About the Organization:
Founded in 2023, SPARK NS is an independent non-profit translational research organization dedicated to efficiently advancing promising neuroscience discoveries from the lab to the clinic. SPARK NS offers disease-specific, 2-year translational research programs that provide funding, education, mentorship, and networking opportunities to academic principal investigators with promising therapeutic discoveries. The programs are designed to close gaps in knowledge and eliminate barriers that slow or prevent promising discoveries from directly benefiting patients. As an independent organization not affiliated with any academic institution, SPARK NS selects the most promising projects that emerge from the global neuroscience research community. As we expand our operations, we seek a highly skilled and motivated Project Manager to join our dynamic team.
About the Role:
We are looking for an experienced, curious, meticulous, and confident Project Manager to oversee and drive the successful execution of our groundbreaking supported projects. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in a biomedical research field (preferably in neuroscience) and a strong background in project management, research, and development in industry. As a Project Manager, you will play a critical role in orchestrating cross-functional teams at the intersection of basic research discovery and drug development, managing project timelines, budgets, and resources, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality results.
Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage at least three complex projects from initiation at an academic lab to successful completion (licensing to a pharmaceutical company, obtaining funding to become a biotechnology startup, or entering clinical trials), ensuring adherence to project scope, timelines, and budgetary constraints.
- Coordinate between researchers, SPARK NS staff and advisors, CROs, and other stakeholders to ensure effective project execution.
- Partner with the investigator, SPARK NS staff, and advisors to develop comprehensive project plans and a corresponding budget to achieve translational goals.
- Meet at least monthly with project investigators to coordinate progress and address needs for additional resources in capacity or mentorship.
- Establish and maintain strong, positive working relationships between investigators and advisors, fostering effective communication and collaboration.
- Monitor progress and continuously implement feedback from advisors to ensure successful translation of projects.
- Communicate effectively and regularly with other project managers, SPARK NS staff, and management.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
- Keep abreast of the scientific literature related to the assigned projects.
- Assist with operational and administrative initiatives to achieve the translational and educational goals of the organization.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in biomedical research (preferably in neurosciences) including 4+ years of post-PhD experience in project management, in industry.
- Proven track record of successfully managing complex projects as evidenced by publications, patents, or documented pipeline contributions.
- Strong knowledge of project management methodologies, tools, and techniques.
- Excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate and mobilize academic teams and industry advisors.
- Exceptional communication (both written and verbal) and interpersonal skills to foster effective collaboration between investigators, SPARK NS, and third party providers.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as scientific curiosity.
Travel:
From time to time, travel domestically and internationally is required. Required travel includes site visits and educational workshops, but may also include scientific conferences.
