Notre Dame, IN, United States Full-time Vice President of Research EIC2
Company Description The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University's mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!
Job Description The Research Project Manager (RPM) serves as an embedded partner within various large and/or complex research efforts, supporting the planning, coordination, and execution of complex, mission-driven research initiatives. The RPM provides structure without constraining innovation, applying fit-for-purpose project management approaches to support effective coordination, informed decision-making, and sustained progress across interconnected efforts.
Operating at the intersection of scientific discovery, project management, and research administration, the RPM partners closely with faculty researchers and cross-functional stakeholders to translate research vision into clear, actionable plans and establish shared understanding of scope, roles, priorities, and interdependencies. In doing so, the RPM plays a critical role in advancing research from concept to impact within a complex, values-driven research environment.
This role requires a high degree of independence, sound judgment, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-demand environment with competing priorities and evolving project needs. Success in this role depends on the ability to balance structure with flexibility and to lead through influence, communication, and strong working relationships.
Key Responsibilities
Project Planning and Execution
Translate research aims into actionable project plans, including scope, milestones, timelines, and deliverables
Plan, coordinate, and manage research programs and projects using appropriate project management methodologies and institutional processes
Monitor project progress and ensure alignment with defined objectives while adapting to evolving research direction
Project Monitoring and Reporting
Track progress across timelines, milestones, deliverables, and resources
Analyze project data and prepare clear, actionable reports for PIs, institute leadership, and stakeholders
Support informed decision-making through synthesis of project status, risks, and emerging needs
Stakeholder Coordination and Communication
Serve as a central point of coordination across faculty, research teams, institute leadership, administrative offices, and external partners
Lead and facilitate communication among diverse stakeholders to ensure alignment, clarity, and accountability
Translate across scientific, operational, and administrative perspectives to support effective collaboration
Risk and Issue Management
Identify risks, issues, and interdependencies across project components and across related initiatives
Develop and implement mitigation strategies appropriate to complex and evolving research environments
Support teams in navigating uncertainty, competing priorities, and shifting project conditions
Research Administration Integration
Provide guidance and coordination related to research administration processes, compliance requirements, and operational workflows
Ensure alignment with institutional policies, sponsor requirements, and key deadlines
Partner with administrative units to support proposal, award, and reporting activities
Operational Effectiveness and Continuous Improvement
Identify opportunities to improve processes, tools, and workflows supporting research execution within various initiatives
Contribute to development and adoption of best practices in research project management
Enhance visibility, efficiency, and coordination across research initiatives
Complex and Collaborative Research Support
Support large-scale, multi-institutional, or high-risk research initiatives
Coordinate activities across internal and external partners with diverse roles and expectations
Facilitate integration across scientific, operational, and administrative workstreams and across related initiatives
Demonstrated ability to manage projects in environments characterized by ambiguity, evolving scope, and multiple stakeholders
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences
Proven ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, and administrative partners
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment in dynamic environments
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree
5+ years of experience in research administration
Certified Research Administrator (CRA), or related certification
Experience working in a fast-paced, complex research or innovation environment
Experience supporting research or scientific programs
Experience with multi-institutional or sponsored research projects
Familiarity with research compliance and funding environments
Position Details
This role is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement
Candidates are expected to reside in the local or regional area to support regular on-campus engagement for meetings, events, and key project activities
Additional Information The Research Project Manager works closely with faculty investigators, institute leadership, and research teams within the Academy and engages regularly with administrative partners across the University.
This role requires a high level of professionalism, adaptability, and independent judgment to support complex, evolving research initiatives. The RPM must be comfortable operating in environments with ambiguity, shifting priorities, and multiple stakeholders.
Salary is up to $80,000, commensurate with experience.
Please supply resume and cover letter when submitting your application.
Applications due by May 5, 2026.
The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.
