Health Science Awards Program Manager na Knowesis

The Health Science Awards Program Manager (PM) will lead and oversee a team of approximately 25 scientists and research support personnel supporting the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP). This position is responsible for managing complex biomedical research portfolios across multiple disease areas, ensuring scientific rigor, compliance with Department of Defense (DoD) regulations, and alignment with CDMRP’s mission to transform healthcare through innovative and impactful research.

The PM will serve as the primary point of contact with government stakeholders, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and guidance to scientific and administrative teams. This role requires exceptional organizational, leadership, and communication skills, along with a deep understanding of biomedical research processes and federal acquisition requirements.

To be eligible for this position, candidates must possess U.S. Citizenship without the need for sponsorship, both now and in the future. Applicants without proof of U.S. Citizenship will not be considered due to the position’s security clearance requirements.

The Job Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: 

Program Leadership & Strategic Oversight

• Provide strategic direction and day-to-day management of scientific and administrative operations supporting CDMRP research programs.
• Lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, program analysts, and administrative staff to ensure timely and effective execution of program goals.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the contractor team and CDMRP leadership, ensuring open communication and alignment with mission objectives.
• Guide the prioritization and allocation of resources across multiple research portfolios.
• Ensure adherence to DoD, DHA, and CDMRP policies, regulations, and reporting standards.

Scientific Portfolio Management

• Oversee the review, award, and post-award management of biomedical research grants.
• Support programmatic strategy development, funding recommendations, and scientific review processes.
• Provide leadership in identifying emerging research trends and recommending areas of investment.
• Collaborate with scientific subject matter experts (SMEs) to ensure research is high-quality, relevant, and impactful.

Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure strict compliance with federal regulations, including those related to human subjects research (HSR), animal use, and data privacy (PHI/PII).
• Implement risk management strategies to identify, assess, and mitigate programmatic and operational risks.
• Maintain audit readiness and support internal/external reviews.

Program and Financial Management

• Manage budgets, schedules, and deliverables to ensure contract performance and accountability.
• Develop and track integrated master schedules, performance metrics, and quality assurance measures.
• Lead preparation of required program reports, technical summaries, and briefings for government leadership.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication

• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with government program officers, external researchers, and stakeholders.
• Represent the program at scientific meetings, conferences, and stakeholder engagements.
• Develop and deliver high-quality briefings and communications to diverse audiences.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or higher in biomedical sciences, public health, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience managing complex biomedical research programs, including at least 5 years in a leadership role overseeing scientific teams.
• Demonstrated expertise in research portfolio management, program evaluation, and strategic planning.
• Proven track record of managing multidisciplinary teams in a federal or DoD research environment.
• Strong knowledge of compliance frameworks related to human subjects research, animal research, and data security.
• Experience with program management methodologies (e.g., PMBOK, Agile).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts for diverse audiences.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD in biomedical sciences, public health, or a related field
• PMP Certification or equivalent project management credential.
• Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes and CDMRP program structures.
• Experience with Congressionally directed research initiatives.
• Background in clinical trials, translational research, or scientific peer review processes.

Knowesis is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals based on merit and qualifications. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and other applicable federal laws. Our company values all applicants and employees and fosters a work environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.