Program Manager, Scientific Engagement, Rare Disease Translational Center

We are seeking a highly motivated Program Manager of Scientific Engagement with a strong background in genetics, translational medicine and project management to join our team at the JAX Rare Disease Translational Center (RDTC). This position plays a crucial role in coordinating and overseeing the implementation of diverse research programs, strategizing long-term objectives, and ensuring the efficient execution of various projects within the organization. They are responsible for managing risks, communicating effectively with internal and external stakeholders, and facilitating collaborations to achieve research goals. The incumbent will oversee project planning, evaluation, and data distribution across various research initiatives.

The JAX RDTC supports the overall mission of The Jackson Laboratory: To discover precise genomic solution for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health. The JAX RDTC leverages JAX’s unique research environment and resources to translate biological discovery into clinical action. We work directly with foundations/external collaborators and their associated teams of basic science and clinical researchers to understand the molecular underpinnings of disease symptoms, identify pathways that can be targeted therapeutically, and assess the safety and efficacy of candidate drugs and therapies in biologically accurate mouse models of disease. This position is an exciting opportunity to work directly with the RDTC in supporting this mission. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the primary liaison for collaborators, advisors, and stakeholders, organizing meetings and facilitating effective communication.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline critical activities and troubleshoot technical issues.
• Identify opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and data quality, piloting and implementing new methodologies as needed.
• Develop and implement data quality control measures in collaboration with Bioinformatics Analysts and Principle Investigators.
• Liaise with IT teams to optimize database functionality and address system related issues.
• Identify opportunities to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and implement improvements in methodologies.
• Develop and execute strategies to engage scientific communities, fostering collaborations, and partnerships with external researchers, institutions, and industry stakeholders.
• Coordinate scientific symposia, workshops, and conferences to facilitate knowledge exchange and enhance scientific engagement.
• Serve as a liaison between research teams, providing scientific support, guidance, and facilitating communication between various internal departments or research initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate scientific findings into accessible content for diverse audiences, including presentations, reports, and educational materials.
• Represent the organization externally in scientific forums, advocating for the program’s objectives and advancements, fostering relationships to enhance visibility and credibility within the scientific community.

Minimum Requirements

• Minimum of five years in a science or technology leadership role.
• Advanced degree (MS desired) or Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 5 years’ experience leading large-scale projects.
• At least 3 years of experience in a leadership role managing teams.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present ideas clearly and concisely.
• Strong analytical abilities to devise executable plans and integrate best practices.
• Adaptability in a dynamic environment, with exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Diplomatic leadership qualities to motivate cross-functional teams and foster cooperation.
• Prior experience in project management with a proven track record of successful program execution.
• Commitment to mentoring and developing staff to foster scientific talent.
• Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in a relevant scientific field, providing a strong foundation in biological sciences or related disciplines, coupled with extensive experience in research.
• Demonstrated experience (5+ years) in a role focused on scientific engagement, collaboration, or outreach within a research or academic setting.
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex scientific information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.
• Strong network within the scientific community, with a track record of fostering collaborations, partnerships, and relationships beneficial to scientific programs and initiatives.

Pay Range: $90,384 - $144,614, pay rate is determined by experience.

About JAX:

The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California), Japan and China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.

Founded in 1929, JAX applies over nine decades of expertise in genetics to increase understanding of human disease, advancing treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging and heart disease. It models and interprets genomic complexity, integrates basic research with clinical application, educates current and future scientists, and provides critical data, tools and services to the global biomedical community. For more information, please visit www.jax.org​​​​​​​.

EEO Statement:

The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.