Vacancy: Project Manager

Location: Utrecht Science Park, The Netherlands (hybrid 50/50) 
Organisation: Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation 
Employment Type: Full-time 
Seniority Level: Medior

About Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation

The Netherlands is poised to lead the transition to animal-free biomedical innovation by establishing the Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation (Ombion). Ombion’s goal is to improve the biomedical translation processes while making them animal-free. This will accelerate the development of new medicines, medical devices and food ingredients that enhance human health, by replacing animal testing, which is often inaccurate and costly. This process is long, expensive, and high-risk, with animal testing traditionally used to predict efficacy and safety for humans. However, animal experiments often fail to provide accurate predictions, leading to substantial investments in clinical testing for products that ultimately do not succeed, while also causing animal suffering. Despite these shortcomings, the use of animal testing remains widespread due to several key factors: (i) animal testing is still regarded as the “gold standard”, (ii) many alternatives have not yet been validated and/or accepted, (iii) developing alternative methods requires large investments, with uncertain returns, and (iv) there is a lack of strong leadership to drive change in this polarized field. Ombion is a national centre, with a unique infrastructure at Utrecht Science Park – for developing and valorising animal-free innovations and expertise. Ombion operates through four key pillars: 

• Transition projects to prove that the transition to animal-free biomedical translation is effective and feasible, and to develop knowledge and methods; 
• Propositions to advise, train and assist stakeholders in making the transition and adopting animal-free methods; 
• Additional expertise development to strengthen the propositions; 
• Spin-out activities to create business opportunities that commercialize biomedical innovations and solutions for animal-free translation internationally. 

Ombion is a forward-thinking organisation committed to innovation, collaboration, and excellence. We foster a culture of inclusivity, continuous learning, and impact-driven work. Our team is composed of passionate professionals who strive to make a difference through strategic projects and partnerships.

About the role

Are you a dynamic and detail-oriented professional with a passion for project management and stakeholder collaboration? Ombion is seeking an experienced Project Manager to join our team and play a pivotal role in driving strategic initiatives, managing reporting processes, and coordinating with internal and external partners. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful projects in a fast-paced and innovative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and compile financial and content-based reporting, including RVO reporting requirements.
• Engage with project managers across decentralized teams to gather and consolidate project data.
• Support contract management processes with private partners, ensuring compliance and timely execution.
• Collaborate with location managers to organize and manage laboratory operations and logistics.
• Ensure timely and accurate documentation of project milestones, deliverables, and financials.
• Facilitate communication between stakeholders to align project goals and expectations.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of project management practices and tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Project Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in project management, preferably in a multi-stakeholder environment.
• Strong understanding of financial reporting and contract management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with diverse teams.
• Proficiency in project management tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

Desired Skills

• Analytical mindset with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Problem-solving skills and proactive approach to challenges.
• Team player with a collaborative spirit.
• Experience in organizing technical environments such as laboratories is a plus.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Flexible working arrangements and supportive team environment.
• Engagement in meaningful projects with societal impact.

Ready to make an impact?

If you are excited about this opportunity and believe your experience aligns with our mission, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your motivation and relevant experience to hr@ombion-cpbt.nl with the subject line “Project Manager Application – [Your Name]”.
We review applications on a rolling basis, so don’t wait, apply today and become part of a team that’s shaping the future through innovation and collaboration.