Vice President Research And Development

About Loopworm

At Loopworm, we're on the cusp of a breakthrough in recombinant protein production. Our proprietary platform leverages insects as miniature bio-factories to produce complex recombinant proteins — a sustainable and cost-efficient alternative to conventional cell culture systems. Our mission: to redefine protein manufacturing for health, nutrition, and biotech industries globally.

We are looking for a seasoned industrial R&D professional to lead and scale our recombinant protein production R&D efforts, reporting directly to the Board and managing a 20-member team across five specialised verticals:

1. Molecular Biology & Genetics
2. Upstream Process Optimisation
3. Downstream Process Optimisation
4. QA/QC & Assays
5. Intellectual Property

Key Responsibilities

- Lead, mentor, and manage a cross-functional R&D team of scientists, setting clear KPIs and ensuring milestone achievement.
- Develop & execute R&D strategy, timelines, and budgets for recombinant protein projects.
- Ensure smooth collaboration between vertical teams to accelerate tech development.
- Drive process optimisation from gene to purified protein, ensuring scalability and quality.
- Partner with the IP team to protect innovations through global patent filings.
- Establish and refine R&D processes in line with international best practices.
- Oversee hiring within R&D to build high-performing teams.
- Present technical updates to leadership, partners, and stakeholders.

What We're Looking For

- PhD in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Bioprocess Engineering, or related field.
- Hands-on experience in project management within recombinant protein platforms — Insect Cells or Mammalian Cell systems.
- Core expertise in Molecular Biology/Genetics or Downstream Processing (must have deep technical skills in at least one).
- Strong understanding of all R&D verticals in the protein production pipeline.
- Proven track record in team leadership, strategic planning, and meeting R&D timelines.
- Hiring and team development experience within R&D.
- Experience with IP strategy and working alongside patent attorneys.
- Excellent communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills.

Preferred Tools & Software Proficiency (Experience in equivalent tools is equally valued)

- Molecular Biology & Bioinformatics – e.g., SnapGene, Vector NTI, Benchling, or similar platforms for construct design, cloning strategy, and sequence analysis.
- Data Analysis & Statistical Tools – e.g., GraphPad Prism, R, Python, or equivalent software for experimental data analysis and modelling.
- Process Development & Simulation – familiarity with SuperPro Designer, BioSolve, or similar tools for process optimisation and cost modelling.
- Quality Management & Documentation – e.g., LIMS platforms (Benchling LIMS, LabWare) or equivalent systems for lab data management and traceability.
- Protein Structure & Modelling – e.g., PyMOL, SwissSidechain, AlphaFold, or similar tools for protein structure analysis and visualisation.
- Project Management – e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com, or other workflow planning and milestone tracking tools.
- IP Management – familiarity with patent search and management databases such as Orbit, PatSnap, WIPO Patentscope, or similar.

Why Join Us?

- Be part of an India-first platform redefining how recombinant proteins are made.
- Lead a team at the forefront of biotech innovation.
- Shape the future of sustainable protein production with global impact.
- Work in a fast-paced, VC-backed startup environment where your ideas directly shape outcomes.

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