Program Manager

The world is evolving at a fast pace. Geopolitical tensions, hybrid threats and growing uncertainty increasingly affect our societies and daily lives. Against this backdrop, the Flemish Government launched the Flemish Defence Plan in April 2025 * , bringing together security, resilience and economic development. Knowledge institutions, including VIB, are actively involved, with the aim of deploying Flemish scientific and technological expertise more strategically and strengthening preparedness for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

VIB is an entrepreneurial strategic research institute in life sciences that focuses on fundamental science aa well as translating scientific results into pharmaceutical, agricultural, industrial and societal applications. VIB is funded by the Flemish government and works in close partnership with the Flemish universities – Ghent University, KU Leuven, University of Antwerp and Vrije Universiteit Brussel. The link between basic research and valorisation has made VIB a catalyst for the ever-growing biotech ecosystem in Flanders.

To further strengthen and expand the Flemish ecosystem and network with respect to defence-related Biotech applications, and in close collaboration with the Flemish government and the BIOVIA cluster organisation, VIB is recruiting a Program Manager for a 2 year fixed term appointment.

⃰  More info on the program can be found here (in Dutch): Vlaamse Innovatie- en Industriestrategie voor Veiligheid en Defensie | Vlaanderen.be

We are looking for a dynamic professional to lead the translation of strategic orientation roadmaps into actionable operational plans and to build a robust triple helix ecosystem connecting industry, academia, and government. This role focuses on advancing cutting-edge technologies in biotechnology, MedTech, and biomanufacturing with (potential) applications in the defence sector.

This is a two-year fixed assignment, ideal for professionals who want to make an impact in a dynamic, multi-stakeholder environment. Whether you are an experienced program manager or a motivated junior with strong organizational and networking skills, this role offers a unique opportunity to grow and work at the intersection of science, technology, security, and innovation.

What you will do:

• Ecosystem Management: Drive collaboration across industry, research institutes and government. Together with BIOVIA, Build communities and organize roundtables & strategic events.
• Stakeholder Management: Maintain strong relationships with OEMs and system integrators. Actively engage with federal and European institutions (EDA, DG DEFIS/EDF, NATO DIANA) and coordinate organize bilateral consultations to strengthen partnerships.
• Project Generation: Monitor funding opportunities (DEFRA, Horizon Europe, EDF, etc.). Lead the formation of consortia, guide proposal submissions and capture lessons learned.
• Infrastructure & Facilities: Map & asses testing capabilities in Flanders. Conduct gap analyses to identify missing infrastructure and propose solutions to strengthen the ecosystem.
• Program Planning & Reporting: Develop annual action plans. Track KPIs, prepare progress and ensure timely evaluations to keep the program on course.

Who you are:

·       Master’s or PhD degree in the life sciences, life sciences related engineering, or related field or with equivalent experience

·       Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to engage stakeholders effectively

·       Interest in ecosystem building, innovation strategy, and project coordination

·       Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams; proactive and deadline-oriented

·       Fluency in Dutch and English (spoken and written); knowledge of French is an asset

·       Familiarity with European defence programs and other funding mechanisms is a plus

·       Prior experience at the interface of industry, government, and academia is an advantage

• A professional and stimulating work environment at the cutting edge of translational science
• A two-year role at the forefront of life sciences related defence innovation.
• Opportunity to gain experience in ecosystem development and program management.
• Flexible work arrangements
• Dynamic, multi-stakeholder environment with international exposure.
• Various opportunities to broaden your expertise and develop your career
• A compensation package based on expertise and experience

Motivated candidates should apply online .

A complete application file (English) should contain the following documents:

·       your cover/motivation letter

·       your CV

·       2 references

HIRING MANAGER

Sofie Coelus, Business Development Manager (sofie.coelus@vib.be )

Erwin Sablon, Head of Business Development (erwin.sablon@vib.be ; +32 473 687812)