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Chief Scientific Officer Biotech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Legend Biotech is seeking a Chief Scientific Officer as part of the Research & Development team ... based in Somerset, NJ.Role OverviewLegend Biotech is recruiting a visionary scientist, an ...

Chief Scientific Officer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$150 - $220/hr

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... a Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) to partner with the CEO and Executive Leadership Team in ... Proven track record of building and scaling scientific organizations within biotech, life sciences ...

Chief Scientific Officer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... a Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) to partner with the CEO and Executive Leadership Team in ... Proven track record of building and scaling scientific organizations within biotech, life sciences ...

... a Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) to partner with the CEO and Executive Leadership Team in ... Proven track record of building and scaling scientific organizations within biotech, life sciences ...

Chief Scientific Officer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

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Position Summary: The Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) reports to the EVP, Head of Research ... D., or equivalent). * 17+ years of progressive biotechnology or pharmaceutical leadership ...

Principal AI Scientist and Lead

Boston, MA · Hybrid

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... biotech and CRO organisations worldwide. This position is one of a kind and is the first hire into ... The position reports to the Chief Scientific Officer and, within twelve to eighteen months, you ...

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Chief Scientific Officer Biotech information

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$47K

$118.5K

$156K

How much do chief scientific officer biotech jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief scientific officer biotech in the United States is $118,455.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief scientific officer in biotech, and why are they important?

To excel as a Chief Scientific Officer in biotech, a Ph.D. or advanced degree in a life science field, extensive research experience, and a proven track record of scientific leadership are essential. Familiarity with laboratory management systems, data analysis platforms, and regulatory compliance standards (such as FDA or EMA) is typically required. Strategic vision, strong communication, and the ability to foster collaboration across multidisciplinary teams are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure scientific innovation, effective team leadership, and successful navigation of complex regulatory and business landscapes in the biotech industry.

What are the main challenges a chief scientific officer faces in a biotech company?

A Chief Scientific Officer in biotech commonly faces the challenge of balancing innovative research with practical business goals. CSOs must lead diverse scientific teams, manage cross-functional projects, and ensure research aligns with regulatory requirements and market needs. They also play a key role in securing funding and communicating scientific strategy to both internal stakeholders and external partners. Navigating the fast-paced nature of biotech, while fostering a collaborative and adaptive research environment, is critical for success.

What is the difference between Chief Scientific Officer Biotech vs Research Director Biotech?

AspectChief Scientific Officer BiotechResearch Director Biotech
CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD), extensive industry experienceTypically PhD or Master's, with significant research background
Work EnvironmentExecutive leadership, strategic planning, cross-department collaborationResearch teams, project management, laboratory oversight
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech companies, startups, large pharmaResearch institutions, biotech firms, R&D divisions

The Chief Scientific Officer Biotech holds a senior executive role focused on strategic scientific direction and innovation, often overseeing multiple projects and teams. In contrast, the Research Director Biotech manages day-to-day research activities and leads scientific teams. While both roles require advanced scientific credentials, the CSO is more involved in high-level decision-making, whereas the Research Director focuses on project execution and research management.

What does a chief scientific officer do in a biotech company?

A Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) in a biotech company is responsible for overseeing the scientific research and development efforts of the organization. They set the scientific strategy, lead research teams, and ensure projects align with business goals and regulatory requirements. The CSO also evaluates new technologies, manages partnerships with academic and industry collaborators, and helps guide the company’s product pipeline from discovery to commercialization. Their leadership is crucial for driving innovation and maintaining the company’s competitive edge in the biotech sector.

How much do chief scientific officers make?

Chief Scientific Officers (CSOs) in biotech typically earn between $150,000 and $300,000 annually, with total compensation often including bonuses, stock options, and other incentives. Salaries vary based on company size, location, experience, and the complexity of the scientific research involved.
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Cities with the most Chief Scientific Officer Biotech job openings:

What states have the most Chief Scientific Officer Biotech jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chief Scientific Officer Biotech jobs include:

Infographic showing various Chief Scientific Officer Biotech job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,455 per year, or $56.9 per hour.

Chief Scientific Officer

Legend Biotech US

Somerset, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Legend Biotech is seeking a Chief Scientific Officer as part of the Research & Development team based in Somerset, NJ.

Role Overview

Legend Biotech is recruiting a visionary scientist, an accomplished drug hunter and a skilled organization/business leader as Chief Scientific Officer (CSO). The CSO will lead and oversee the global Research strategy and operations and is responsible for driving the scientific vision and overseeing research activities. The CSO is expected to deliver highly innovative and industrial-leading technology platforms and transformative therapies from initial concept to Development Candidate. Reporting to President of Research and Development, the CSO will be responsible for integrating all global technological innovation and drug discovery strategies and operations to bring cutting-edge therapies to patients.


Key responsibilities include developing and implementing the company's scientific strategy, managing the Research budget, mentoring scientific staff, and collaborating with stakeholders to bring innovative products and solutions to the market. The CSO will also play a critical role in evaluating new technologies, partnerships, and investment opportunities.

This role requires a deep understanding of scientific principles, strong leadership skills, and the ability to translate complex research into actionable business strategies. As the CSO, you will work closely with executive leadership, product development teams, and external partners to drive innovation and maintain our position at the forefront of cell therapy. You will be expected to stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies, foster a culture of impactful innovation and scientific excellence, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in scientific research, preferably with a Ph.D. in a relevant field, and a proven track record of leading successful Research programs and delivering multiple compounds into clinic development. You should be skilled at managing global multidisciplinary teams and representing the company in scientific and regulatory forums.
This is a high-impact role that offers the opportunity to shape the future of our organization through scientific leadership and innovation. If you are an innovative scientist and an accomplished drug hunter and are passionate about science with the strategic vision to lead cutting-edge research, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop disease centric global research strategy and deliver a robust, diversified and risk-balanced pipeline of therapeutics.
  • Develop and implement global technology and drug discovery plans that align with the company's business objectives, advancing the company's pipeline of cell therapies from technology innovation to Development Candidates.
  • Oversee global research programs through key milestones, including technological platform innovation and drug discovery, while efficiently managing resources to meet timelines.
  • Manage global research budget and ensure resource allocation aligned with strategic priority and efficient return of investment.
  • Drive the identification and evaluation of new technologies, research opportunities, partnerships, collaborations and licensing opportunities via BD to expand the company's pipeline and market position.
  • Attract, retain, and develop top talent within the global research organization, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence.
  • Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to overall corporate strategy and decision-making.
  • Stay abreast of industry trends, regulatory changes, and scientific advancements, ensuring compliance and maintaining the company's leadership position in cell therapy development.

Requirements

  • PhD or equivalent advanced degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., immunology, oncology, molecular biology).
  • Minimum of 15 years of experience in Research leadership roles within the biopharma and biotech industry, with a strong focus on cell therapy or immunotherapy.
  • World-class scientific accomplishments demonstrated by a strong record of cutting-edge research publications and patents.
  • Proven track record of successfully advancing multiple therapies from research through early clinical development.
  • Extensive experience managing large, global, cross-functional teams and growing top talents.
  • Deep understanding of the global development and regulatory landscape for cell and gene therapies.
  • Strategic thinker with strong business acumen and the ability to align Research activities with overall company goals.
  • Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with a demonstrated ability to inspire and lead high-performing teams.
  • Excellent communication, collaboration and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage a wide range of stakeholders.
  • Strong analytic and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex challenges and drive decision-making in a fast-paced environment.

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