Head of Biotechnology

Are you ready to shape the future of sustainable biotechnology on a global scale? Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) is seeking a visionary and strategically minded Head of the Biotechnology Department to lead high-impact research-based initiatives in biotechnology, biomanufacturing and environmental microbiology. This is your opportunity to drive scientific research, innovation, build strategic partnerships, and contribute to solving some of the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges.

The job and the organisation

As Head of Biotechnology, you will be responsible for setting the strategic direction of the Foundation’s biotechnology efforts, with a strong focus on sustainability and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Your responsibilities will include:

Setting strategic direction for NNF’s activities within Biotechnology by developing and overseeing the portfolio of strategic projects and initiatives in alignment with the Foundation’s 2030 strategy.

• Managing and developing flagship programmes such as the NNF research centers BRIGHT and CORC which focus on microbial foods, sustainable materials, and CO₂ utilisation, respectively.
• Building and managing a high-performing team of scientific experts that interact synergistically with colleagues in the Foundation as well as with external stakeholders.
• Establishing strong connections with relevant stakeholders, nationally and internationally, and representing the Foundation externally at conferences, panels, and institutional meetings.
• Engaging with relevant national and international stakeholders, including universities, ministries, and industry leaders.
• Developing, adjusting and overseeing open competition programmes and expert committees within biotechnology.
• Leading, supporting, contributing to, and encouraging cross-departmental collaboration across the Planetary Science and Technology area, as well as across the entire Foundation.
• Reporting directly to the Chief Scientific Officer of Planetary Science and Technology.

 This is a rare opportunity to have significant impact and set strategic direction within a purpose-driven, globally visible organisation at the forefront of biotechnology and sustainability.

The position is based in Copenhagen, Denmark, where physical presence is expected. Travel nationally and internationally is to be expected (~30–50 days per year).

Professional and personal qualifications

We are looking for a strategic thinker and inclusive leader with deep scientific expertise, collaborative skills, and strong stakeholder engagement skills.

Experience & expertise

• Minimum 15 years of relevant experience in biotechnology research, ideally with an academic level at the professor or level.
• Proven leadership of large research groups, programmes, consortia, or institutions.
• Strong insight into both academic and industrial biotech ecosystems.
• Ability to build strategy based on deep scientific insights and global trends.

 Education

• PhD degree in a biotechnology-related field.
• Masters / Bachelor degree in a biotechnology-relevant field.

Personal qualities

• Visionary mindset with the ability to identify emerging scientific opportunities.
• Empathetic leadership style with a focus on trust, collaboration, and development.
• Excellent communicator with strong stakeholder management skills.
• Ethical role model with resilience and professionalism.
• Fluent in English; oral and written.

Application

If you are ready to enable the future of biotechnology, we encourage you to apply. To apply, please send your CV, cover letter, and any other relevant documents by clicking on the “Apply now” button. For more information, please contact Merete Søby at [email protected] or +45 40 70 25 90. All inquiries will be handled with strict confidentiality.

Please send your application and CV no later than 20 October before 9:00am CET 2025.

About the Novo Nordisk Foundation

Established in Denmark in 1924, the Novo Nordisk Foundation is an enterprise foundation with philanthropic objectives. The vision of the Foundation is to improve people’s health and the sustainability of society and the planet. The Foundation’s mission is to progress research and innovation in the prevention and treatment of cardiometabolic and infectious diseases as well as to advance knowledge and solutions to support a green transformation of society.