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Research Development Manager Jobs in Acton, MA (NOW HIRING)

Business Development Manager

Boston, MA · On-site

$105K - $150K/yr

Business Development Manager Remote - New England Quanterix is a global leader in ultra-sensitive ... Its proprietary Simoa ® technology delivers industry-leading sensitivity, allowing researchers to ...

Business Development Manager Remote - New England Quanterix is a global leader in ultra-sensitive ... Its proprietary Simoa ® technology delivers industry-leading sensitivity, allowing researchers to ...

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Research Development Manager information

See Acton, MA salary details

$53.4K

$112.1K

$181.7K

How much do research development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development manager in Acton, MA is $112,074.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,300.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research development manager?

A Research Development Manager is a professional responsible for supporting and enhancing research activities within an organization, typically in academic, scientific, or corporate settings. They help identify funding opportunities, facilitate collaborations, and provide strategic guidance to researchers during grant proposal development. Their role often includes managing research projects, ensuring compliance with regulations, and helping translate research ideas into successful funding applications. Research Development Managers play a critical role in advancing the organization's research agenda and maximizing funding success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research development manager?

To thrive as a Research Development Manager, you need strong project management, grant writing, and analytical skills, usually supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research administration software, funding databases, and compliance systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, collaboration, and strategic thinking abilities help you build partnerships and lead cross-functional teams effectively. These skills are crucial for securing research funding, ensuring compliance, and advancing organizational research goals.

What are some common challenges faced by research development managers, and how can they be addressed?

Research Development Managers often navigate challenges such as balancing multiple complex projects, securing funding, and coordinating across diverse teams. To address these, strong organizational skills and proactive communication are essential. Building robust relationships with researchers, administrators, and external partners helps streamline collaboration, while staying updated on funding opportunities can increase success rates for grant proposals. Regularly attending professional development workshops also helps managers stay current with best practices in research administration.

What is the difference between Research Development Manager vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch Development ManagerResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a master's or Ph.D. in a relevant field, along with project management experienceUsually holds a master's or Ph.D. in a specific scientific discipline
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, and coordinates research efforts within organizationsConducts experiments, analyzes data, and develops new scientific knowledge
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in R&D departments across industries like pharmaceuticals, tech, and manufacturingFound in laboratories, research institutes, and academic settings

The Research Development Manager focuses on overseeing research projects, managing teams, and aligning research goals with organizational strategies. In contrast, the Research Scientist primarily conducts experiments and generates scientific data. Both roles require advanced degrees, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

Is a research development manager a good job?

A research development manager oversees research projects and coordinates efforts to innovate and improve products or services. The role typically requires strong project management, communication skills, and knowledge of research methodologies, with employment prospects often stable in industries like technology, healthcare, and academia.

What cities near Acton, MA are hiring for Research Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Acton, MA with the most Research Development Manager job openings:

Clinical Research & Development Director

AstraZeneca

Waltham, MA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


AstraZeneca rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

What You Will Do
Externally recognized as a thought leader with deep expertise in both clinical research and development with deep understanding of autoimmune disease, specifically inflammatory myopathies, JIA and/or Sjogren's disease. Knowledge and expertise in cell therapy is a plus. Drive the integrated clinical research and development strategy and execution, to ensure value creation and regulatory/market success through innovative, cross-functional leadership. Operate independently and at scale, influencing both operational excellence and strategic direction at the highest organizational levels.
Typical Accountabilities
• Develop and align strategies and objectives for Clinical Research & Development, ensuring they support AstraZeneca's global goals and product vision.
• Lead and oversee execution and delivery of clinical research & development studies, ensuring scientific rigor, commercial viability, and patient-centric focus throughout the drug lifecycle.
• Lead the work with Line Managers to identify resource need and secure resources to ensure flexible and timely formation of the Clinical Research & Development Teams and progression of deliverables
• Provide strategic and operational input to ensure implementation of best practices, new technologies, processes, and global clinical strategies.
• Manage resource planning in collaboration with line managers, securing talent and flexible teams to support dynamic project requirements.
• Oversee budgeting, timelines, contingency and risk management planning, and escalate operational or strategic issues as appropriate.
• Lead the negotiation and management of contracts with CROs and external service providers.
• Drive the preparation, review, and delivery of regulatory submission materials and actively participates in regulatory defense/approval processes.
• Has personal responsibility for creating a culture of courageous leadership, creativity and collaboration
• Mentor, develop, and manage performance of line management and project teams, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and fostering succession planning.
• Ensure all work is compliant with internal and external standards, including Safety, Health, Environment, and regulatory guidelines.
Qualifications and Skills
  • Essential: Advanced degree (Master's, PhD, or equivalent) in a scientific, medical, or health-related discipline; Extensive experience in both clinical research and clinical development within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry; Familiarity with the scientific and clinical community; Proven leadership experience managing cross-functional and/or senior project teams; Demonstrated success in strategy development and execution in both clinical research and clinical development environments; Strong knowledge of the drug development process, GCP/ICH guidelines, and relevant regulatory requirements; Significant operational experience in the planning, delivery, and oversight of clinical trials and regulatory submissions; Budgetary, resource, and risk management expertise on a global or regional scale; Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and ability to present to diverse stakeholders; Demonstrated ability to mentor, develop, and lead teams; Highly skilled in stakeholder engagement, negotiation, strategic influencing, and cross-functional collaboration; Commitment to compliance and safety, health, and environmental standards; Ability and willingness to travel nationally and internationally as required

  • Desirable: Experience as a recognized expert or thought leader within the business and wider industry; Project management certification or formal training; Experience in the introduction or implementation of new technologies or innovative approaches within clinical research or development; Experience in change management and process improvement initiatives; Experience managing complex organizational structures or leading in a global organizational context; Extensive familiarity with key therapeutic areas relevant to AstraZeneca's portfolio; Record of effective succession planning and leadership development within multi-level teams; Experience in successful regulatory defense and participation in external advisory boards or similar expert panels; Advanced negotiation and contracting experience with CROs or external service providers; Ability to identify and leverage emerging trends in drug development, technology, and scientific innovation

Key Relationship to Reach Solutions
  • Internal: Study Delivery personnel; Data Management Centre representatives; Clinical Project Team and therapy area personnel; Clinical Development personnel; Clinical Pharmacology Units; Study Site personnel; Regional Monitoring personnel; Other Skill Centres as appropriate

  • External: External service providers; Investigators and scientists and patient advocacy groups; and external Alliance partners

Date Posted
25-Aug-2026
Closing Date
10-Sep-2026
Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.

What AstraZeneca employees say

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About AstraZeneca

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases. But we're more than one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. A place built on courage, curiosity and collaboration - we make bold decisions driven by patient outcomes. Empowered to lead at every level, free to ask questions and take smart risks that write the next chapter for our pipeline and Oncology team. Make a meaningful impact that brings real benefits to society. By applying your knowledge of data, you will help to redefine our industry and ultimately save lives. Work with experts who share a common goal: to accelerate the potential of medicines and the science of tomorrow.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers and pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, GB