Director of Research

About the role

The Rice Synthetic Biology Institute (RSBI) seeks to catalyze collaborative research in synthetic biology and accelerate the translation of discoveries into technologies that benefit society. The Institute strengthens the synthetic biology community at Rice by coordinating activities across schools and fostering partnerships with regional industry, government, academic, and global leaders in the field.

Responsibilities

• Identifies large-scale, collaborative funding opportunities and develops strategies to expand the Institute’s research portfolio
• Builds research teams by connecting faculty with external academic institutions and industry partners to pursue complex grants
• Led the writing and technical development of grant proposals, ensuring compelling scientific narratives and high-quality submissions
• Manages funded projects and Institute initiatives, including oversight of budgets, milestones, and reporting requirements
• Develops and implements strategic plans to ensure the Institute achieves its mission and long-term research goals

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering, Biosciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related biological research field
• 4+ years of experience in research, research grant writing, or research project management

Qualifications

• Strong track record of contributing to the discipline of synthetic biology
• Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate institutional priorities into actionable research and funding strategies
• Adept at problem-solving, creating contingency plans, and handling issues when necessary
• Excellent client service orientation
• Ability to lead and motivate others
• Strategic skills to craft and implement project plans
• Excellent attention to detail

Skills

• Design and validation of engineered biological systems
• Strong track record of collaborative research across disciplines
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate institutional priorities into actionable research and funding strategies
• Exceptional relationship-building skills with faculty, external academic partners, sponsors, donors, and institutional leadership
• Adept at problem-solving, creating contingency plans, and handling issues when necessary
• Excellent client service orientation
• Ability to lead and motivate others
• Strategic skills to craft and implement project plans
• Excellent attention to detail

Benefits

Rice University HR | Benefits: Rice University HR | Benefits

Pay

Hiring Range: $95,900 - $120,000 Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Schedule

This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Per Rice policy 440 , work arrangements may be subject to change.