Vice President, Research Strategy

Fueled by passion and urgency, the National Kidney Foundation is a lifeline for all people affected by kidney disease. As pioneers of scientific research and innovation, NKF focuses on the whole patient through the lens of kidney health. Relentless in our work, we enhance lives through action, education, and accelerating change.

About the role

The Vice President of Research Strategy is a leadership role responsible for shaping and executing the organization’s enterprise-wide research and insights strategy. This leader will ensure scientific rigor across all research activities, integrate data and analytics into decision-making, and translate evidence into actionable insights that drive programmatic impact, policy influence, and organizational growth. The VP of Research Strategy will report directly to the Chief Scientific Officer and will lead a diverse NKF internal research portfolio, including implementation science, outcomes research, qualitative and quantitative studies, market research, and program evaluation, while also advancing the organization’s extramural research grant program.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive, organization-wide research strategy aligned with NKF’s mission, strategic priorities, and revenue goals
• Oversee and integrate a diverse research portfolio, including:
  • Implementation science and health services research
  • Market research and stakeholder insights
  • Program evaluation and outcomes measurement
  • Signature initiatives (e.g., KidneyCARE Study, CKD Prognosis Consortium, CKD-EPI-CT, Transplants for All)
• Oversee NKF’s research grant portfolio and related funding programs, including strategic priority setting, application and peer review processes, award management, outcomes tracking, and dissemination of funded research findings
• Elevate NKF’s national profile as a leader in evidence generation, implementation science, and patient-centered research
• Ensure alignment of NKF-funded research initiatives with organizational strategic priorities, emerging scientific opportunities, and areas of unmet need in kidney health
• Lead the development of a Kidney Intelligence Hub, integrating data science, research operations, and analytics into a cohesive ecosystem
• Partner with internal teams to leverage data (clinical, programmatic, payer, and external datasets) to generate actionable insights on kidney care
• Establish frameworks for data governance, interoperability, and scalable analytics to support organizational decision-making
• Serve as a strategic partner across departments (Scientific Operations, Population Health, Marketing, Development, Policy, and Programs)
• Embed research and insights into program design, education, advocacy, and partnership strategies
• Support service departments in aligning insights and evaluation with fundraising and programmatic goals
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to raise funds and expand research opportunities, strengthening NKF’s role as a convener and catalyst for innovative kidney research
• Build and lead strategic partnerships with academic institutions, health systems, payers, industry, and government agencies
• Identify and secure funding opportunities (grants, contracts, sponsored research, major gifts) to support research initiatives
• Represent NKF as a trusted partner and leader in kidney-related research and data-driven innovation
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing research team, including the Senior Director, Data Analytics and the Senior Director, Patient Outcomes Research
• Oversee research operations, including study design, IRB processes, data management, and compliance
• Ensure adherence to the highest standards of scientific integrity, ethics, and regulatory requirements

Requirements

• PhD, DrPH, ScD, or equivalent advanced degree in public health, health services research, implementation science, outcomes research, or a related field
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in research, analytics, or insights roles, preferably within healthcare, nonprofit, academic, or policy environments
• Deep expertise in implementation science, health services research, outcomes research, or real-world evidence generation
• Demonstrated success leading complex, cross-functional research initiatives and translating insights into strategy and impact
• Experience building and managing external partnerships and securing research funding
• Experience overseeing research funding mechanisms, grant review processes, or scientific advisory committees preferred
• Strong track record of publications, thought leadership, and/or national recognition in relevant fields
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills

Schedule

• Hybrid role based at NKF Headquarters in New York, NY, requiring on-site presence two to three days per week
• Candidates must currently reside in the New York Metropolitan area or be willing to relocate (relocation package provided)
• Travel required 6-8 times per year

Benefits

• Flexible hybrid work environment
• Generous vacation time, sick leave, and holidays
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Life insurance and 403(b) retirement plan with company matching
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Commuter benefits program for transit and parking expenses
• Employee Assistance Program offering confidential counseling and support services
• Employee referral program with rewards
• Diverse and inclusive workplace culture