Clinical Trial Manager

About Character Biosciences Character Biosciences is a precision medicine company pioneering targeted therapies for polygenic diseases, with an initial focus on 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, comprising experts in clinical science, data science, statistical genetics, computer vision, and drug discovery, utilizes this platform to determine genetic drivers of disease progression, advance novel therapeutics and define genetics-based patient stratification. Powered by our data platform, Character Bio is currently advancing two programs in Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) with additional programs for other disease areas (e.g. Glaucoma) in earlier stages of discovery research. 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, Sanofi Ventures, Innovation Endeavors, 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. The Opportunity Character Biosciences is seeking a Clinical Trial Manager/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. Core 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, reports) and systems setup Collaborate with study teams to identify and select high-quality retina specialists and investigative sites Track study metrics and proactively resolve issues impacting quality, timelines, or subject safety Ensure setup of effective investigator, site monitor and study team training Manage complex schedules of ophthalmology-specific assessments and coordinate proper execution Vendor & Stakeholder Management Oversee CROs and key vendors (imaging, central lab, data management, pharmacovigilance) Manage vendor selection, contract negotiation, performance management, and 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 About You You are a precision-driven clinical operations professional who thrives in dynamic environments. You excel at creative problem-solving, anticipating challenges, and managing competing priorities while maintaining unwavering attention to detail. You're energized by building in a startup setting, with the humility to listen, conviction to make decisions, and stamina to drive initiatives forward. You value integrity, accountability, team collaboration, and continuous learning. Compensation & Benefits

The annual pay range for this full-time position is $140,000-$180,000 + equity + benefits.

Benefits include a competitive salary, strong equity incentives, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and 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.