Senior Project Manager or Program Manager

The Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) is a nonprofit organization that accelerates biomedical research and fosters public-private partnerships to improve health outcomes. Established to support the mission of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), FNIH acts as a bridge between government entities, academic institutions, industry, and nonprofit organizations to advance innovative science and translational research. The organization plays a critical role in facilitating collaboration among diverse stakeholders to address complex scientific challenges, develop new biomarkers, and improve clinical research methodologies. FNIH is headquartered in North Bethesda, Maryland, and is known for its commitment to driving forward lifesaving research through strategic partnerships and thought leadership across many disease areas.

The FNIH Biomarkers Consortium is a flagship initiative within the organization that brings together experts from biopharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, government agencies, patient advocacy groups, and nonprofit organizations to develop and qualify biomarkers that facilitate drug development and precision medicine. A key part of this consortium is the Cancer Steering Committee (CSC), which focuses on addressing unmet needs in cancer research by fostering collaboration among its multidisciplinary members.

The Senior Project Manager or Program Manager, Translational Science, Cancer Portfolio, is a pivotal leadership role within the Biomarkers Consortium, specifically responsible for managing the CSC portfolio. This role demands a highly strategic and scientifically literate individual who can guide the committee’s overall scientific direction, manage complex projects, and nurture meaningful partnerships across sectors. Reporting to the Director for the Biomarkers Consortium and working closely with the Director for Cancer, the incumbent will provide overarching management and operational leadership for the CSC’s activities. This includes facilitating project ideation and prioritization, overseeing timelines and budgets, ensuring deliverables are met, and engaging key stakeholders spanning the biopharmaceutical industry, academic research, regulatory bodies, patient advocacy groups, and technology partners.

The position requires exceptional skills in stakeholder management, strategic thinking, and communication, combined with a deep knowledge of cancer biology. The manager will be expected to lead the CSC’s multi-stakeholder partnerships, represent the consortium in scientific and policy forums, and contribute to key publications and presentations to promote the consortium’s work and impact. Experience in supervising project managers and managing complex portfolios is critical, along with the ability to facilitate discussions that reconcile diverse viewpoints to reach consensus and shared goals.

As a non-research administrative management position, the role demands excellent interpersonal skills, diplomacy, strong organizational capabilities, and the ability to work effectively under tight deadlines. A scientific background in oncology, immunology, or a related biomedical field is highly preferred, as is expertise in cancer research environments. The successful candidate will be adaptable, possess sound judgment, and demonstrate leadership readiness to manage internal teams and external collaborations effectively. The position is hybrid, requiring regular on-site presence at the FNIH headquarters in Bethesda, MD, as well as occasional travel to scientific conferences and meetings. The salary range for this role is between $125,000 and $175,000 annually, reflecting the seniority and expertise required.