Project Manager, Preclinical Research (Ophthalmology)

Pharmaron • San Diego, CA

2d • $70,000 - $100,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Project Manager will support complex preclinical ophthalmology programs and serve as a key liaison between clients, scientific teams, and operational leadership. The role combines scientific understanding, regulatory awareness, and client-facing communication to support successful execution of ocular and related therapeutic studies. Programs focus on ophthalmology, with potential exposure to CNS, oncology, or cell and gene therapy applications. 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.

The position is based on-site in Carlsbad, California, with a stated salary range of $70,000 to $100,000. The Project Manager works with scientific and Business Development teams to support study planning and delivery, prepare proposals and budgets, and maintain communication and documentation for assigned studies.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

• Develop a strong understanding of Pharmaron's 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 detailed 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, providing regular updates and responding to client inquiries.
• Facilitate effective communication between internal scientific teams and external sponsors.
• Maintain high-quality documentation ensuring project traceability, compliance, and transparency.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with significant employer contributions.
• 401(k) retirement plan with generous employer matching.
• Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and company holidays.
• Employer-funded Health Savings Account contributions for eligible plans, plus healthcare and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts.
• 100% 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