Business Development, Life Sciences

IBRI is poised to transform life sciences—and for millions of people, even life itself.

IBRI is seeking a highly experienced, dynamic Senior Director, Business Development for a one-year, fixed-duration appointment focused on accelerating Indiana’s life sciences economy through business attraction and capital formation.

This role is funded through a strategic initiative in partnership with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and is designed as a high-impact, pilot effort to rapidly expand access to venture capital and recruit high-potential companies to Indiana.

Operating within IBRI but serving a broader network of statewide stakeholders, this individual will act as a connector between Indiana’s scientific innovation and national investment and growth opportunities.

One-year, fixed-duration position with the possibility of extension.

$175,000.

• Identify, target, and recruit high-growth life sciences and biotechnology companies to locate or expand in Indiana.
• Promote Indiana’s assets, including research institutions, talent, and infrastructure to prospective companies.
• Collaborate with economic development and partner organizations to align outreach and recruitment efforts.
• Deliver measurable pipeline activity within the 12-month engagement period.

• Leverage an established network of venture capital and industry investors, particularly in leading biotech markets.
• Rapidly connect Indiana-based companies with Seed and Series A funding opportunities.
• Advocate for Indiana startups and secure high-value investor introductions and meetings.
• Position Indiana companies to align with investor expectations and deal structures.

• Work across IBRI and partner organizations to maximize resources and impact.
• Serve as a shared business development resource supporting multiple stakeholders statewide.
• Strengthen relationships that increase Indiana’s national visibility in life sciences.

• Build and manage a robust pipeline of investment and company recruitment opportunities.
• Support the advancement and closing of financing transactions.
• Deliver tangible outcomes within the defined one-year timeframe.

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, business, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in business development, corporate development, or investment in life sciences/biotech.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated success closing Seed and/or Series A financings.
• Deep network with venture capital firms, particularly biotech-focused investors.
• Strong ability to translate scientific innovations into compelling investment opportunities.
• Experience with business attraction, economic development, or multi-stakeholder collaboration preferred.
• Advanced degree in life sciences (PhD or MS preferred) and/or MBA strongly preferred.
• Ability to travel as needed for success in role.

Competitive salary, including bonus potential, and comprehensive benefits offered commensurate with experience.

The IBRI provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and does not discriminate based on age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.