Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development

About the Opportunity: The Office of the Provost works in close collaboration with the University’s academic leadership, and with the senior officers reporting to the provost. Reporting to the Office of the Provost, the role of the Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development is to assess the long-term impact of research development activities, with a particular emphasis on internal seed funding on the subsequent external funding success of academic research projects. This role will involve designing and executing comprehensive research methodologies to evaluate the effectiveness of seed funding programs and processes throughout the University, identifying key success factors, and providing data-driven insights to inform future funding strategies. The Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development (RD Scientist) serves in a strategic role as part of the Office of the Provost and will collaborate with the Office of Research Strategy and Development (responsible for the university’s central seed grant program) and other centers and institutes that run independent seed grant programs. This is a one-year, fixed term position with potential for extension based on budget and University need.

Responsibilities

Assess the long-term impact of research development activities, with a particular emphasis on internal seed funding on the subsequent external funding success of academic research projects; Design and execute comprehensive research methodologies to evaluate the effectiveness of seed funding programs and processes throughout the University; Identify key success factors and provide data-driven insights to inform future funding strategies; Collaborate with the Office of Research Strategy and Development and other centers and institutes that run independent seed grant programs; Serve in a strategic role as part of the Office of the Provost

Requirements

Master's degree and five years of experience or PhD required; Extensive experience with quantitative and qualitative data analysis required; Excellent qualitative and quantitative research skills including skills in associated tools for data organization and analysis; Knowledge of program evaluation best practices; Aptitude for analyzing RFPs and interacting with university faculty; Knowledge of federal and private research funding organizations and eligibility requirements; Excellent written and verbal communication skills; Ability to work independently, coordinating and prioritizing multiple projects; Strong customer service skills; skilled in the use of tact and diplomacy; Experience in handling confidential and/or sensitive information; Advanced knowledge of and experience in creating databases and excel spreadsheets

Nice to have

Experience in research analysis, data analytics, program evaluation, or a related field, preferably within an academic or research institution; Highly motivated; Solid understanding of research development and research funding landscapes; Ability to translate complex data into clear and actionable recommendations

Benefits

Flexible work/life balance; summer hours; winter break; comprehensive benefits package including time off and annual paid holidays; health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts