Research Security Analyst

Rice University•Houston, TX

12h•$75,000 - $90,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Office for Research Security and Export Controls (RSEC) at Rice University is seeking a Research Security Analyst (RSA) to play a pivotal role in achieving the university's ambitious security objectives related to research, international collaborations, and commercialization activities. The RSA will report directly to the Director for Research Security and will aid in identifying and mitigating research security threats. This position requires the RSA to serve as a trusted resource for Rice's leadership, faculty, and community of scholars, while also engaging constructively with government officials and external advisory boards. The RSA will be expected to assist the Director for Research Security, the Research Security Manager, and the Associate Vice President for Campus Safety and Research Security in strategizing and implementing Rice's research security efforts. This includes coordinating with various university offices to promote international research collaborations and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. In addition to conducting risk assessments and monitoring external threats, the RSA will assist in developing and providing training to promote research security across the university. The RSA will also be responsible for assisting in drafting policies and procedures, advising leadership on trends affecting the research enterprise, and establishing a robust research security program to address concerns such as undue foreign influence and economic espionage.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
4+ years of professional experience working for a government agency or a Carnegie-classified Research 1 university
In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education above and beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis
Demonstrated knowledge of the geopolitical context of research and innovation, cybersecurity, intellectual property, and data governance
Strong communication skills to facilitate credibility and foster trust with diverse stakeholders
Experience working with federal law enforcement and funding agencies on research security matters
Ability to work on confidential and sensitive matters with tact and discretion
Ability to obtain and maintain an appropriate level of security clearance from the U.S. government
Superior knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and database software programs
Exceptional analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills
Proficiency in statistical analysis, data interpretation, and critical thinking to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets
Strong understanding of research methodologies, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, survey design, and experimental techniques
Ability to collect, organize, and manage large datasets efficiently while maintaining data integrity and confidentiality
Capability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously, including planning, coordination, and timely execution while ensuring adherence to deadlines and budget constraints

Nice To Haves

At least 5 years of professional experience working for a government agency or a Carnegie-classified Research 1 university
Doctoral degree or law degree from an accredited university
Professional experience in a research university or similar complex entity
Established network of contacts in academic institutions or government agencies
Deep knowledge of academic research programs and sponsored research funding
The ideal candidate for this role will possess a security clearance at the SECRET level and have substantial experience working on national security matters within the intelligence community, including agencies such as the FBI, CIA, NSA, and Department of Defense.

Responsibilities

Assist the Director for Research Security, Research Security Manager, and the Associate Vice President for Campus Safety and Research Security with the strategy and implementation of Rice's research security efforts
Work with various Rice University offices to coordinate efforts promoting international research collaborations and compliance with laws and regulations
Conduct risk assessments and implement continuous monitoring processes to promote research security and legal compliance
Monitor external threats and manage individual research security matters, including meeting PI’s directly and regularly as needed
Develop and provide training and outreach to promote research security
Collaborate with Rice departments and administrative offices to understand research security threats and implement solutions
Draft and socialize relevant policies and procedures regarding research security
Advise leadership on trends and enforcement activities affecting the research enterprise
Report material research security concerns to applicable leaders
Establish a systematic records system to document program activities and create mechanisms for regular discussions on research security issues
Lead the strategic planning, conceptualization, and implementation of advanced research initiatives. Innovate methodologies and frameworks to optimize data acquisition and analysis processes
Conduct comprehensive gathering, interpretation, and analysis of intricate datasets sourced from diverse channels
Utilize advanced statistical and analytical tools to extract actionable insights and forecast trends. Develop sophisticated predictive models based on rigorous data analysis
Produce detailed reports, succinct summaries, and impactful presentations elucidating research discoveries
Effectively communicate intricate data insights to stakeholders and decision-makers
Spearhead the design, development, and management of robust databases and data systems
Establish and uphold models and structures conducive to seamless data analysis and retrieval
Ensure the utmost accuracy, validity, and reliability of data through stringent quality control measures. Implement advanced validation techniques to authenticate research findings and conclusions
Drive the development and implementation of cutting-edge automated reporting solutions, optimizing data collection processes. Identify and execute enhancements in methodologies and data collection systems
Uphold stringent adherence to regulatory mandates and ethical guidelines governing research practices
Effectively manage timelines, resource allocation, and project budgets for complex research endeavors. Foster seamless coordination with various departments and external collaborators as needed
Remain abreast of the latest trends, tools, and methodologies in the realm of research and data analysis
Pursue continuous professional development avenues to enrich competencies and expertise
Performs other duties as assigned