Vice President Research And Development

We are an innovative deep-tech company developing a breakthrough advanced energy system designed to deliver reliable, scalable, and sustainable power solutions. The company operates at the intersection of cutting-edge science and complex engineering, with a mission to bring transformative technology from research to real-world deployment.

Role Overview

The VP R&D will lead the company’s scientific and engineering efforts, driving the development of a complex, multidisciplinary system from advanced prototypes through demonstration and commercialization readiness.

This role combines deep scientific understanding, system-level engineering, and hands-on leadership of multidisciplinary teams, including physics, power systems, mechanical engineering, and control systems.

The VP R&D will be a key member of the executive leadership team, working closely with the CEO and other senior leaders to align technical progress with strategic, operational, and funding objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Technology Leadership

• Define and execute the R&D roadmap toward key technical and system milestones
• Lead the design, development, and integration of core technology and supporting systems
• Oversee experimental programs, data analysis, and model validation
• Drive innovation in core scientific and engineering domains

Engineering & System Integration

• Manage multidisciplinary engineering teams (physics, power electronics, mechanical systems, diagnostics, software)
• Ensure system-level integration across all subsystems
• Lead the transition from prototype systems to scalable, manufacturable designs

Program Execution

• Deliver R&D milestones on time and within budget
• Establish rigorous development processes, KPIs, and technical reviews
• Manage external partners, subcontractors, and research collaborations

Team Leadership

• Build, lead, and scale a high-performing R&D organization
• Mentor senior scientists and engineering leaders
• Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and execution

Strategic Contribution

• Support fundraising efforts by presenting technical vision and progress to investors
• Contribute to partnerships with industrial and strategic partners
• Align R&D priorities with commercial use cases and market needs

Qualifications

Required

• PhD in Physics, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline
• 12–15+ years of experience in advanced R&D environments
• Proven leadership of multidisciplinary engineering teams
• Experience in complex system development
• Strong track record of delivering experimental or engineering milestones

Preferred

• Experience in high-energy systems, advanced materials, or similar deep-tech domains
• Background in scaling technologies from lab to prototype to early commercialization
• Experience working with external research institutions and industrial partners
• Familiarity with safety and regulatory considerations in large-scale systems

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking with strong execution capability
• Ability to operate in uncertainty and solve complex technical challenges
• Leadership and team-building at scale
• Strong communication skills (technical and non-technical audiences)