Application Guide

How to Apply for Manager, Contracts and Agreements

at Lupus Research Alliance

🏢 About Lupus Research Alliance

The Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) is the world's leading non-governmental, non-profit funder of lupus research, having invested over $220 million in more than 525 research studies. Its clinical affiliate, Lupus Therapeutics, drives a North American clinical trial network (LuCIN) and patient engagement initiatives, offering a mission-driven environment where your work directly impacts the lupus community.

About This Role

This role is pivotal in supporting Lupus Therapeutics by managing the entire contracting process and coordinating cross-functional projects. You'll ensure smooth operations between biopharma partners, vendors, study sites, and patient communities, directly facilitating clinical research that advances new treatments for lupus.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing and preparing contracts for clinical trial sites or vendors, tracking invoices and deadlines in project management software, and coordinating with team members to ensure contract obligations are met. You'll also support patient engagement initiatives by managing agreements with individuals living with lupus and liaising with partners to ensure smooth operations.

🎯 Who Lupus Research Alliance Is Looking For

  • Experience in contract administration, preferably in clinical research, biotech, or non-profit settings, with a strong understanding of contract lifecycle management.
  • Exceptional project management skills, including the ability to track multiple agreements, deadlines, and deliverables simultaneously.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills, ensuring accuracy in invoicing, compliance, and data tracking.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including patients, researchers, and industry partners.

📝 Tips for Applying to Lupus Research Alliance

1

Highlight any experience with clinical trial agreements, vendor contracts, or grants management, even if from a non-profit or academic setting.

2

Emphasize your ability to manage remote work and cross-functional collaboration, as the role is fully remote and requires coordination across teams.

3

Showcase your proficiency with contract management software, Excel, and project management tools like Asana or Trello.

4

Tailor your resume to demonstrate both project management and contract administration skills, as the role blends both functions.

5

In your cover letter, express genuine interest in the lupus community and the mission of the LRA, as this is a mission-driven organization.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for the LRA's mission and your understanding of the impact of lupus research on patients.", 'Your specific experience with contract administration in a clinical or research environment, citing examples of successful management.', 'Your ability to handle multiple projects and stakeholders, ensuring timely and compliant processes.', "Your alignment with the organization's values of collaboration, equity, and patient engagement."]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review the Lupus Research Alliance and Lupus Therapeutics websites to understand their current initiatives, clinical trials, and patient engagement programs.
  • Look into recent news or publications about the LRA's research investments and partnerships to speak to their impact.
  • Familiarize yourself with the lupus landscape, including challenges in clinical research and the importance of diversity in trials.
  • Understand the structure of non-profit organizations and how contract management differs in that context versus for-profit.
Visit Lupus Research Alliance's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience with drafting and reviewing contracts, and how you ensure compliance with regulations (e.g., HIPAA, FDA).
2 How do you prioritize and manage multiple contracts and projects with competing deadlines? Provide an example.
3 How would you guide colleagues on contract responsibilities and ensure they understand their obligations?
4 What strategies do you use to maintain effective communication and collaboration in a remote team?
5 How do you handle confidential or sensitive information, especially when dealing with patient data or proprietary partner information?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't overlook the project management aspect; emphasize your organizational and tracking skills in your resume and interviews.
  • Avoid generic cover letters; tailor your application to show you've researched the LRA and understand its mission.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of soft skills like communication and collaboration, as the role requires guiding colleagues and working with diverse stakeholders.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Lupus Research Alliance!