Director of Research Security and Compliance

Wichita State University seeks a dynamic leader and seasoned administrator to serve as the Director of Research Security and Compliance. Founded in 1895, Wichita State has a keen focus on student success, powerful industry partnerships, and innovative faculty and scholars conducting cutting-edge applied research in state-of-the-art facilities. It is a growth-minded university where collaboration and groundbreaking ideas shape the future, with an entrepreneurial spirit embedded in its foundation.

Since 2010, Wichita State University is one of the fastest-growing research universities in the United States. Currently designated as a “High Research Activity” institution, Wichita State is strategically moving towards the “Very High Research Activity” Carnegie classification. Considerably strengthening research awards in the last several years has moved Wichita State far beyond the threshold of an R1 classification, and the university is now concentrating on increasing the number of PhD graduates. The City of Wichita is a manufacturing and aeronautics powerhouse with one of the highest per capita concentration of engineers in the country. The university community enjoys mutually beneficial partnerships with strong regional and national corporate and governmental organizations through numerous Wichita State initiatives, including the Innovation Campus and the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR).

The Director will shape a trusted, centralized compliance framework that balances rigorous regulatory adherence with an innovative research culture that supports high-risk, cutting-edge projects, many involving key industry partners. The Director will be expected to (1) understand the diverse needs of members across the university, (2) serve as a partner and educator around research compliance matters, (3) facilitate the sharing of information and knowledge amongst members, (4) develop protocols that strike a balance between efficiency and effective compliance, and (5) work collaboratively with the broader Office of Research, IDP, and related research units.

Wichita State University has retained Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist in the recruitment of the new Director. Inquiries, referrals, and CVs accompanied by a cover letter should be submitted via the Isaacson, Miller Director of Research Security and Compliance search page.

Jackie Mildner, Partner
Courtney Cabansag, Associate
Pamela Carty, Senior Search Coordinator
Isaacson, Miller