"Executive Director for Strategic Research Initiatives"

Executive Director for Strategic Research Initiatives (FA719A)

ODU is seeking candidates for an Executive Director for Strategic Research Initiatives (full-time, 12 month) position. To lead strategic research development initiatives that enhance the university’s competitiveness for external funding—particularly from federal agencies—by supporting complex proposal development, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, managing key research infrastructure, and aligning services with institutional research priorities.

Required Education: Master’s degree

Required Qualifications:

• Comprehensive knowledge of federal research funding agencies (e.g., DoD, NSF, NIH, DOE), including proposal development process, sponsor engagement, regulations, and compliance.
• Considerable knowledge of navigating complex academic environments, aligning services with institutional goals, and supporting high-impact research initiatives through effective coordination and partnership development.
• Demonstrated strong operational leadership skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to communicate precisely and effectively with multiple audiences.
• Demonstrated skill in analyzing complex situations and making decisions aligned with organizational strategy.
• Ability to engage diverse stakeholders, including faculty and external partners, and a proven ability to support interdisciplinary collaboration and team formation.
• Ability to provide training and support to students and faculty.
• Considerable experience in research and/or research development and proven leadership experience managing teams or cross-functional initiatives with increasing responsibility in a management/decision-making role.
• Considerable experience with proposal development with demonstrated success in grant writing; strong track record in grant writing team leadership, strategic research development, and building external partnerships with federal agencies, industry, or philanthropic sponsors are essential.

Preferred Qualifications: Prefer a PhD in a science or research background.

Conditions of Employment:

Review Date: This position is open until filled.

To apply, please visit https://jobs.odu.edu/postings/23900

It is the policy of Old Dominion University to provide equal employment, educational and social opportunities for all persons, without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists), color, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), national origin, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation or genetic information. Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.