PRINCIPAL COUNSEL, RESEARCH & COMPLIANCE (Oakland)

PRINCIPAL COUNSEL, RESEARCH & COMPLIANCE

Position Base: Oakland
Location: UCOP - Franklin Building

Position Summary

Reporting to the Managing Counsel – Education Affairs & Governance, this role independently provides legal counsel and advice on complex research‑related matters, non‑research studies, and other Education Affairs & Governance issues. The Principal Counsel offers functional advice, training, and guidance to clients and campus attorneys, liaison with outside counsel, and may represent the University in governmental enforcement and administrative matters. Responsibilities include knowledge of laws, regulations, and policies related to research integrity, human subjects, animal welfare, export control, regulatory and sponsor policy, conflict of interest, safety, security, and other federal, state, sponsor, and University policies governing research conduct.

Responsibilities

• Establish effective relationships with key internal and external constituencies to provide legal advice and counsel regarding risk identification and mitigation, and to facilitate regulatory and policy compliance in areas related to university research.
• Recognize strategic needs of the organization and proactively build relationships to ensure successful outcomes.
• Serve as a trusted strategic partner with business units, providing practical advice and alternative solutions.
• Advise and render opinions to senior leaders on legal implications of establishing or changing policy.
• Work with colleagues to develop and modify practices and procedures to conform with changing legal requirements.
• Assist clients in drafting, reviewing, and revising instruments such as research agreements and policies.
• Formulate strategic action plans regarding new and existing laws, regulations, and agency and sponsor policies related to university research.
• Provide functional advice, training, and guidance; mentor attorneys with less experience in research compliance.
• Act as liaison with outside counsel and represent the University in complex regulatory matters.
• Negotiate contracts and advise on compliance and risk‑mitigation strategies.
• Delegate work to maximize efficiencies, mentor staff, and guide attorneys toward expertise.

Experience

• Minimum eight years of relevant legal practice experience in a law firm, in‑house counsel, governmental entity, corporation, or other entity.

Required Qualifications

• Expert understanding of complex legal issues with the ability to foresee implications in ambiguous contexts.
• Outstanding interpersonal communication skills; proven ability to listen, negotiate, persuade, and educate.
• Strong relationship‑building and strategic thinking skills; ability to influence stakeholders at the macro level.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the higher‑education organizational environment to understand client priorities.
• Demonstrated commitment to highest ethical standards and confidentiality.
• Excellent research and written communication skills; ability to create and deliver effective materials.

Preferred Qualifications

• Significant experience advising university clients on research matters, including federally funded research.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and coach staff at all levels; provide succession planning.

Education

Advanced degree in a related area is required.

Licenses and Certifications

Must be a member in good standing in the California State Bar or admitted within one year of employment. Current admission is strongly preferred.

Special Conditions

The person hired will reside within California and report to UC’s Office of the President in Oakland on a regular basis. Employees are required to work onsite at least two days per week (Tuesday and Wednesday). Remote work may be considered under exceptional circumstances approved by General Counsel.

Travel Requirements

Occasional travel to campuses (~5% of time).

Salary and Benefits

Job Title: Counsel 4
Job Code: 000201
Salary Grade: 29
Payscale: $235,000 – $272,000 annual, commensurate with experience

Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, vision, retirement, and other programs. For further information, visit the University’s benefits portal.

EEO Statement

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.