Senior Clinical Trial Manager

15About Character Biosciences

Character Biosciences is a precision medicine company pioneering targeted therapies for ophthalmology. Our patient data platform integrates genomics with deep, longitudinal clinical and imaging data, enabling us to uncover genetic drivers of disease progression, advance novel therapeutics, and define patient stratification strategies that improve clinical success.

Our interdisciplinary team spans human genetics, clinical science, data science and engineering, and drug discovery and development. We are advancing two programs for Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) into the clinic, with additional discovery-stage programs underway.

Founded in 2018, Character has raised capital from leading investors at the intersection of healthcare and technology, including an oversubscribed $110+ million Series B in 2025 co-led by aMoon and Luma Group, with participation from Bausch + Lomb, Innovation Endeavors, Sanofi Ventures, Catalio Capital Management, S32, KdT Ventures, and Jefferson Life Sciences. We also maintain a multi-target drug discovery collaboration with Bausch + Lomb to develop innovative precision medicines for AMD.

Role: Senior Clinical Trial Manager

Reports to: Senior Director, Clinical Operations

Department: Clinical Research

Team: Interventional Study

Location: Remote

The Opportunity:
Character Biosciences is seeking a Senior Clinical Trial Manager who will be responsible for leading all aspects of clinical trial management from study-start up through study closure. This role will be responsible for independently managing one or more Phase 1-2 studies, or complex components of larger trials, with cross functional interdependencies and vendor management. You'll thrive in our fast-paced startup environment where quick thinking, adaptability, and effective execution of early phase studies are essential to our success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Clinical Trial Operations
• Plan and manage day-to-day operations of assigned early-stage retina studies

• Develop operational plans with effective cross-functional communication

• Lead design and development of core study documents (protocols, ICFs, study plans, manuals, reports) and systems setup
• Create and maintain detailed study trackers; Track study metrics and proactively escalate issues impacting quality, timelines, or subject safety

• Collaborate with study teams to identify and select high-quality retina specialists and investigative sites

• Setup and execute effective investigator, site monitor and study team trainings

• Manage complex schedules of ophthalmology-specific assessments and coordinate proper execution; candidate should have a comprehensive understanding of retina specific assessments and imaging modalities, including the appropriate order of procedures and coordination of imaging workflows to support data integrity and minimize assessment variability

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Oversee CROs and key vendors (central imaging, central lab, data management, pharmacovigilance)

• Help support vendor selection, contract negotiation and performance management
• Manage vendor invoice reconciliation

• Develop study oversight plans and conduct ongoing risk assessment and mitigation

• Serve as primary operational contact for clinical sites and internal stakeholders

• Facilitate site engagement and communications to support study milestones

Study Operations & Compliance

• Oversee lab database and kit builds, sample management processes, and inventory tracking for retinal specimens

• Manage EDC build, CRF development, and data reconciliation throughout study lifecycle

• Oversee investigational product management including distribution and resupply

• Ensure clinical inspection readiness and compliance with quality standards

• Develop essential project documents including manuals, forms, and monitoring tools

• Participate in clinical operations infrastructure development and process improvement initiatives

Skills and Qualifications:

• Required:
• BA/BS degree with 5+ years pharmaceutical/biotech clinical trial management experience, with at least 2 years in Phase 2
• Specific experience in retina studies within ophthalmology therapeutic area
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage sites, and vendors independently

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3+ years of retina specific Clinical Trials operations
• Strong knowledge of ICH/GCP guidelines and regulatory requirements
• Expertise in trial planning, protocol development, and study database setup
• Demonstrated ability to manage sample collection, data reconciliation, and complex assessment schedules

Compensation & Benefits

The annual pay range for this full-time position is $153,000-$180,000 + equity + benefits
This salary range represents the expected base compensation for this role and may vary based on factors including experience, skills, and level.

Benefits include a competitive salary, strong equity incentives, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), an accrued paid time off policy. Character is committed to recruiting, developing, and supporting colleagues from all backgrounds. We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion as an integral part of our culture.

EEO Statement

Character Biosciences is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.