General Summary of Position:
The Director of Research Development (D-RD) will develop strategic plans for research growth, catalyze and facilitate cross-disciplinary research initiatives within the university and with external partners, and enable large, complex research initiatives, including large grant applications in response to funding opportunities. The D-RD will lead a growing staff dedicated to developing strong grant proposal development, fostering research teaming and collaborations within and beyond the university, promoting faculty and student success, collaboration, and inclusion, and catalyzing research growth. The D-RD will collaborate closely with other units across campus including the Office for Research Administration, the Office of Research Integrity, the Office of the Provost, University Advancement, and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation. The D-RD is expected to have strong skills in communication and customer service, data analytics for predicting areas of opportunity and growth, and facilitation of collaborations, partnerships, and investments.
About Lowell and UMass Lowell:
Located just 25 miles north of Boston, Lowell is a vibrant, diverse city with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. The city boasts numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a bustling downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cafes. UMass Lowell is a rapidly growing research university with a strong research portfolio in areas such as biotechnology, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, social justice, and community health. UML’s diverse student body tops 18,000 and more than 40% of our undergrads are first-generation college students. UMass Lowell is an AANAPISI, is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and has a strong track record of supporting staff development and promoting a welcoming and inclusive campus community.
If you are an experienced research development professional with a passion for driving growth and innovation in a dynamic research environment, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to help shape the future of research at UMass Lowell.
Minimum Qualifications (Required):
- Master's Degree in STEM related field
- 8+ years of experience in research administration, grant writing, and/or research development, including experience in a university or other research-intensive organization
- Excellent organizational and project management skills
- Proven track record of secure funding for research initiatives
- Strong communication skills, including the ability to write clearly and persuasively
- Extensive knowledge of research funding agencies and the grant proposal process
- Experience in cultivating relationships and catalyzing collaborations
- Strategic thinker who can identify emerging trends, develop strategies to capitalize on them, and position the university for long-term research funding success
- Experience facilitating meetings, leading teams, and collaborating with stakeholders across an organization
- Proven track record of building and maintaining relationships with faculty, researchers, and external partners
- Strong skills in data analytics, budget development, and project management
- Knowledge of research compliance regulations
Additional Considerations:
- Excellent negotiation, analytical and interpersonal skills; ability to work under pressure with constantly changing priorities and deadlines
- Ability to work independently and effectively with a variety of constituencies
- Excellent professional written and verbal skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Ph.D., preferably in a STEM-related field
- 5+ years of experience successfully managing a research development and/or grant writing team
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Initial review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. However, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applications is received.
This is a non-unit position, Grade P23. Some flexibility in remote/hybrid work may be possible.
Initial review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. However, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applications is received.
Please include a resume, cover letter and writing sample with your application. Names and contact information of three references will be required at the time of application.
