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Associate Director, Research Administration Strategy

How to Apply

A cover letter and resume are required for consideration for this position; include the cover letter as the first page of your resume. Your cover letter and resume should highlight relevant experience and interest in research administration, training, strategic planning as well as implementation of initiatives that align with and support strategic objectives.

Job Summary

The University of Michigan is seeking a forward-thinking inaugural Associate Director for Research Administration Strategy to support and enhance the university's research infrastructure requirements and capabilities. The Associate Director will manage key projects supporting the institution-wide adoption of advanced technologies such as AI in research administration and will spearhead efforts in lifecycle training, onboarding, professional development, and trend analysis to inform the university's approach to emerging research opportunities. This role will support development of staffing strategies and initiatives aimed at strengthening the talent pipeline for research administration. The ideal candidate will have experience in both research administration and research development in university settings. The candidate will execute these strategies in alignment with the goals set forth by the Associate Vice President for Research.

Responsibilities*

Strategic Initiatives and Project Management

Participate in the design and execution of strategies for the development and management of data and business intelligence systems to facilitate benchmarking for the research administration ecosystem, including staffing, resource allocation, and operational efficiency.

Plan and implement initiatives to nurture a talent pipeline for research administration that aligns with the university's future growth and dynamic research landscape.

Proactively identify and address infrastructure needs that support successful outcomes in response to trends in university research.

Implement robust lifecycle training and onboarding programs, ensuring that staff across the ecosystem have opportunities for continuous skill development and are recognized for their expertise.

Facilitate the institutional adoption and optimization of AI tools in research administration processes, aiming to enhance efficiency and the quality of research support.

Outreach and Collaboration

Supports the AVPR to collaborate with campus stakeholders within the research community to ensure cohesive support for research administrator professional development and acknowledgment through innovative practices and events, including micro-credentialing/certification and recognition programs.

Represent and engage with external industry associations, institutions and organizations as well as University of Michigan departments and committees to support a collaborative environment that values and supports the contributions of the university research administration community.

Operations & Talent Management

Coordinate the delivery of departmental programs and services, managing assigned initiatives and day-to-day operations to meet established goals

Ensure compliance with institutional policies and dedication to ethical standards in the performance of all activities.

Required Qualifications*

Degree in business administration, public administration, research administration, or a related field.

At least 5 years of progressive experience in research administration, including a proven track record of strategic planning and leadership in a complex research environment.

Demonstrated expertise in incorporating data analytics, business intelligence, and strategic resource allocation in research administration contexts.

Experience in talent development and lifecycle training programs, including the deployment of micro-credentialing systems, is highly desired.

Experience with or understanding of AI applications and the potential for utilization in an administrative context.

Exceptional communication skills with proficiency in engaging and influencing a variety of stakeholders in a collaborative manner.

Proven ability to prioritize initiatives, and execute plans in alignment with strategic objectives.

Familiarity with the broader landscape of research administration and research development, including compliance requirements and best practices.

Work Schedule

General hybrid office environment with an expectation for occasional travel for conferences, seminars, and professional development opportunities. Flexibility in hours may be required to accommodate various projects and initiatives.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about thework modes (https://hr.umich.edu/working-u-m/my-employment/ways-we-work-resource-center/ways-we-work-implementation-group/modes-work) .

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Job Detail

Job Opening ID

268697

Working Title

Associate Director, Research Administration Strategy

Job Title

Operations Manager

Work Location

Ann Arbor Campus

Ann Arbor, MI

Modes of Work

Hybrid

Full/Part Time

Full-Time

Regular/Temporary

Regular

FLSA Status

Exempt

Organizational Group

Umor Sponsored Projs

Department

Office of Rsrch Admin Strategy

Posting Begin/End Date

9/16/2025 - 10/07/2025

Salary

$115,000.00 - $125,000.00

Career Interest

Administration