Head of Natural Sciences

Are you ready to shape the future of natural sciences and sustainable energy research in Denmark and beyond? Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) is seeking a visionary and strategically minded Head of the Natural Sciences Department to lead strategic initiatives and enable research at the highest level within the natural sciences, foster interdisciplinary collaboration. The area has a strong focus on fundamental research, and the successful candidate is expected to also help build a new portfolio within sustainable non-fossil-based energy research. This is your opportunity to influence national and international research agendas and build a legacy of scientific excellence.

The job and the organisation

As Head of Natural Sciences, you will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for the Foundation’s natural science activities, including energy-related and interdisciplinary research. Your responsibilities will include:

• Setting strategic direction for NNF’s activities within Natural Sciences 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 centre for Protein Design (CPD) and the Danish Advanced Research Academy (DARA).
• Developing a new focus area within non-fossil-based energy research.
• Developing, adjusting and overseeing innovative open competition programmes such as the NERD and the Interdisciplinary Synergy Programmes.   
• 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.
• 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 scientific advancement.

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

NNF is 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 natural sciences research, ideally with an academic level at the professor or level.
• Proven leadership as of large research groups, programmes, consortia, or institutions.
• Strong insight into both national and international research ecosystems within the natural sciences.
• Ability to build strategy based on deep scientific insights and global trends.

Education

• PhD degree in natural or technical sciences.
• Masters / bachelor’s degree in a biotechnology-relevant field.

Personal qualities

• Visionary mindset with the ability to identify emerging scientific opportunities.
• Courageous decision-maker with sound judgement.
• Empathetic leadership style with a focus on trust, collaboration, and development.
• Excellent communicator and respected networker.
• Fluent in English; oral and written.

Application

If you are ready to enable the future of natural sciences, 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.