Duties: The Gene Therapy Program (GTP) is entering a new era of unprecedented opportunity with the great potential to reshape the face of medicine as we know it. Our discoveries have set the stage for successful treatments and possibly even cures for devastating genetic diseases.

The laboratory of Dr. Jim Wilson, at GTP of the University of Pennsylvania, has been a leader in the development of innovative vector technology for close to three decades. We have emerged as the 'go-to' organization for public and private partners, who want to participate in the gene therapy space. Currently, we are positioned to lead another round of vector innovation and establish pre-clinical and clinical proof-of-concept in therapeutic applications of in-vivo genome editing.

We are looking for a Operations Program Manager (OPM), to drive operational efficiency of discovery research teams.

As an OPM, you will oversee and tend to the operational needs of the discovery research labs. You will partner with discovery and GTP leadership to determine laboratory needs for resources and equipment. Partner closely with finance to build and maintain discovery team budgets. You will aid with successfully on-boarding new staff members, working with their managers to develop strong training and development plans. You will serve as the project chair for discovery research projects, leading cross-functional teams in a matrix environment with limited direction. You will guide project team activities to meet GTP's objectives and drive team accountability for deliverables, ensuring projects meet defined milestones. You will coordinate and facilitate Launch Team Meetings where you will document outcomes, actions, and risks. You will be the liaison to our external sponsor project leaders, delivering transparent, timely and concise verbal and written communication during regular status updates and technical reports. Proactively identify and escalate risks and issues to relevant stakeholders; lead development and delivery of tactical and achievable mitigation and contingency planning. Provide support and guidance through patent application process for new technology developments.

Qualifications: Master's Degree (Life Sciences or Molecular Biology desired) and 5 to 7 years of applicable experience, preferably in scientific project management, or an equivalent combination of education and experience required. PhD is highly preferred.
PM certification is desired.
Experience in basic research projects that have resulted patent applications preferred
Ability to interact professionally with key internal investigators, as well as external academic, for-profit, and non-profit organizations.
Ability to work with all levels within the organization from senior management to technicians.
Ability to work independently and to perform well under pressure and embrace dynamic environment. Strong organizational and time management skills. Excellent oral & written communication skills with exceptional attention to detail.
Strong computer/technology skills including MS Excel, PowerPoint, and MS Project (or other similar Project Management tools).

Reference Number: 40-30491

Salary Grade: 029

Employment Type: Exempt

Org: DM-Gene Therapy Program

Special Requirements: Background check required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

Job Family: I-Technical/Professional Research