Clinical and Translational Research Lead

About the Citrin Foundation

The Citrin Foundation is a research-oriented non-profit organization committed to identifying a cure for citrin deficiency—a monogenic metabolic disorder—and supporting affected individuals throughout their lives. The Foundation’s mission is to drive scientific progress and accelerate the development of effective therapies that improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

We are currently seeking aClinical and Translational Research Leadto join our team. This position offers an opportunity for an experienced clinical research professional to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of translational science within a dynamic and mission-driven organization. The ideal candidate will demonstrate both leadership capabilities and a willingness to be hands-on in the execution of research activities.

You will be able to find out more about us on our website here: https://citrinfoundation.org

Position Summary

The Clinical and Translational Research Lead will be responsible for the implementation and operational management of the Foundation’s clinical and translational research portfolio. This individual will play a central role in translating scientific discoveries into therapeutic applications, facilitating collaborations between academic researchers, clinical teams, industry partners, and the patient community.

Given the Foundation’s small team structure, the successful candidate must be comfortable balancing strategic oversight with direct execution of research-related activities. This role requires strong project management skills, a solid understanding of clinical research processes, and a commitment to advancing patient-centered solutions in the field of rare disease.

Key Responsibilities

Management of Clinical and Translational Research Initiatives

• Coordinate and oversee research projects funded by the Foundation, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and timely execution of project milestones.
• Evaluate and support new research opportunities with high translational potential.
• Monitor study progress, budgets, and deliverables in close collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Facilitation of Cross-Sector Collaboration

• Serve as the primary point of contact between academic investigators, clinical collaborators, industry stakeholders, and patient representatives.
• Foster effective communication and alignment across all parties to support successful project implementation.

Support of Translational Activities

• Work with research teams funded by the Foundation to support the translation of basic scientific findings into clinically applicable therapies.
• Assist in addressing logistical, operational, and regulatory challenges encountered during the translational process.

Protocol Development and Regulatory Compliance

• Contribute to the design and review of study protocols, informed consent documents, and related materials.
• Support the preparation of ethics and regulatory submissions in accordance with relevant standards and requirements.

Patient Recruitment and Engagement

• Collaborate with the Foundation’s patient engagement team to support recruitment strategies and ensure study designs are patient-centered and accessible.
• Provide guidance and communication to participants throughout the course of research studies.

Coordination of Natural History Studies

• Lead the planning and operational management of natural history studies, including oversight of data collection and coordination with research partners.
• Ensure that data generated informs future therapeutic development and clinical trial design.

Qualifications

Education

• Advanced degree (PhD, MD, MSc, or equivalent) in life sciences, medicine, or a related discipline.

Experience

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in clinical research or translational science, ideally within academic, hospital-based, or industry settings.
• Experience in early-phase studies, rare diseases, or investigator-led clinical trials is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects while remaining actively engaged in day-to-day operations.

Skills and Competencies

• Thorough knowledge of clinical study or trial design, research operations, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interface effectively with both scientific and non-scientific stakeholders.
• Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Deep commitment to the mission of improving outcomes for individuals with rare diseases.

Why Join Citrin Foundation?

• Impactful Work:Play a direct role in research that has the potential to transform the lives of individuals with citrin deficiency and beyond.
• Global Collaboration:Work with experts from around the world in a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and meaningful change.
• Growth Opportunities:Expand your career and develop professionally while contributing to the growth of a mission-driven organization.
• Patient-Centered Focus:Contribute to research that is centered around improving the lives of patients and their families, making areal-world impact.