Director of Research Programs & Strategy

UWMSN University of Wisconsin Madison; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 157,000 - 212,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Wisconsin–Madison is seeking an experienced Research Program Director to provide executive leadership for the Department of Medicine’s research portfolio. The role directs policies, budgets, and strategic planning, serving as a primary liaison with internal and external stakeholders, and aligning research activities with institutional priorities.

The position requires a strong track record in research administration, faculty collaboration, and strategic management within a matrixed

Qualifications

• A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience managing complex, multidisciplinary research portfolios in academic, healthcare, or comparable environments.
• At least 5 years direct experience with pre- and post-award research administration oversight, proposal development, budget planning and preparation, financial systems, and management of large clinical and health services programs.
• Master’s degree in business administration, healthcare administration, or a closely related field is preferred; a Bachelor’s degree is required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the unit liaison and spokesperson to internal and external stakeholder groups.
• Oversee departmental research events and research communications, including grantsmanship development.
• Lead within a complex matrix spanning UW–Madison units and health system partners; align university requirements with research goals.
• Oversee research resource allocation and shared laboratory spaces.
• Capture and present data to department leadership on proposal statistics, awards, and funding trends.
• Develop and audit research program budgets and operating policies to ensure compliance and efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Stakeholder relations

Team building

Strategic planning

Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree Required

Master’s in business administration or healthcare administration

Job description

University of Wisconsin–Madison is seeking an experienced Research Program Director to provide executive leadership for the Department of Medicine’s research portfolio. The role directs policies, budgets, and strategic planning, serving as a primary liaison with internal and external stakeholders, and aligning research activities with institutional priorities.

The position requires a strong track record in research administration, faculty collaboration, and strategic management within a matrixed