Head of Clinical Research in London

Head of Clinical Research in London

London Full-Time 80000 - 120000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Connect Life Science

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead clinical research for innovative diagnostic devices and design impactful studies.
  • Company: Exciting diagnostics start-up with strong growth potential and a clear US market entry plan.
  • Benefits: Equity opportunities, visibility in publications, and a chance to shape the company's future.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team and enjoy hands-on involvement in a high-growth environment.
  • Why this job: Own the clinical strategy and make a real difference in healthcare innovation.
  • Qualifications: Director-level experience in clinical research with a strong diagnostics background.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.

Our client is a diagnostics start-up (founded ~2020) that’s now hitting a genuine inflection point:

  • Proven science + strong IP in biomarker-driven infection/inflammation detection
  • Existing commercial credibility (incl. prior partnership with major players)
  • Series B closing + bridge funding secured
  • Very clear plan to enter and scale in the US market

They’ve built the foundation. Now they need someone to own the clinical engine.

The product:

  • Handheld, point-of-care diagnostic device (think bedside use)
  • Rapid blood-based testing with quantified biomarker outputs
  • Designed to support real-time clinical decision-making

It’s already been through:

  • Pilot study
  • Academic collaboration
  • Early adult data

Next step = scale and validate properly.

What’s needed:

  • A Clinical Research & Medical Affairs leader who can:
  • Design and own new US-based clinical studies
  • Build protocols from scratch and challenge CROs / research partners
  • Structure studies to generate regulatory-grade outcomes
  • Lead the pathway toward 510(k) or Breakthrough designation
  • Engage directly with clinicians, investigators, and early adopters
  • Represent the company at conferences + in publications

The profile:

  • Clinical leader (~Director level)
  • Strong Diagnostics / IVD background
  • Someone who can think critically, not just execute
  • Comfortable wearing multiple hats in a 10-person, high-growth team
  • Able to bridge science, clinical, and commercial conversations

Culturally:

  • Hands-on
  • Curious
  • Willing to challenge thinking
  • Happy being in the room with leadership (Cambridge, London, Oxford triangle base preferred, with occasional on-site work)

Why it stands out:

  • Series B + active VC discussions
  • US market entry from the ground up
  • Real ownership of clinical strategy
  • Publications + visibility
  • Equity upside tied to a clear exit path

This is one of those roles where you’re not just advancing your career, you’re helping define and develop the company towards success. If that sounds exciting, reach out today.

Head of Clinical Research in London employer: Connect Life Science

As a pioneering diagnostics start-up, our client offers an exceptional opportunity for the Head of Clinical Research to lead innovative clinical studies in a dynamic and supportive environment. With a strong focus on employee growth, hands-on collaboration, and the chance to make a significant impact in the US market, this role promises not only career advancement but also the satisfaction of contributing to groundbreaking healthcare solutions. The culture is one of curiosity and challenge, where your expertise will be valued and rewarded, including potential equity upside tied to the company's success.
Connect Life Science

Contact Detail:

Connect Life Science Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Clinical Research in London

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the diagnostics field. Attend conferences, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to industry leaders on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or at networking events, make sure to highlight your experience in clinical research and diagnostics. Share your insights on biomarker-driven detection and how you can contribute to their mission.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company’s background. Understand their products, their market strategy, and their recent achievements. This will not only impress them but also help you tailor your responses to show how you can lead their clinical engine effectively.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team!

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Clinical Research in London

Clinical Research Design
Protocol Development
CRO Management
Regulatory Knowledge (510(k) and Breakthrough designation)
Engagement with Clinicians and Investigators
Publications and Conference Representation
Diagnostics / IVD Expertise
Critical Thinking
Adaptability in a High-Growth Environment
Cross-Functional Communication
Leadership in Clinical Strategy
Hands-on Approach
Curiosity and Willingness to Challenge
Team Collaboration

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Head of Clinical Research. Highlight your experience in designing clinical studies and working with diagnostics, as this will show us you’re the right fit for our exciting journey.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about clinical research and how your background aligns with our mission. We want to see your personality come through!

Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Quantify your successes where possible, like the number of studies you’ve led or any regulatory milestones you’ve achieved. This helps us see the impact you can bring.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Connect Life Science

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and technologies in diagnostics and clinical research. Brush up on biomarker-driven detection and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the company’s goals, especially regarding their handheld diagnostic device.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Prepare examples that highlight your ability to lead clinical studies and engage with various stakeholders. Think about times when you’ve successfully built protocols or challenged CROs, as this will demonstrate your capability to own the clinical engine.

✨Be Ready to Discuss Regulatory Pathways

Familiarise yourself with the 510(k) process and Breakthrough designation. Be prepared to talk about how you would structure studies to generate regulatory-grade outcomes, as this is crucial for the role.

✨Cultural Fit is Key

This start-up values hands-on, curious individuals who can bridge science and commercial conversations. Be yourself and show your willingness to challenge thinking and collaborate within a small team. Share your thoughts on how you can contribute to the company culture.

Head of Clinical Research in London
Connect Life Science
Location: London

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