CTO/ Head of Engineering (robotic endoscopy)

<h1><strong>CTO/ Head of Engineering (robotic endoscopy)</strong></h1> <p><strong>Location:</strong> Paris or Strasbourg, France, with the ability to commute 2 days per week to one or both cities<br><strong>Commitment: </strong>Full-time<br><strong>Start Date: </strong>June 2026<br><strong>Package:</strong> Market-competitive salary for early-stage startups, plus performance bonus and milestone-based equity<br><br></p> <h2><strong>About the Company</strong></h2> <p>AIDO is an early-stage medical robotics venture on a mission to transform the fight against cancer through innovation in robotic endoscopy. Originating from the world-renowned <strong>IHU Strasbourg</strong>, the company is developing a novel robotic <strong>“third hand” add-on for</strong> flexible endoscopes. This compact and intuitive electromechanical assistant enhances the performance of therapeutic endoscopic procedures.</p> <p>AIDO’s proprietary technology improves <strong>ergonomics</strong>, <strong>stability</strong>, and <strong>instrument control</strong>, reducing the physical strain and coordination burden typically placed on endoscopists. By making complex therapeutic procedures <strong>easier</strong>, <strong>more reproducible</strong>, and <strong>more comfortable</strong> to perform, AIDO enables physicians to treat cancers and pre-cancerous lesions <strong>endoscopically rather than surgically</strong>, supporting earlier and non-invasive intervention for patients.</p> <p>Validated by more than <strong>60 clinicians</strong>, AIDO is now entering a pivotal phase, industrializing its prototype into a clinical-grade medical device, advancing regulatory pathways, and shaping future <strong>AI-enabled</strong> capabilities.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>The Role</strong></h2> <p>AIDO is seeking a <strong>hands-on CTO / Head of Engineering</strong> who can lead product development end-to-end, establish the engineering foundation of the company, and drive the technical roadmap as it enters a new phase of growth.</p> <p>This role combines strategic influence with deep technical execution. The successful candidate will work closely with suppliers, clinicians, and the CEO to bring a safe, intuitive, and robust device to market.</p> <h2><strong>Key Responsibilities</strong></h2> <ul> <li>Lead the <strong>design, development, and validation</strong> of the electromechanical endoscopy-assist device.<br><br></li> <li>Translate physician feedback into <strong>ergonomic, intuitive</strong> product improvements.<br><br></li> <li>Build and implement the <strong>QMS (ISO 13485)</strong> and guide EU/US regulatory strategy.<br><br></li> <li>Manage and challenge external suppliers while building internal engineering know-how.<br><br></li> <li>Drive the <strong>V&amp;V plan</strong> for CE (Class I initial version) and future 510(k) pathways.<br><br></li> <li>Strengthen the company’s <strong>IP position</strong> and contribute to the technology strategy.<br><br></li> <li>Support upcoming <strong>fundraising</strong> with technical expertise.<br><br></li> <li>Build and lead AIDO’s engineering team over time.<br><br></li> </ul> <h2><strong>Profile Requirements</strong></h2> <ul> <li>10 years of experience (approx.) in <strong>medical devices</strong>, <strong>robotics</strong>, or <strong>electromechanical systems</strong>.<br><br></li> <li>Track record of bringing hardware-based medical devices from prototype to clinical or commercial launch.<br><br></li> <li>Strong <strong>hands-on engineering ability</strong> (mechanical/electromechanical/AI).<br><br></li> <li>Solid understanding of <strong>ISO 13485</strong>, <strong>CE marking</strong>, <strong>V&amp;V</strong>, and ideally <strong>510(k)</strong> processes.<br><br></li> <li>Sensitivity to usability and clinical workflow constraints.<br><br></li> <li>Comfortable working in early-stage environments with high ownership and autonomy.<br><br></li> <li>Excellent communication with clinicians, engineers, and investors.<br><br></li> <li>Experience in endoscopy, surgical robotics, imaging, and/or AI is a strong plus.<br><br></li> </ul> <h3><strong>About NLC</strong></h3> <p>NLC Health Ventures is a leading healthtech and biotech innovation platform based in Amsterdam, combining venture building and fund management across Europe and North America. With 40-45 employees, NLC manages four captive funds investing in ventures from pre-seed to Series B-C, and is fundraising for a fifth fund. The funds have a diverse LP base and are invested in over 70 companies. NLC values a collaborative, open, and impact-driven culture, where team members’ ideas and contributions truly matter.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>