Research Proposal Development Associate I/II

Actalent; Remote; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading clinical research organization is seeking a Research Proposal Development Associate I/II in Chapel Hill, NC. This role involves developing proposals for clinical studies across multiple therapeutic areas while collaborating with various teams. Candidates should have a relevant degree and experience in a CRO/ARO environment. The position provides flexible, remote work arrangements, competitive pay, and numerous benefits, fostering professional growth and a supportive team environment.

Benefits

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) Retirement Plan

Employee Assistance Program

Time Off/Leave

Qualifications

• Experience with proposal generation and sponsor negotiation is a plus.
• Willingness to travel approximately 10%.
• Critical thinking, resourcefulness, and time management skills are valued.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing proposals and revisions for various studies.
• Formulate proposals under the direction of a Senior RPA.
• Review materials to develop proposal responses.

Skills

1-3+ years of experience in a CRO/ARO environment

Excellent oral and written communication skills

Strong interpersonal, analytical, problem-solving skills

Knowledge of clinical trials processes

Familiarity with NIH grant procedures

Education

4-year degree

Job description

Job Title: Research Proposal Development Associate I/II

Join a mission‑driven team dedicated to advancing groundbreaking clinical research. As a Research Proposal Development Associate II, you will contribute to the development and facilitation of proposals for clinical studies across various therapeutic areas. This role offers an exciting opportunity to engage in high‑impact projects and work within a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing proposals and revisions for investigator‑initiated, industry‑sponsored, government‑sponsored studies, and more.
• Formulate proposals under the direction of a Senior RPA, collaborating with company functional groups and other organizations.
• Develop budgets and price estimates using standard models and write proposal text with corresponding assumptions.
• Review materials provided to develop proposal responses and challenge internal teams to operationalize budgets efficiently.
• Work with Principal Investigators to submit grant applications and renewals, coordinating with project personnel and functional groups.
• Collect and coordinate necessary grant materials, including biographical sketches, letters of support, and consortium statements.
• Communicate with the Office of Research Administration to ensure complete and accurate grant submissions.
• Develop changes in scope and document these changes with clear text and budget grids.
• Participate in Executive Project Review meetings to discuss the financial status of projects and potential scope changes.

Essential Skills

• 1‑3+ years of experience in a CRO/ARO environment.
• 1‑2+ years of experience with proposal generation, review, or sponsor negotiation.
• A 4‑year degree.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal, analytical, problem‑solving, and negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of clinical trials processes.
• Familiarity with NIH grant procedures.
• Willingness to travel (approximately 10%).
• Excellent organizational, planning, and prioritization skills.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Willingness to attend training courses and trade shows.
• Experience in grants administration, budgeting for clinical trials, and budgeting for federal grants is beneficial.
• Critical thinking, resourcefulness, and time and project management skills are highly valued.

Work Environment

This position offers a 100% remote work environment with opportunities for hybrid work arrangements. You will be part of a supportive team that values transparency, inclusion, and shared success. Engage in meaningful work within the world's largest academic clinical research organization, benefiting from professional growth opportunities and a flexible work‑life balance.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Chapel Hill, NC.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $45.00 – $56.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre‑tax and Roth post‑tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long‑term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type: This is a fully remote position.

Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Feb 20, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [e-mail] for other accommodation options.