Director, Research Programs

Position Summary

The Director of Research Programs leads and directs the various strategic, programmatic, outreach, and administrative functions for collaborative, inter-institutional programs focused on biomedical research. The Director manages the inter-institutional seed grant program and other research groups and initiatives that impact the biomedical sciences training and research community in the Houston-Galveston area. They may assist with research grant preparation and may be engaged with program deliverables, such as project management, reporting, outreach. They facilitate opportunities to collaborate across the Texas Medical Center including meetings/conferences focused on various themes in biomedical research. They oversee research program staff and interact extensively with faculty across multiple biomedical institutions. They may serve as a liaison with granting agencies and institutional partners.

This position is with the Gulf Coast Consortia (GCC) organization at Rice University. The Director reports to the GCC Executive Director.

Ideal Candidate Statement

The ideal candidate is a capable, people-oriented, detail-oriented person, with a track record of excellent customer service in an academic environment. He or she will have experience in assisting with biomedical research program administration and proposal development and in organizing and implementing conferences, workshops and other events to bring together faculty and researchers across multiple institutions.

Workplace Requirements

The office for this position is located in the BioScience Research Collaborative, 6500 Main Street, Houston.

This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Typically, this is 3-4 days/week in the office.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• Four or more (4+) years facilitating biomedical research collaborations and managing biomedical research programs in academia or industry

Skills

• Ability to develop complex and / or multiple program partnerships and potential funding sources
• Knowledge of managing budgets and developing financial plans
• Ability to develop and initiate new strategies
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage projects simultaneously
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office suite
• Excellent data analysis skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to meet expected deadlines and schedules
• Adept at problem solving, creating contingency plans and handling issues when necessary
• Excellent client service orientation
• Ability to lead and motivate others
• Strategic skills to craft and implement project plans
• Excellent attention to detail

Preferences

• Advanced degree (e.g. MS, PhD,) in a biomedical related field
• Familiar with academic, biomedical research institutions in the Texas Medical Center.
• Experience in planning and organizing large events