Early Cancer Research Pathways Program Manager

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

1d•$63,554 - $80,840•Hybrid

About The Position

The Early Cancer Research Pathways Program Manager is responsible for leading research education and training initiatives serving Pre-K through undergraduate students across Colorado. As a member of the Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC) team within the Cancer Center Administration Office, this position oversees the day-to-day administration of a portfolio of programs that introduce young learners to biomedical science, cancer research, public health, and health-related career pathways. This role is responsible for designing engaging curricula, coordinating experiential learning processes, managing program recruitment and admissions, leading the development, implementation, and management of strategic planning efforts across Pre-K through undergraduate pathways, overseeing program budgets and financial operations, monitoring and evaluating program outcomes to support continuous improvement and cultivating partnerships that expand access to high-quality, culturally responsive STEM education opportunities. The position plays a critical role in strengthening the research education pipeline and advancing the Cancer Center's commitment to education, discovery, workforce development, and community impact.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education, psychology, business, public administration, health care, educational technology, social science, liberal arts, communications, accounting, finance, library science, or a directly related field from an accredited institution.
4-6 years of professional experience in PreK-12 education, STEM outreach, or undergraduate programming.
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of application.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship. We are unable to provide work visa sponsorship and employment authorization for this position now or in the future.
This position is required to work a hybrid schedule (on-campus, 3 days per week) and as needed for in-person meetings and program activities.
Strong project management and organizational skills.
Strong ability to follow through on multiple complex tasks and projects with similar deadlines.
Excellent communication, facilitation, and relationship building abilities.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and expanding access to STEM pathways.
Ability to work collaboratively across academic, community, and PreK–undergraduate environments.
Creative problem solving and adaptability in dynamic program settings.
Excellent attention to detail.
Ability to analyze data and identify various options for presenting summary data.
Ability to be highly productive in an independent work environment while also able to work collaboratively with, and take direction from, subject matter experts.
Ability to adjust and adapt to changes in priorities.
High level proficiency in Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree (e.g. Master’s) in education, public health, STEM, science communication, or related discipline.
Experience developing curricula or experiential learning programs across multiple age groups.
Demonstrated experience working with diverse student populations and community partners.
Background in research environments, laboratory settings, or science education.
Familiarity with Colorado school systems, undergraduate education structures, and youth serving organizations.
Experience with grant management, program evaluation, and data systems (e.g., REDCap, Smartsheet).

Responsibilities

Lead the strategic planning, design, implementation, and evaluation of cancer research educational programs for pre‑K, elementary, middle school, high school, and undergraduate students.
Develop age‑appropriate curricula, hands‑on modules, and experiential learning activities that highlight biomedical research, cancer science, population health, and related disciplines.
Create and manage summer programs - academic‑year workshops, research‑immersion experiences, and mentorship initiatives including but not limited to: financial management, program development and oversight, tracking, reporting, recruitment and completion of programs.
Ensure programs reflect evidence‑based educational practices, inclusive pedagogy, and CU Anschutz strategic priorities.
Establish and monitor program metrics, evaluation plans, and continuous improvement processes.
Manage day-to-day activities of program coordinator(s).
Build and sustain partnerships with Colorado school districts, undergraduate institutions, teachers, youth‑serving organizations, and community groups.
Coordinate campus involvement, including faculty mentors, research labs, graduate trainees, and outreach volunteers.
Represent CU Anschutz in statewide STEM education networks, advisory committees, and community events.
Strengthen pathways between K–12 programs and undergraduate research opportunities.
Oversee program logistics, including scheduling, recruitment, communications, and event coordination.
Manage budgets, purchasing, and resource allocation in compliance with university and sponsor requirements.
Track grant budget spending
Support grant writing, reporting, and stewardship for philanthropic, federal, and state funding.
Maintain program documentation, evaluation data, and participant records using systems such as REDCap, Smartsheet, and campus‑supported platforms.
Foster inclusive, supportive learning environments for diverse youth and undergraduate populations.
Implement best practices in culturally responsive teaching, trauma‑informed engagement, and accessibility.
Coordinate mentorship opportunities, campus visits, undergraduate research placements, and career‑exploration activities.
Provide guidance and support to undergraduate students participating in research training programs.