About the Role

The Business Development Manager plays a central role in turning high-potential scientific opportunities into executable, fundable Demonstrator Projects. Operating at the interface of science, partnerships, and funding, the BD Manager is responsible for scouting, evaluating, and closing high-value innovation projects end-to-end — from first contact through signed Development & Partnership Agreement (DPA).

In this role, you will identify potential partners in pharma and biotech through desk research, reach out to potential partners for demonstrator projects, set up meetings with potential partners for the broader Business Development team, maintain a good administration of our systems, and represent and promote the Oncode Accelerator program through attending conferences, networking national and international meetings and events. The BD Manager will also actively contribute to positioning Oncode Accelerator as a key player in the oncology innovation landscape by building strategic alliances with academic, clinical, and industrial partners.

**Responsibilities

Opportunity Scouting and Pipeline Development**

• Proactively identify high-potential opportunities across countries, modalities, and networks aligned with Oncode priorities
• Conduct first engagement meetings with potential partners, setting clear expectations on funding, IP principles, and Oncode Accelerator's working model
• Build and maintain a healthy, well-qualified pipeline ensuring a steady flow of relevant opportunities
• Represent Oncode Accelerator at national and international conferences, scientific meetings, and industry events
• Keep all contacts, leads, and early discussions accurately captured in our systems

Evaluation and Strategic Fit

• Lead early project evaluations assessing scientific fit, platform relevance, feasibility, and financial plausibility
• Work with scientific leadership to stress-test opportunities — without replacing their decision-making
• Guide applicants through Oncode's workstream and platform capabilities (Patient Cohorts, Organoids, AI-driven approaches)
• Say no early and clearly when opportunities don't fit — it protects everyone's time

Project Ownership and Execution

• Be the single point of contact for assigned projects, from first contact through signed DPA
• Drive timely completion of intake forms and light due diligence in collaboration with internal functions
• Keep internal stakeholders (scientific, program, legal, finance) and external partners aligned and moving
• Spot blockers early and escalate before they become problems

Alliance and Partner Development

• Nurture trusted relationships with academic, clinical, industrial, and funding partners in line with Oncode strategy
• Identify opportunities for repeat collaborations and follow-on projects and flag them to the Director of BD
• Support alliance meetings and events that strengthen Oncode Accelerator's positioning
• Reporting and Team Collaboration
• Keep project records in Salesforce and Monday.com accurate and up to date
• Report progress, risks, and decisions in BD team meetings openly and on time
• Share learnings and contribute to improving how the team works
• Jump in to support colleagues and shared scouting efforts when needed

Qualifications and Requirements

PhD in a Immunology, Life science with experience in a research-based role in Academia/Biotech/ Pharma.

Strong scientific background with deep knowledge of pharmaceutical, life sciences, biotechnology industry.

Extensive knowledge and understanding of preclinical development

Excellent relationship-building and networking skills with internal and external parties.

The ability to anticipate potential pitfalls and proactively solve problems.

Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

Confident and structured communicator, able to engage credibly with scientific, business, and funding audiences

Organised and disciplined in pipeline management.

Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with competing priorities. Able to say 'no' diplomatically but clearly when opportunities do not fit

Proactive self-starter with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment

Willingness to travel internationally for conferences and partner meetings

Fluency in English required; Dutch is a plus

About You

You are passionate about our purpose and genuinely care about our mission to transform the lives of patients through innovative cancer treatment

You bring rigor and excellence to all that you do. You are a fierce believer in our rooted-in-science approach to problem-solving

You are a generous collaborator who can work in teams with diverse backgrounds

You are determined to do and be your best and take pride in enabling the best work of others on the team

You are not afraid to grapple with the unknown and be innovative

You have experience working in a fast-growing, dynamic company (or a strong desire to)

You work hard and are not afraid to have a little fun while you do so

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV() and a motivation letter (rename to: ML_ to hr@oncodeaccelerator.nl by April 30th 2026. We look forward to receiving your application.