Senior Scientist and Executive Director Envision Research Institute

Envision•Wichita, KS

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Scientist and Executive Director of the Envision Research Institute (ERI) directs the institute’s research activities, infrastructure, staff, and financial operations. The role develops and implements strategic goals in alignment with Envision’s mission and vision, as directed by the VP of FMS Operations. It also oversees research compliance, ethics training, IRB review, equipment and policy maintenance, and the professional development of scientists, fellows, and research assistants. The Executive Director maintains an independent research program and publishes in peer-reviewed scientific journals. The position advances quantitative, translational, and applied research addressing low vision and blindness, including practical research intended to close gaps in clinical treatment and rehabilitation. It leads research planning, grant administration and fundraising, internal and external partnerships, and communication of research findings. The role also manages the department’s annual budget, evaluates performance indicators, oversees recruitment and staff performance, and promotes research integrity, continuous improvement, and a positive work environment. The position is based in Wichita, Kansas, is full-time, and is listed as a first-shift role. The posting lists travel at 10% in the job details and states an ability to travel up to 25% of scheduled time elsewhere. The role supervises 2–4 employees. Work may be performed with or without assistive technology; required activities include preparing and analyzing data, viewing computer screens, reading, inspecting small objects, using measuring devices, assembling parts with close eye contact, and reviewing assigned work or the work of others.

Requirements

PhD in psychology, biology, neuroscience, vision science, engineering, human factors, or another field relevant to blindness and visual impairment; alternatively, an OD or MD is required.
Minimum 5–10 years of research experience with significant research management experience, including familiarity with research business practices, strategic planning, financial planning, and business development.
Minimum 3–5 years of experience in low vision and blindness research.
At least 7 years of demonstrated success raising significant funds in the nonprofit sector.
Demonstrated research independence.
Scientific manuscripts published over at least the last five years.
Minimum 5–10 years of experience presenting research findings at conferences and to peers.
Experience creating and implementing efficient processes.
Experience documenting procedures and policies.
Thorough understanding of research methodology, including study design, protocol writing, clinical research form preparation, and Good Clinical Practice regulatory requirements.
Scientific networking skills and extensive knowledge of federal and state policies governing research.
Strong ability to write and review manuscripts for peer-reviewed scientific journals.
Ability to develop and manage a diverse staff, with commitment to quality and integrity and strong interpersonal and public communication skills.
High competency in statistical data analysis, including statistical process control and process and product stability and capability analysis; ability to proficiently use statistical analysis software such as SPSS.
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, self-directed, and resourceful, with a strong service orientation.
Ability to work effectively as part of a senior leadership team characterized by trust, open communication, collaboration, and shared goals.
Ability to adapt to changing priorities and proactively solve problems in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Ability to read, interpret, and understand contracts and other legal documents.

Nice To Haves

Experience training adult learners.
Experience driving culture change and/or fostering healthy work environments.
Knowledge of change management.
Knowledge of continuous process improvement methodology.

Responsibilities

Direct the Envision Research Institute’s activities and infrastructure in alignment with Envision’s mission and research strategy.
Advance quantitative, translational, and applied research in low vision and blindness, including studies addressing practical clinical treatment and rehabilitation needs.
Create and chair the Envision Research Advisory Panel to review research proposals for strategic fit, scientific merit, human-subject protections, and budget compliance.
Develop and encourage clinical research collaborations between Envision and public- and private-sector organizations.
Plan, direct, and evaluate research department operations and infrastructure support.
Manage Institutional Review Board review for projects approved by the Envision Research Advisory Panel.
Establish and oversee pre-award and post-award grant administration, pursue external research funding, and develop collaborative research with other institutions.
Maintain awareness of developments in low vision and blindness rehabilitation research by attending relevant events and reviewing key journals.
Lead continuous process improvement efforts and track research performance indicators, including publications, fellows trained, and conference presentations.
Ensure the research team has appropriate resources, technology, equipment, and support, including for employees with low vision or blindness.
Assist the VP in developing and implementing the institute’s annual strategic plan and objectives.
Monitor and manage the research department’s annual operating budget and financial affairs.
Oversee software implementation, updates, and training; oversee procurement and maintenance of institute resources with the Research Program Manager.
Oversee recruitment, staff development, and performance evaluation; coordinate with other divisions on staffing, training, policies, and procedures.
Promote research integrity, regulatory compliance, continuing education, professional development, and Envision’s core values.
Participate in community outreach promoting science and education about low vision and blindness.
Present Envision research at meetings and conferences and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
Maintain communication with executive and peer leaders, protect confidential information, and collaborate across departments on partnerships, funding, resources, and research priorities.
Serve as principal investigator or co-investigator when appropriate; complete human-subject ethics training; develop research methods and protocols; obtain ethical approval; recruit participants; collect and analyze data; and complete projects.
Assist with special projects and perform other duties as assigned.
Travel as required; the posting specifies up to 25% of scheduled time in the responsibilities section.