Project Manager, Preclinical Research (Ophthalmology)

Pharmaron • San Diego, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Pharmaron is seeking a Project Manager to support complex preclinical ophthalmology programs at its Carlsbad, California site. The role serves as a key liaison among clients, scientific teams, and operational leadership, combining scientific understanding, regulatory awareness, and client-facing communication to support successful ocular and related therapeutic studies. Pharmaron is also open to considering candidates at the Associate Project Manager level; the final title and level will depend on the selected candidate’s background, experience, qualifications, and project management capabilities.

The successful candidate will develop familiarity with Pharmaron’s ocular testing workflows and support preclinical programs focused on ophthalmology, potentially with exposure to CNS, oncology, or cell and gene therapy applications. The position supports studies from initiation through final reporting, including coordination of study design, timelines, deliverables, scope, and budget. It also involves preparing proposals and budgets with scientific leadership and Business Development, supporting client discussions, and maintaining clear, compliant project documentation.

Requirements

• Master’s degree preferred in Biology, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, Pharmacology, or a related life sciences discipline; a bachelor’s degree with strong relevant experience will be considered.
• At least 2 years of experience in a preclinical CRO, biotech, or pharmaceutical environment.
• Hands-on experience supporting in vivo animal research studies.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in ophthalmology, ocular research, neuroscience, or cell and gene therapy programs.
• Experience supporting study proposals, budgets, or client-facing scientific interactions.

Responsibilities

• Develop a strong understanding of ocular testing workflows, including preclinical safety, pharmacology, and biocompatibility assessments.
• Collaborate with scientific teams to align study design, timelines, and deliverables with client expectations.
• Support project execution from initiation through final reporting, ensuring adherence to scope, timeline, and budget.
• Draft study proposals, scopes of work, and budgets in collaboration with scientific leadership and Business Development teams.
• Ensure proposals align with departmental capabilities and regulatory standards.
• Support bid defense preparation and client-facing scientific discussions as needed.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned studies, provide regular updates, and respond to client inquiries.
• Facilitate communication between internal scientific teams and external sponsors.
• Maintain high-quality documentation to ensure project traceability, compliance, and transparency.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with significant employer contributions.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching.
• Paid time off, paid sick leave, and company holidays.
• Employer-funded Health Savings Account contributions for eligible plans.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• Employer-paid employee life insurance, AD&D, and short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program, mental health resources, and wellness programs.
• Family-friendly benefits, including fertility support and maternity resources.
• Professional development and career growth opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level