Senior Director, Research Programs

The Jackson Laboratory•New York, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Director of Research Programs is responsible for the project management team and for overseeing project monitoring, reporting, and delivery in alignment with research strategy goals and tactics. The role provides strategic guidance to senior leadership, project managers, and research team members by ensuring the coordinated planning, execution, and evaluation of the portfolio of research programs. Reporting to the Vice President and Scientific Director at the Jackson Laboratory (JAX-NYSCF), this individual provides high-level leadership for complex, cross-functional projects from initiation through completion. The individual is responsible for collaborating with diverse stakeholders, leading project teams, and ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and standards. This role will be working very closely with industry partners to advance translation models such as those announced in these press releases: JAX-NYSCF Collaborative and Janssen JAX-NYSCF Collaborative and GSK announce collaboration This role is full time onsite at our NYSCFJAX-NYSCF/JAX location in New York City

Requirements

5+ years in a leadership role with progressive responsibility
10+ years of relevant experience
Proven track record of managing large, complex research programs and cross-functional teams
Strong knowledge of research design and scientific methodology
High fluency in risk management, decision making and problem solving
Exceptional communication skills and stakeholder management experience
Experience managing budgets and reviewing financial reports

Nice To Haves

M.D/Ph.D in a relevant scientific field, neuroscience preferred
Project Management Certification/training (PMP preferred)
Experience with budget of $10M+
Ability to navigate matrixed environments and lead through influence

Responsibilities

Define and drive the strategic vision for the research programs portfolio aligned with organizational goals
Oversee the full lifecycle of multiple concurrent research programs, from ideation through execution and completion
Develop and manage program budgets, timelines, and resource allocation
Identify and mitigate program risks and resolve escalated issues
Ensure programs meet scientific, regulatory, and compliance standards
Drive cross-functional collaboration across departments (research administration, regulatory, finance, operations, etc.)
Oversee a portfolio of concurrent project initiatives, ensuring each has defined goals, project frameworks and measurable outcomes at both the project and program levels
Establish governance frameworks, resource plans, and risk mitigation strategies to keep projects on track
Implement KPIs and metrics to track program performance and outcomes
Serve as the integrating force across internal research teams to ensure alignment and cohesion across program goals
Lead program review and reporting to leadership
Manage vendor and partner relationships including academic institutions, government agencies, industry, etc.
Lead and mentor teams such as research directors, program managers, and scientists