforms or therapies, supported by publications and/or patents.
• Strong leadership experience with the ability to build, mentor, and inspire high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication skills, comfortable presenting to executives, collaborators, and at scientific forums.

Why Join

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Professional development and career growth opportunities.
• A collaborative, innovative environment where your leadership will directly influence the future of cell and gene therapies.

About West Leland Group

West Leland Group is a boutique search focused on Quality, Regulatory, and R&D roles for medical device, biotech and pharmaceutical companies. With deep industry expertise and a long-term approach, we help innovative organizations build the teams driving better health outcomes. Thoughtful Search. Purposeful Hiring.

This search is being managed by West Leland Group on behalf of our client. West Leland Group is an equal opportunity search partner. Qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. This is a direct-hire position with a client company offering competitive compensation and benefits.