Part-time scientific leadership
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Quick Definition
Fractional CSOs provide scientific and R&D leadership on a part-time basis. Typical engagements are 2-4 days per month with day rates from 1200-1800 GBP.
UK fractional CSO demand comes from biotech and pharma companies. Organizations seek scientific expertise for development and regulatory strategy.
| Area | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Qualification | PhD or MD in relevant field |
| Experience | 15+ years scientific leadership |
| Track Record | Drug development, regulatory |
| Network | KOL relationships valued |
Fractional vs Full-Time Executive
Your Potential Savings
£180k+
How fractional executives spend their time
The fractional CSO (Scientific) leads R&D strategy, scientific governance, and research programmes on a part-time basis.
Scientific strategy and research direction
R&D programme portfolio management
Scientific advisory board leadership
Regulatory and clinical affairs oversight
IP strategy and patent portfolio management
Academic and research partnerships
Scientific publications and conferences
Compare day rates across C-suite roles
Choose the right engagement model
| Aspect | Fractional | Interim | Full-Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time Commitment | 1-3 days/week | 4-5 days/week | 5 days/week |
| Duration | Ongoing/flexible | 3-12 months | Permanent |
| Annual Cost | £50-150k | £150-300k | £200-400k+ |
| Best For | SMEs, startups, scale-ups | Crisis, transitions | Large enterprises |
| Flexibility | ★★★ High | ★★☆ Medium | ★☆☆ Low |
Costs are indicative UK market rates. Actual costs vary by role, experience, and sector.
Based on 2.5 days/week x 2 clients x 48 working weeks. CFO UK average day rate: £1000.
BetaThis calculator provides rough estimates for illustration only. Actual rates and salaries vary based on location, experience, industry, and market conditions.
Complementary leadership for your organisation
Everything you need to know
A fractional CSO provides scientific leadership including R&D strategy and regulatory planning.
Industry data on the rise of fractional leadership
of executives who moved to fractional work report higher job satisfaction
Source: Harvard Business Review ↗Founder's background
Based on 2026 market data for UK Exec roles.
