Octant is a well-backed team of experienced scientists and entrepreneurs at the frontiers of biology, chemistry, and computation. We are a small molecule therapeutics company combining high-throughput synthetic biology, generative chemistry, and AI/ML to repeatedly develop precision medicines for genetically defined diseases.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Octant is seeking an experienced project manager to help build a new function – Early Clinical Development – and will play a pivotal role in advancing our small molecule drug pipeline. This position is crucial for supporting our clinical research and development activities across our rare disease small-molecule corrector pipeline. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in drug development, experience working independently to plan and manage execution of complex projects, experience driving cross-functional teams, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, innovative environment. Projects will span the different therapeutic areas from early discovery to clinical development.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Planning & Execution

Develop and manage comprehensive project plans, timelines, and budgets.
Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Collaborate with scientific teams to define project goals, milestones, and deliverables.
Prepare and present project status to senior management and stakeholders.

Stakeholder Management

Guide teams through the creation, approval, and execution of integrated project plans appropriate to the project's phase of development and complexity.
Integrate strategic and tactical input from diverse disciplines (e.g., clinical, regulatory, legal, manufacturing, CMC) as applicable to the project.
Serve as the primary point of contact for project stakeholders, providing regular updates , ensuring clear communication, and proactively sorting out misalignment.
Facilitate collaboration and information flow between internal teams and external partners.

Project Management

Build, monitor, and maintain project schedules, budgets, and critical project information to integrate activities across key team members.
Proactively identify risks and ensure clear and effective communication with key team members, management, and cross-departmental stakeholders.
Prepare for, facilitate, and document outcomes of core and program team meetings as well as corporate governance, ensuring meetings have a clear purpose and objectives.

Regulatory & Compliance

Manage the preparation and submission of regulatory documents and reports with strong preference for IND filing of oral small molecules.

Contract Management

Oversee the management of contracts with external partners, vendors, and service providers.
Negotiate terms and conditions to align with project goals and company objectives.
Ensure contractual obligations are met and maintain accurate records of contract-related activities.

THIS JOB MIGHT BE GREAT FOR YOU IF YOU HAVE:

Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacology) or a related field is required; an advanced degree (Ph.D., M.S.) is preferred. Equivalent leadership experience and on-the-job training can substitute for formal degree programs.
Experience: Minimum of 5 years of related related experience managing projects within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on drug discovery and development.
Technical Competency: Strong technical background in preclinical and clinical development processes and regulatory submissions (rare disease experience is a plus).
Project Management Skills: Proven track record of successfully managing complex projects from inception to completion. Experience working with cross-functional teams, particularly in a matrix environment, where direct communication and influencing without authority is essential.
Flexibility & Adaptability: Flexibility to rapidly changing priorities and project needs, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Comfortable with ambiguity and able to pivot strategies as needed to meet project goals.
Leadership & Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to manage relationships with internal stakeholders, CROs, and external collaborators effectively. Proven leadership in guiding multidisciplinary teams through complex project phases.
Communication Skills: Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Ability to present complex scientific and project-related information to diverse audiences, including senior management and external partners.
Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a proactive approach to anticipating potential issues and addressing them before they become critical.
Vendor & Contract Management: Experience managing external vendors, CROs, or partnerships, including contract negotiation and performance monitoring, ensuring alignment with project goals and company objectives.
Passion & Ethical Standards: A strong commitment to addressing unmet medical needs through innovative therapies, with an adherence to ethical research practices. A detail-oriented mindset ensures precision and accuracy in all project aspects.

The expected annual salary for this role is in the range of $135,000 to $185,000, depending on experience level. We offer health benefits (medical, dental, vision), equity, and 401(k) matching.

Octant is located in Emeryville, California and we work onsite.

Octant is an equal opportunity company that values applicants of all backgrounds. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. We value less traditional backgrounds, and may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. We know that confidence-gap and imposter syndrome can get in the way of meeting spectacular candidates, so please don’t hesitate to apply — we’d love to hear from you.

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