Associate Project Manager, Preclinical Research

Position: Associate Project Manager, Preclinical Research

Salary Range: $65k - $80k

Location: Carlsbad, CA (On-site)

Pharmaron is seeking a highly motivated Associate Project Manager to support our Preclinical Research team in Carlsbad, CA.

This role will serve as a key scientific and operational liaison supporting preclinical research programs focused on ophthalmology, ocular therapeutics, CNS, oncology, and advanced therapeutic modalities including cell and gene therapy (CGT).

The successful candidate will partner closely with sponsors, scientists, veterinarians, and operational teams to coordinate study execution, manage client communications, develop proposals and budgets, and support complex preclinical research programs from initiation through completion.

• Serve as a primary point of contact for sponsors supporting preclinical ophthalmology and in vivo research programs
• Coordinate study timelines, deliverables, budgets, scopes of work, amendments, and project documentation
• Maintain proactive communication with clients regarding study progress, milestones, and operational updates
• Support internal project management operations including preparation of scopes of work, change orders, and study amendments
• Develop and manage project plans while ensuring alignment with study objectives and operational capabilities

• Partner cross-functionally with scientific, operational, and business teams to support successful study execution
• Develop a strong understanding of Pharmaron's preclinical in vivo workflows, technical capabilities, and service offerings
• Enhance familiarity with departmental procedures, equipment, and standard operating procedures
• Support proposal development including study design coordination, budget preparation, and project planning activities
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders to ensure seamless project execution and client satisfaction

• Ensure projects align with regulatory standards, study requirements, and internal operational processes
• Support projects involving ophthalmology, CNS, oncology, and advanced therapeutic modalities including CGT programs
• Identify project risks proactively and support mitigation strategies to maintain timelines and deliverables
• Maintain accurate project documentation and internal tracking systems
• Ensure high-quality communication and documentation throughout the project lifecycle

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Animal Science, Ophthalmology, or related scientific discipline
• Prior experience in project coordination or project management within a CRO, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or preclinical research environment preferred
• Experience supporting ophthalmology, in vivo, translational research, or CGT programs is highly desirable
• Strong understanding of preclinical research workflows and regulatory expectations
• Ability to independently prepare proposals, budgets, scopes of work, and project documentation
• Excellent communication, organizational, and client management skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities within a fast-paced scientific environment
• Motivation to learn and adapt to evolving industry trends and technologies

• Insurance including Medical, Dental & Vision with significant employer contributions
• Employer-funded Health Reimbursement Account
• Healthcare & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• 100% Employer-paid Employee Life and AD&D Insurance, Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 401k plan with generous employer match
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program

As an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative Action employer, Pharmaron values diversity and inclusion in the workplace, fostering an environment where all individuals are empowered to succeed. Join us in our mission to make a difference in the world of life sciences.