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, including: the Dean of the Faculty, Dean of the College, Dean of the Graduate School, Dean of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Dean of the School of Public Health, Sorensen Family Dean of Engineering, Dean of the School of Professional Studies, Vascellaro Family Dean of the Watson School of International and Public Affairs, Dean of the Division of Pre-College and Undergraduate Programs, Vice President for Research, the Joukowsky Family University Librarian, Associate Provost of Enrollment, and Chief Financial Officer.

The Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development will 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 involves 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 ideal candidate will be highly motivated, possess strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of research development and research funding landscapes, and the ability to translate complex data into clear and actionable recommendations. The Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development 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

• Design and execute comprehensive research methodologies to evaluate the effectiveness of seed funding programs and processes throughout the University.
• Assess the long-term impact of research development activities, particularly internal seed funding, on subsequent external funding success of academic research projects.
• Identify key success factors in research funding strategies.
• Provide data-driven insights and actionable recommendations to inform future funding strategies.
• Collaborate with the Office of Research Strategy and Development and other centers/institutes running independent seed grant programs.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree and five years of experience or PhD required.
• Extensive experience with quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
• Experience in research analysis, data analytics, program evaluation, or a related field, preferably within an academic or research institution.
• Excellent qualitative and quantitative research skills, including proficiency 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.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, and retirement.
• Time off and annual paid holidays.
• Wellness programs and employee discounts.
• Flexible work/life balance, including summer hours and winter break.

Schedule

• Full time (37.5 scheduled weekly hours).
• Hybrid work location.