supporting a robust, high-impact research enterprise.
The position reports directly to the Vice President for Research and collaborates closely with faculty, institutional committees, and external regulatory agencies. The Director oversees a team of staff and the research compliance and safety programs and services at New Mexico Tech, including research ethics and integrity, responsible conduct of research, hazardous materials, radiation safety, export control, and human and animal research protections. The Director may also administer conflict of interest and conflict of commitment processes; receives, assesses, and manages allegations of research misconduct; and leads education, training, and outreach efforts designed to strengthen institutional understanding of research compliance expectations.
This position advises senior leadership on regulatory changes, compliance risks, policy implications, and risk mitigation strategies. The position also leads cross-functional initiatives involving institutional leaders, external partners, and regulatory bodies to support effective compliance program management and the continued advancement of the university’s research mission.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Regulatory & Technical Expertise. Deep working knowledge of federal regulations governing academic research environments related to areas such as chemical and radiation safety, conflict of interest and commitment, export controls, research security, and research integrity. Ability to interpret complex regulations and apply them to practical institutional operations.
• Leadership & Strategic Management. A minimum of 5 years of progressive management or leadership experience in research laboratory oversight, including chemical and/or radiation safety, and research safety risk management, preferably within a research university or a complex scientific research facility.
• Investigative & Analytical Skills. Strong capacity to evaluate complex scientific protocols, identify latent risks, and propose creative, compliant solutions that do not unnecessarily stifle research innovation.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex regulations into actionable guidance during high-stress situations.
• Time Management & Prioritization Skills. Ability to manage multiple compliance programs, deadlines, inquiries, investigations, and projects simultaneously. Ability to exercise influence and drive compliance in an environment where authority is decentralized (e.g., working with independent Principal Investigators).
Minimum Qualifications:
• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline. Ph.D. preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive management or leadership experience in research laboratory oversight, specifically including chemical and/or radiation safety, and research safety risk management, preferably within a research university or a complex scientific research facility.
• Prior supervisory and management experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Proven track record of building collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders, particularly faculty, principal investigators, and executive leadership.
• Certifications: Examples: Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Chemical Hygiene Officer (CHO), or Certified Research Safety Professional (CRSP).
Position Type:
Permanent Full-Time. The primary location of the position is on-site in Socorro, NM.
How to Apply:
Application materials must be submitted online. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until a candidate has been selected for hire.
Please include a cover letter, current resume and a list of three professional references with complete contact information.
For questions or additional information please contact Vice President for Research Lique Coolen at lique.coolen@nmt.edu
Interested candidates are invited to learn more and submit application materials through the New Mexico Tech employment portal: https://www.nmt.edu/hr/employment.php
New Mexico Tech is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.
