Program Manager, Research Development and Support (Hybrid)

Vanderbilt University • Nashville, TN

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Manager, Research Development and Support (RDS) is a key individual contributor in Vanderbilt University’s Office of the Vice Provost for Research and Innovation. The role manages the limited submissions opportunities (LSO) and Internal Awards programs and assists with research development activities. It requires significant autonomy, decision-making, problem-solving, and discretion. The Program Manager reports to the Executive Director of Research Development and works closely with the RDS team and faculty to provide research development services.

The RDS team supports university leadership, faculty, and program staff across Vanderbilt’s colleges, schools, and networked campuses. Its work connects sponsor interests and priorities with Vanderbilt’s research strengths and advances university academic, research, and institutional goals through partnerships. The office supports extramural funding, trans-institutional research, and strategic research partnerships.

This is a hybrid role, with three days each week in the office and two days remote. The position has no supervisory responsibility and reports administratively and functionally to the Executive Director of Research Development.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education.
• At least two years of research-related experience.
• At least three years of experience in a professional office setting.
• Proven decision-making experience, with good judgment and discretion.
• Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to prioritize and multitask.
• Commitment to accuracy and thoroughness.
• General working knowledge of the Microsoft Office software suite.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills, flexibility, collaborative spirit, and service orientation.
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education.
• Prior experience working with university faculty in higher education.
• Strong interest in research development.

Responsibilities

• Manage the limited submissions opportunities (LSO) program, including identifying opportunities, administering internal competitions, maintaining faculty review committees, recruiting ad hoc reviewers, and coordinating with Vanderbilt University Medical Center on shared opportunities.
• Manage all aspects of the Internal Awards program, including publicity and outreach such as webinars, maintaining faculty reviewer committees, and handling stakeholder correspondence.
• Determine when program issues should be brought to the Executive Director of Research Development; present and advise on solutions and policy or procedure improvements.
• Assist with research development activities, including funding searches and sponsor research, coordinating with the RDS team to provide consistent and accurate information to faculty researchers.
• Work with the RDS/OVPRI team to develop and implement reports displaying RDS metrics.
• When required, serve as the RDS liaison to University offices such as Development and Alumni Relations and Marketing and Communications, and advise on processes for systems such as VandyQuest, InfoReady, and website development programs.
• Support university-wide, multi-institutional, interdisciplinary research proposals by coordinating meetings, evaluating or producing content, and gathering information.
• Coordinate with RDS staff to produce events, including faculty grant-writing workshops and campus visits by representatives of federal and private funding agencies.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level