Research Manager

University of Washington Medical Center•Seattle, WA

20d•$71,484 - $136,668

About The Position

The Department of Dermatology is hiring a Research Manager, with the business title Director of People and Programs, to provide strategic and operational leadership for the Merkel Cell Carcinoma Collaborative (MC3) and the Nghiem Lab. The role oversees a complex portfolio of research programs and projects, including strategic planning, personnel management, financial operations, philanthropy, educational outreach, communications, clinical research database initiatives, and external partnerships. Working closely with the Principal Investigator and MC3 leadership, the Research Manager helps set strategic direction and translate program priorities into sustainable operational plans. The position manages day-to-day administrative, financial, and personnel functions and represents MC3 and the Nghiem Lab to funding agencies, academic and industry collaborators, and other external partners. The role manages approximately 15 employees. MC3 and the Nghiem Lab bring together research, clinical, educational, and collaborative initiatives focused on Merkel cell carcinoma. Their work with academic, clinical, philanthropic, and industry partners aims to advance research and improve patient outcomes. The Director of People and Programs supports the people, infrastructure, partnerships, and operational strategy needed to advance this work.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field; equivalent experience does not substitute for this degree requirement.
Three years of relevant professional experience.
Experience leading a large, multidisciplinary team and applying effective leadership practices, including providing feedback, aligning organizational values with daily practices, active listening, empathy, and managing difficult conversations.
Strong written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated success building and maintaining collaborative partnerships.
Experience fostering an environment that supports professional growth, employee well-being, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Demonstrated ability to present effectively to a wide range of audiences.
Demonstrated ability to establish and communicate an organizational vision that engages and inspires team members and collaborators.
Demonstrated success in strategic planning, program management, and collaboration with philanthropic entities.
Demonstrated alignment with MC3’s values of education, integrity, collaboration, and transformative science focused on improving patient outcomes.

Nice To Haves

Ten or more years of professional experience in oncology research or clinical care.
Three or more years of experience in a senior management or leadership position.
Knowledge of Merkel cell carcinoma.
Experience managing complex research programs involving multiple projects, funding sources, and external collaborations.
Experience working within an academic research or academic medical environment.

Responsibilities

Partner with the Principal Investigator and MC3 leadership to establish strategic direction, identify program priorities, and develop and implement operational plans supporting the long-term sustainability and growth of MC3 and the Nghiem Lab.
Identify and pursue funding opportunities for research initiatives and develop academic and industry collaborations to expand research capabilities and support improved patient outcomes.
Lead workforce planning, recruitment, onboarding, retention, performance management, professional development, and employee relations in partnership with Department of Dermatology administration.
Manage approximately 15 research and administrative staff, including Research Scientists, Research Coordinators, and Research Student Trainees; set expectations, provide feedback and development opportunities, address performance and workplace concerns, and promote effective team operations.
Collaborate with finance teams to monitor grants, contracts, philanthropic funds, and other funding sources; review financial needs and adjust budgets and allocations to support research priorities.
Oversee philanthropic and grant-funded initiatives to ensure compliance with donor and grantor requirements, and represent the programs in discussions with funding partners about financial and programmatic activities.
Provide operational oversight for the MC3 research program and MCC patient database, ensuring data integrity and supporting use of the database in research and clinical publications.
Oversee the Clinical Research Fellowship and Undergraduate Research Assistant Training Program, including recruitment, administration, training, and coordination of activities.
Lead educational and outreach initiatives, including the Merkel CELLebration Dinner and Multicenter Merkel Interest Group Meeting, and represent MC3 at national and international conferences, workshops, and other professional forums.
Serve as a primary liaison among research teams, UW Dermatology, funding organizations, academic and industry collaborators, and other external partners.
Oversee MC3 communications and outreach, including website content, newsletters, and other initiatives that advance program visibility, engagement, and collaboration.