ASSISTANT PROJECT MANAGER
Location: Cardiff
Pharmaron is a global Contract Research Organisation (CRO) supporting pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies across the full drug discovery and development lifecycle. With over 25,000 employees worldwide across 23 sites in the UK, US, and China, we deliver fully integrated scientific services that help accelerate the development of new medicines.
We are looking for:
An Assistant Project Manager to support the delivery of customer projects within our Radiolabelled Sciences and Metabolism operations at the Cardiff site. This is an entry‑level / early‑career role, ideal for a science graduate looking to transition into project management.
You will work closely with Project Managers, scientists, finance, quality, and logistics teams to help ensure projects are prepared, tracked, and delivered efficiently. The role offers broad exposure to scientific operations, client communication, finance, logistics, and regulatory compliance, with structured training and development.
At Pharmaron we offer:
1. A vibrant, fast‑growing working environment within a highly specialised scientific organisation
2. Clear development opportunities, with training and progression into Project Manager roles
3. A collaborative, supportive team culture with an open and informal management style
Key roles and responsibilities:
Project & Operational Support
4. Support Project Managers with the coordination of small, high‑volume projects
5. Assist in preparing projects for transfer to the laboratory, ensuring all required information, materials, and documentation are in place
6. Participate in client communications (emails and teleconferences) to clarify project scope and resolve queries
Systems, Data & Finance
7. Maintain accurate project records within Focal Point
8. Assist with project set‑up, data handling, and documentation control
9. Support the preparation of draft invoices and assist with tracking revenue
Materials, Logistics & Shipping
10. Coordinate the receipt, logging, storage, and tracking of customer‑supplied materials, including radiolabelled materials
11. Support inventory control, surplus material management, and internal stock coordination
12. Assist with despatch activities, ensuring packaging, labelling, and documentation comply with transport and regulatory requirements
Compliance & Quality
13. Ensure project activities are carried out in compliance with site procedures, ISO standards, and internal quality systems
14. Handle sensitive client, scientific, and financial data with professionalism and confidentiality
Team Support
15. Provide cover for Project Managers when required
16. Work collaboratively across scientific, quality, finance, and logistics teams
Requirements:
17. Scientific background – degree level or equivalent experience (chemistry, life sciences, or related discipline)
18. High attention to detail with strong organisational and planning skills
19. Confidence handling data, documentation, and basic financial information
20. Strong communication skills and ability to liaise effectively with internal teams and clients
21. A proactive, flexible approach with willingness to learn and take on new responsibilities
22. Suitable for candidates with experience or interest in project coordination, operations, or scientific administration
This role suits individuals from backgrounds such as scientist transitioning out of the lab, junior project coordinator, executive assistant with scientific exposure, or graduate seeking structured training.
Why Should You Apply?
23. A clear entry point into project management within a scientific CRO
24. Broad exposure to real client projects and regulated scientific operations
25. Excellent foundation for long‑term careers in Project Management, Operations, or Scientific Leadership
26. Supportive environment with hands‑on learning and responsibility from day one