Senior Project Manager – Medical Scientific Research Programs Philadelphia, PA (Hybrid – Local Candidates Only) Contract-to-Hire $65/hr W2 during contract ? converts up to $120,000 salary + benefits Overview A leading Philadelphia-based university research organization is seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead complex technology initiatives that support medical, clinical, and scientific research programs This role sits within the central PMO supporting research and data initiatives , where projects directly impact how researchers, clinicians, and administrators leverage technology to accelerate scientific discovery. This is not a traditional task-tracking PM role . The ideal candidate has experience serving as the primary or sole project manager on complex, high-risk, and high-visibility initiatives with executive sponsors . The individual must be comfortable facilitating strategic discussions with senior leadership , helping define project direction when requirements are ambiguous, and guiding stakeholders toward alignment and decisions. The environment is collaborative and mission-driven, supporting initiatives that advance medical research, scientific discovery, and research data platforms Key Responsibilities Serve as the primary project manager for complex initiatives supporting medical and scientific research programs. Lead projects that involve research systems, data platforms, integrations, and scientific computing environments Facilitate strategic discussions with executive sponsors, research leaders, and leadership to help define project scope, goals, and success criteria when the problem or solution may not yet be fully defined. Guide stakeholders through decision-making, prioritization, and alignment across multiple departments Develop and manage project plans, roadmaps, budgets, timelines, and risk mitigation strategies Lead cross-functional teams including engineers, research technology teams, data specialists, and business stakeholders Identify and manage project risks, dependencies, and operational impacts , particularly for high-visibility initiatives. Provide clear communication and executive-level reporting on project status, progress, and outcomes. Drive initiatives forward by removing roadblocks, clarifying direction, and maintaining stakeholder engagement Ensure projects align with university research goals, regulatory requirements, and technology strategy Required Qualifications 7+ years of Project Management experience , with at least several years serving as the primary project manager on complex initiatives Proven experience leading high-risk, high-visibility projects with executive sponsors Demonstrated ability to facilitate business discussions with senior leaders and guide strategic decision-making Experience working in environments where requirements evolve and project direction must be collaboratively defined Strong ability to drive initiatives forward beyond task coordination and status tracking Experience managing cross-functional teams and multiple stakeholders Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Preferred Experience Experience within higher education, medical research, healthcare, or scientific organizations Familiarity with research data platforms, research environments, or clinical/research systems Experience managing projects involving data platforms, analytics environments, research systems PMP or other project management certification preferred. Work Environment Hybrid role – candidates must be local to the Philadelphia area Collaboration with research leaders, university IT teams, and executive stakeholders Mission-driven environment supporting medical and scientific innovation Compensation Contract: $65/hr W2 Conversion: Up to $120,000 salary + full benefits
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