The Institut Pasteur is looking for a Scientific Director

17 Jan 2025

The Institut Pasteur is a global leader in scientific excellence, and drives its mission to tackle humanity’s most pressing health challenges. Founded in 1887 by Louis Pasteur, and led since January 2024 by Professor Yasmine Belkaid, the Institut Pasteur is home to over 3,000 members from more than 100 nationalities. From fundamental understanding of biological processes to pandemic preparedness, the Institut Pasteur is committed to protecting and improving human health on a global scale. As a private, non-profit foundation, the Institut Pasteur is dedicated to four core missions: research, public health, education, and innovation. As part of the international Pasteur Network, the Institut Pasteur fosters collaborations that enhance scientific excellence worldwide.

The Scientific Direction

The scientific direction, in close collaboration with the president and other key actors (including public affairs, support functions, education, medical affairs, etc.), ensures the functioning of all scientific operations and the promotion of scientific excellence.

Main Responsibilities of the Scientific Director

Together with the Executive Committee, the Scientific Director will:

  • Oversee and facilitate the Institut Pasteur’s research activities and scientific operations;
  • Support the President in the implementation of the scientific strategic plan;
  • Foster collaboration and interdisciplinarity across departments;
  • Manage relationships with the Scientific Council;
  • Contribute to the execution of major scientific programs;
  • Support the President and other key actors in the relationships of the Institut Pasteur with governmental institutions and other major global stakeholders/public health agencies;
  • Strengthen the integration of the Institut Pasteur in national, European and international programs.

The Scientific Director will coordinate an administrative team (technology, scientific career evaluation, incentive programs, etc.) and work closely with the Executive Committee to engage all departments in pursuit of scientific leadership.

She or he may eventually maintain an active laboratory, but should focus her/his time on this position.

Profile of the Candidate

The ideal candidate is a world-class life scientist or clinician scientist in biomedical research with an interdisciplinary view that spans from basic research to application. The candidate should have a proven ability to manage large-scale research projects, and foster multidisciplinary collaborations. Significant management experience in leadership roles or at the helm of research organizations (academic or private) is preferable.

Starting date would be ideally Spring 2025. Depending on the profile of the candidate, flexibility may apply.

Applications (CV + cover letter) should be sent to recrutement@pasteur.fr with the reference: 2024-14004 Directeur Scientifique H/F before January 17, 2025. Interviews will be conducted in February 2025.