Program Manager – Translational Research

Job title:

Program Manager – Translational Research

Company

VIB

Job description

Make a Difference Where Science Meets Societal Impact
Are you ready for bold, translational science initiatives that tackle real-world challenges? At VIB, we’re looking for a dynamic Program Manager to drive our Grand Challenges Program, a high-impact initiative focused on translating scientific excellence into meaningful societal outcomes.
VIB is an entrepreneurial research institute, with a clear focus on ground-breaking research in life sciences and operates in close partnership with the universities in Flanders. With a mission to make a real difference, our Grand Challenges Program connects top researchers with societal needs to tackle high unmet challenges in health and sustainability.
Your Mission
As Program Manager, you and your team (two project managers and an administrative assistant) will shape the future of translational research at VIB by
leading and executing the Grand Challenges strategy in line with government priorities and VIB’s mission;overseeing project portfolios, budgets, compliance, data, and impact monitoring;engaging with internal and external partners to shape translational project proposals;ensuring alignment with VIB’s Innovation & Business and Communication departments;building strong relationships with translational stakeholders, including academic hospitals, universities and research organizations;developing VIB-wide supportive activities related to translational research (guidelines, workflows or trainings related to clinical trials, biobanking, etc);acting as a key ambassador for translational research within and beyond VIB;securing long-term funding to ensure program sustainability;supporting the Horizon Europe B-Trust and EU4Health projects.Who You Are
You are a strategic thinker with a strong scientific background and a genuine drive to make a difference in society. You hold a PhD in Life Sciences.
You have hands-on experience managing complex, multidisciplinary projects. With your excellent organizational and planning skills, you know how to turn ideas into impact.
Your ability to connect with diverse stakeholders and guide teams toward shared goals makes you a natural leader.
Experience in clinical research, trials, or healthcare innovation is a strong plus—especially if you’re familiar with regulatory frameworks and/or understand the nuances of scientific evaluation or impact assessment.
Working with key opinion leaders or advisory panels feels familiar to you, and you’re confident in leading conversations at a high level.
Fluency in both Dutch and English, written and spoken, is essential for this role.
What We Offer
a leadership role with societal impact and the opportunity to shape the future of translational research;a mission-driven environment that values collaboration and innovation;an open-ended contract and a full-time position;a competitive salary package with benefits aligned with your experience and qualifications;Our offices are located at VIB headquarters in Ghent. Flexible working hours and the possibility of working from home (2 days/week).Learning and development opportunities to support your professional growth and broaden your expertise.Ready to Drive Change?
If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit your application online, including CV and letter of motivation, through the VIB job portal.
For more information on the position contact [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] . Job interviews will start no earlier than mid-September.
We look forward to hearing from you!

Expected salary

Location

Gent, Oost-Vlaanderen

Job date

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 22:11:58 GMT

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