We use cookies. Find out more about it here. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.
#alert
Back to search results

VP, Development Research (hybrid)

Cerus Corporation
tuition reimbursement, 401(k)
United States, California, Concord
Jan 07, 2025

About Cerus:

Cerus aims to be the global leader and trusted partner of blood centers and hospitals whose technology, services, and commitment are the lifeblood of safe and accessible blood for patients around the world.

This is a hybrid opportunity where incumbent is onsite 3 days per week.

Lead all research initiatives related to new product innovations for the INTERCEPT portfolio and provide research and development support for the existing product portfolio. Develop external research collaborations with leading researchers in the fields of transfusion medicine, trauma, hemoglobinopathies, and other hematology/oncology disciplines. Advance Cerus' scientific stature and intellectual property portfolio through publication and other external communication efforts

Responsible for prioritizing, organizing, and driving research and development activities in the general areas of transfusion medicine, pathogen inactivation and related areas, to improve upon the INTERCEPT portfolio, or develop new applications. Development of novel assays to maintain Cerus' lead position in the support of product performance with both customers and regulators.

Primary Responsibilities:



  • Lead early-stage research efforts and drive progress on programs through research team or by influence and initiative cross functionally.
  • Responsible for oversight of multiple research and development laboratory functions and a team of 40-50 scientists in total
  • Enhance team based approach advance Cerus' corporative mission.
  • Develop strategies in collaboration with others to ensure effective achievement of scientific objectives as they relate to product development, support and research.
  • Participate broadly in scientific publications and presentations; review publications to ensure consistency with corporate objectives.
  • Lead externally funded research programs and government contractors associated with those programs
  • Develop and validate novel assays to support development programs and streamline regulatory submissions.
  • Participate in the review and editing of research and development reports, regulatory submissions and quality documentation for global regulatory authorities
  • Identify issues and control risks involved which may delay products/projects while recommending appropriate actions to be taken to ensure accomplishment of milestones, timelines and budgets.


  • Spearhead research collaborations and assist business development with the evaluation of novel ideas.
  • Lead internal Research Review Committee.
  • Provide scientific support to global commercial team.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key international thought leaders.
  • Present scientific data and product/medical information to transfusing physicians, hematologists, oncologists, surgeons and other physician targets.


  • Continually evaluate and analyze current industry trends to ensure that new ideas and technologies are incorporated into company strategies and research and development initiatives.
  • Participate in intellectual property development activities to ensure that ideas are appropriately protected and that patent strategies are aligned with corporate priorities.
  • Participate in all human resource activities such as recruiting key talent, performance management, coaching, training and employee development.
  • Manage annual budget for research and development groups and external collaborations.


Qualifications/Requirements:



  • PhD in a scientific discipline with a minimum of 15 years related experience.
  • Previous management experience with demonstrated organizational and leadership skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to make effective decisions in a complex environment involving trade-offs and risk-benefit analysis.


  • Ability to drive clear strategies that are aligned with corporate goals and long-term company vision.
  • Ability to leverage technical expertise and input from others to identify critical issues and make strategic recommendations.


  • High level of initiative to pursue novel opportunities and build/develop research team and capabilities to advance the company's portfolio.
  • Background in biologics development from initial research studies through early-stage clinical study initiation.
  • Ability to interact constructively with cross functional team members and with executive leadership team.
  • Recognize and focus on critical path activities and instill that focus into others.
  • Engaged with laboratory team in hands on manner
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to interface at all levels including board of directors, management and staff personnel both internally and externally (encompasses verbal, written, listening).
  • Experience managing a GLP facility and ensuring compliance with ISO standards and other regulatory and safety requirements.



We understand that our people are essential to our success. This philosophy is revealed in our competitive benefits package, designed to improve employees' lives both on and off the job.

Benefits plans: medical, dental, vision, domestic partner benefits, paid maternity and paternity leaves, healthcare and dependent care flexible spending, life and accidental death insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, matching 401(k), ESPP, RSUs

Work and family: EAP, legal and financial services, health club membership discounts, tuition reimbursement

Compensation: The base salary range for this position in the selected city is $282,000-$350,000 annually. Compensation may vary outside of this range depending on various factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, experience, and location. Base pay is one part of the total package to compensate and recognize employees for their work.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability.


Applied = 0

(web-6f6965f9bf-g8wr6)