Office of Research & Innovation

Location:

Non-Campus Other

Time Type:

Full time

Worker Type:

Regular

Job Req ID:

R106815

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree in a related field and eight (8) years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Grade 17 (Salaried)

Position Description:

The University of Louisville seeks an experienced and dynamic leader to serve as the Associate Vice President Research (Operations and Strategy) within the Office of Research and Innovation (ORI). The AVP is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the ORI, ensuring the seamless execution of research administration and support services across the university. Reporting directly to the Executive Vice-President for Research and Innovation (EVPRI), the AVP collaborates with the EVPRI, the EVPRI’s leadership team, and campus leaders to implement the strategic mission and vision for research at the University of Louisville. This role requires a proactive, detail-oriented professional with a strong background in research administration, systems management, and operational leadership.

General Responsibilities:

The Associate Vice President Research (Operations and Strategy) has oversight over the day-to-day operation of the Office of Research and Innovation (ORI), including but not limited to:

• Strategic Plan and Budget: Work in partnership with the EVPRI’s Leadership Team in developing the unit’s strategic plan, budget, and annual objectives.
• Serves as the Chief Tactical Officer: Manage the execution of strategic initiatives of critical importance to UofL and to the ORI. Develop, monitor, and report on key performance indicators for the ORI.
• Facilities and Administrative (F&A) Rate Calculation: Manage the process for calculating and negotiating F&A rates, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and alignment with institutional priorities.
• Completion of key reports and surveys: Lead completion of key reporting and surveys including the annual Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research rankings of funding from the National Institutes of Health, the annual National Science Foundation Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) survey, and U.S. News and World Reports rankings relevant to the ORI. Conducts analysis of annual research expenditure and award data to accurately reflect the University’s ranking among institutions of higher education.
• Facilities and Infrastructure: Coordinate with campus partners to ensure research facilities and infrastructure meet the needs of investigators and comply with safety, regulatory, and operational standards.
• Creation and Optimization of multidisciplinary centers and institutes, reporting directly to EVPRI office.
• Strategic oversight of Office of Sponsored Programs Administration.
• EVPRI University Representation: Serve on various university committees and represent the Executive Vice President for Research and Innovation.
• Other duties as assigned.

In partnership with the EVPRI and the leadership team, the AVP plays a critical role in advancing the university’s research goals by fostering collaboration, optimizing resources, and implementing innovative operational strategies.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the EVPRI in strategic planning, budgeting, and resource allocation for research activities.
• Provide strategic oversight and operational leadership for the ORI, ensuring alignment with the university’s research mission and vision.
• Collaborate with campus leaders, faculty, and staff to identify and address operational needs within the research ecosystem.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance research administration and compliance.
• Manage a team of professionals within the ORI, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Serve as a liaison between the ORI and other university departments, external partners, and funding agencies to facilitate research initiatives.
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of operational systems and processes, recommending and implementing improvements as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience in research administration, operations, or a related field, preferably within a higher education or research-intensive environment.

Skills and Competencies:

• Demonstrated expertise in managing complex operational systems, including research administration software and financial reporting tools.
• Strong understanding of F&A rate negotiation, federal compliance requirements (e.g., OMB Uniform Guidance), and research funding mechanisms.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide diverse teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with senior leadership, faculty, and external stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with a track record of implementing innovative solutions to operational challenges.
• High level of organizational and analytical skills, with a keen attention to detail.

Compensation Will Be Commensurate To Candidate Experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Louisville is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, sex, age, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, pregnancy, or veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact the Employment team at [email protected] or 502.852.6258.

Assistance and Accommodations

Computers are available for application submission at the Human Resources Department located at 215 Central Avenue, Ste 205 – Louisville, Kentucky 40208.

If you require assistance or accommodation with our online application process, please contact us by email at [email protected] or by phone 502-852-6258.