Senior Research Analyst, Prospect Development

The Senior Research Analyst, Prospect Development, serves as a strategic partner to fundraising teams, identifying and evaluating individuals, foundations, and corporations with the capacity and inclination to support Brown University. This role conducts in-depth research and sophisticated wealth analysis to advance institutional fundraising priorities. Key responsibilities include preparing high-level briefing materials for leadership and senior administrators; evaluating business affiliations and networks to inform prospect qualification and strategy; and delivering analytical insights that guide the cultivation of principal, major, and leadership-level donors. The Senior Research Analyst interprets complex wealth indicators—including equity holdings, executive compensation, and complex asset structures—and translates findings into clear, actionable recommendations.

The role also conducts highly sensitive due diligence research on prospective and current donors, assessing potential reputational, financial, and legal risks. Using advanced research methodologies and AI-enabled tools, the Senior Research Analyst ensures accuracy while upholding the highest standards of confidentiality and data governance.

Success in this role requires sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to synthesize complex financial, professional, and biographical information into concise, strategic insights. The ideal candidate brings exceptional attention to detail, strong written and verbal communication skills, intellectual curiosity, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, along with a demonstrated ability to prioritize a dynamic workload, respond to evolving needs, and exercise sound judgment in time-sensitive situations.

Responsibilities

Serves as a strategic partner to fundraising teams; Identifies and evaluates individuals, foundations, and corporations with capacity and inclination to support Brown University; Conducts in-depth research and sophisticated wealth analysis; Prepares high-level briefing materials for leadership and senior administrators; Evaluates business affiliations and networks to inform prospect qualification and strategy; Delivers analytical insights guiding cultivation of principal, major, and leadership-level donors; Interprets complex wealth indicators including equity holdings, executive compensation, and complex asset structures; Conducts highly sensitive due diligence research on prospective and current donors; Uses advanced research methodologies and AI-enabled tools; Ensures accuracy while upholding confidentiality and data governance

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience; Minimum of 4 years of experience in advanced research, development, fundraising, and/or market research experience; Demonstrated expertise in research and analytical methods; Advanced written communication and editing skills; Strong digital and technical proficiency, including advanced online search strategies, complex database use, and familiarity with iWave, LexisNexis, Candid, and Xapien; Ability to work independently with initiative and accountability; Proven ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities; Strong interpersonal skills; High degree of professionalism, ethical awareness, and discretion; Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment; Strong financial analysis and information retrieval skills; Successful criminal background check and education verification

Nice to have

Understanding of the prospect research competencies presented in the APRA Body of Knowledge; Experience in nonprofit, higher education, or research environments, particularly in fundraising or development