Research Program Director - 137365

The Research Program Director provides leadership and oversight for both the clinical trial regulatory portfolio and laboratory operations of an expanding translational research program at UC San Diego. Supports investigator-initiated and sponsor-funded studies focused on clinical microbiome, oncology, and precision medicine research. Works closely with faculty investigators, regulatory offices, and laboratory staff to ensure compliance, efficiency, and scientific excellence across all stages of research.

Manages all aspects of clinical trial operations from start-up through closeout, including protocol development, site initiation, recruitment, data management, regulatory compliance, and sponsor requirements. Serves as the primary liaison for investigators, clinical fellows, sponsors, regulatory agencies, and internal and community partners. Provides strategic oversight, supervision, and direction to clinical research staff while ensuring data quality, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Oversees budgeting, fiscal management, staffing, and resource allocation for disease team clinical trials. Contributes to scientific analysis, protocol and grant development, and the execution of Phase I-III clinical trials, while driving innovation, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration in complex, multidisciplinary research environments. Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervises staff responsible for working with departments, staff, patients and families in using clinical research techniques. May assume full responsibility for the research in delegated studies. Receives assignments in the form of objectives with goals and the processes by which to attain them. Supervises daily operations, and performance requirements. Has full oversight for staffing, performance management, and programmatic workflow of project.

• Nine (9) years of related experience, education/training, OR an Bachelor's degree in related area plus five (5) years of related experience/training.

• Broad knowledge of clinical or laboratory research and clinical research philosophy. Demonstrated ability to translate clinical research philosophy into business best practices in a trial setting.

• Demonstrated project management skills. Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities, prioritize projects and meet the demands of a fast-paced and dynamic work environment. Adaptable to quickly changing priorities.

• Demonstrated experience managing people with a wide range of educational backgrounds and skills. Demonstrated management and conflict resolution skills to effectively lead and motivate others. Demonstrated experience in training others in the field of research.

• Demonstrates good problem-solving and analytical skills. Creatively addresses complex or new problems.

• Strong communicator; includes verbal and written, active listening, critical thinking, persuasiveness, advising and counseling skills. Clear and concise communicator. Ability to influence and negotiate.

• Excellent interpersonal skills, including but not limited to: problem-solving, teamwork development, leadership, mentorship. Interpersonal skills to effectively motivate others. Works well with others to achieve common goals. Ability to cultivate relationships with multiple stakeholders at various levels of administration.

• Ability to perform all commonly applicable functions in word processing and spreadsheet software. Effectively uses campus' clinical information and documentation application programs. Proven ability utilizing clinical trial management systems.

• Skills to work collaboratively with other cross-functional teams. Ability to interface and collaborate with other members of an extended study team. Ability to influence / persuade. Proven ability to effectively coordinate and integrate programs with others in division, department, and organization.

• Strong understanding of federal and state regulations governing clinical research and biospecimen use.

• Demonstrated experience in laboratory operations, biospecimen handling, and data management systems (e.g., REDCap, LIMS).

• Advanced degree preferred.

• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in clinical research operations, including regulatory management of IRB submissions, MTAs, and DUAs preferred.

• Strong understanding of UCSD regulations governing clinical research and biospecimen use.

• Clinical Trial Professional certification from a professional society within one year in position.
• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Employment is subject to pre-employment physical for those who work in clinical settings and/or with patients.