Director of the Vascular Brain Health Institute (VBHI)

Overview

Awarded the "IHU" label in 2023 under the France 2030 investment plan, the Vascular Brain Health Institute (VBHI) is one of France’s 19 University Hospital Institutes. Its mission is to improve brain health by reducing the risk of stroke and dementia through a deeper understanding of cerebral small vessel disease. Established as a sheltered foundation under the Fondation Bordeaux Université, the VBHI is supported by its founders (University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux University Hospital, Inserm, Inria, and the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region) and its partners (AP-HP, CNRS, and IRD).

The VBHI brings together more than 100 experts in neurosciences, public health, and cardiovascular sciences. Backed by a €102 million ten-year investment, including €40 million from the France 2030 program, it will open a dedicated 3,500 m² university hospital facility by 2030, integrating state-of-the-art imaging, advanced laboratories, innovative clinical spaces, and an innovation incubator.

The VBHI aims to establish itself as an international hub of reference by deploying a unique, interdisciplinary strategy. It relies on pioneering programs such as artificial intelligence in neuroimaging, integrated multi-omics approaches, translational interdisciplinary projects, and the ongoing clinical cohort study BrainVasc, which aims to follow 10,000 participants with small vessel disease. Its integrated prevention clinic, Living Lab, and excellence training programs accelerate translation from discovery to patient benefit. Beyond scientific excellence, the VBHI is committed to reducing health inequalities, particularly in Africa and the Global South.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide global leadership for the VBHI and represents the Institute to its founders, funders, and academic and industry partners;
• Define and deliver the VBHI's scientific strategy to guarantee research excellence and clinical impact;
• Foster collaboration across research and clinical teams to integrate care, research, innovation, and training;
• Strengthen the VBHI's national and international profile by developing global academic collaborations;
• Ensure the Institute's long-term sustainability by driving the fundraising strategy and diversification of resources (industry partnerships, philanthropy, and calls for proposals).

Profile and Required Skills

• Leadership and scientific excellence (scientific skills in health sciences): embody the institute through international influence and deep expertise in the fields of vascular brain health, neurosciences, or related field (MD-PhD or PhD profile), while managing multi-founder organizations in a bilingual environment.
• Translational vision: develop close synergy between fundamental research and clinical application to bring innovation to the patient’s bedside and promote VBHI's international reach.
• Resource development strategy: ensure the long-term sustainability of the VBHI through a proven ability to raise funds and diversify resources (philanthropy, industrial partnerships, etc.).

Working Conditions

• Location: Bordeaux (France)
• Start Date: January 2027 to September 2027
• Term of Office: 4 years, renewable once
• Compensation and hosting arrangements: commensurate with experience / profile

Application Process

The selection committee encourages applications from high-level scientists and is fully committed to diversity and equal opportunity, regardless of gender or origin.

Candidates should submit their application package to before October 15, 2026.

The application must include:

• A curriculum vitae, including academic and professional appointments, leadership roles, relevant service to scientific bodies or learned societies, etc;
• A list of publications, awards, and major scientific achievements;
• A letter of intent and strategic vision for the future development of the VBHI.

Applications will be reviewed by an international selection committee. References may be contacted as part of the evaluation process.

Shortlisted candidates will subsequently be invited for an interview with the selection committee (November - December 2026).