Associate Director, Research

Under the supervision of the Vice President, Research, the incumbent helps to plan, organize and manage the Affiliate's research application, review and awards functions.  Ensures compliance with program policies and guidelines. 

 

Problem solves issues pertaining to the research information system, electronic application submission and on-line awards administration system.  Supervises the performance of two support staff in order to ensure effective and efficient departmental operations.

 

MAJOR DUTIES:

 

1. Plans, organizes and manages support functions related to applicant services.  This includes:  updating annual timelines and screening procedures; providing technical support to applicants on the use of electronic forms and application procedures; and supervising the processing of applications.

 

2. Coordinates support functions pertaining to the review of applications. Coordinates review assignments directly with Peer Review Committee Chairmen and with individual reviewers as assigned.  Assists with reviewer recruitment.  Arranges meeting accommodations.  Edits reviewer critiques for the provision to applicants.

 

3. Oversees awards administration.  Notifies applicants of funding decisions.  Answers questions from institutions and applicants about award requirements and on-line awards administration system.  Develops research award payment schedules.  Screens expenditure reports.  Negotiates repayment of funds by institutions. Administers award changes according to established procedures. Provides information, as needed, to field offices, Finance and independent auditors.

 

4. Develop rank-order funding lists, communication with Western States Affiliate applicants regarding review outcomes (scores and critiques), and the provision of outcome information to the Texas Affiliate.

 

5. Assists the Vice President in planning and staffing the Research Committee, Peer Review Committees and Consortium Steering Committee.

 

6. Supervises the maintenance of departmental files and electronic records.

 

7. Supervises, trains and evaluates the Project Coordinators to assure adequate performance is maintained.  This includes the development and monitoring of work schedules.

 

8. Develops, in consultation with the Vice President, operating procedures needed to ensure effective and efficient departmental operations.



 

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

 

1.  Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.

 

2.  Prior experience in grant awards management preferred.

 

3.  Demonstrated experience working with high level volunteer leadership.

 

4.  Knowledge of standard management, human resources and bookkeeping principles, practices and techniques.

 

5.  Skill in organizing complex tasks, and in developing and implementing timelines and operating procedures.

 

6.  Demonstrated proficiency with word processing, data base and spreadsheet software using MS Word, Excel, Access.  Internet/web experience.

 

7.  Skill in oral and written communications and the ability to work cooperatively with all levels of volunteers, staff, applicants and awardees.

 

8.  Ability to manage support functions pertaining to the application, review and funding process for the Affiliate research program.

 

9.  Ability to problem-solve issues pertaining to the Association?s electronic research administration systems.

 

10.  Ability to produce detailed records and reports with an exceptionally high degree of accuracy.

 

11.  Experience in general administration, including standard office procedures.

 

12.  Experience in the preparation of documents and maintenance of records, including financial records.

 

13.  Experience in coordinating meeting arrangements.

 

Knowledge and skills may be gained by three years of administrative experience and at least two years supervisory experience OR any equivalent combination of education and/or experience.