Director of Research Development

UC San Diego Director of Research Development Hiring Pay Scale: $130,000 - $190,000 / Year Filing Deadline: Fri 5/8/2026, thereafter Open Until Filled DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research & Innovation (VCRI) supports, facilitates and promotes the world‑class research enterprise at UC San Diego by a) providing essential services and resources that enhance research and other creative endeavors, b) enabling partnerships and collaborations among researchers at UC San Diego and between UC San Diego and government, industry and other research enterprises, and c) developing infrastructure and policy that promote innovation, an entrepreneurial culture, communication, and compliance for the UC San Diego research enterprise. The organization fosters research across disciplines by enhancing the research experience through effective stewardship of resources, policies, compliance and expertise, and by developing tools and educational programs as the responsible steward of the campus research enterprise. The Office of Research Affairs (ORA) is the central VCRI office with direct oversight for all VCRI operational, administrative and public relations/communication functions and for core units including Research and Visiting Scholars, Research Ethics, Research Initiatives, Research Proposal Development, International Outreach, and multi‑disciplinary campus research (Organized Research Units). Other enterprise‑wide research support departments under the Vice Chancellor for Research & Innovation include Contract and Grant Administration, Innovation and Commercialization, the Animal Care Program, Research Compliance and Integrity (IACUC, Export Control, Conflict of Interest), and the VCRI Service Core. POSITION OVERVIEW The Director of Research Development will advance the research vision of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, serve as a critical partner with faculty and university leadership, and connect with enterprise‑wide research offices to expand and enhance research across the university. The Director will lead the VCRI Research Development and Growth team, with oversight for the Limited Submissions program, internal funding opportunities, and providing support for complex proposal development, proposal management, and graphic design services for PIs. The Director will work with ORI and campus senior leadership to identify and support strategic sponsored program funding priorities and researcher development programs. In support of this work, the Director will actively engage in strategic proposal development activities and competitive intelligence gathering to ensure that UC San Diego is well positioned to compete for and win high priority sponsored project funding opportunities. Cover letter strongly encouraged for a complete application. QUALIFICATIONS Expert academic background and experience in selected area of research including extensive record of publications in related field(s) required. Demonstrated experience (typically 7 years min.) in research environment, including 5 years in Research Development. Demonstrable track record in developing proposals for scientific, philanthropic or other funding organizations. Highly advanced oral and written communication skills. Expert ability to formulate solutions, new program development, alternative choices and implications for implementation. Highly developed interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse groups to achieve results. Highly developed ability to work collaboratively with internal and external peers, managers and teams. Highly developed program planning and management of projects. Highly advanced skills analyzing information, problems, situations, policies or procedures to define the problem, need or objective. Excellent negotiation skills, including ability to resolve conflict among various groups and individuals. Extensive experience directing communications with policy makers and/or the media. PREFERRED 10 years of experience in Research Development, including leadership of Research Development or Research Development efforts in a research program. Advanced Degree in STEM or Communications. Experience supervising professional and administrative staff members; minimum of 3 years’ preferred. SPECIAL CONDITIONS This position may be eligible for a Hybrid flexible work arrangement, which could include a non‑standard work schedule, and/or the ability to work off‑site for a portion of each week. Ability to work flexible schedule, occasional evenings/nights, weekends and holidays, often on short notice to meet operational needs. Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results. APPLY ONLINE If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements. To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr