Director, Research Strategy & Operations

Des Moines University College of Health Sciences (CHS); West Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences in West Des Moines is seeking a forward-thinking Director of Research Strategy & Operations to lead the development and execution of research initiatives that expand institutional impact. The role involves launching centers, securing funding, overseeing agreements, compliance, and technology transfer to advance a dynamic research enterprise.

The ideal candidate brings strategic vision and operational expertise, with a proven ability to turn

Qualifications

• PhD in biomedical or related field with proven academic research leadership.
• Minimum five years in academic research administration or related roles.
• Experience supervising teams and managing sponsored programs.
• Ability to translate priorities into actionable development strategies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of the institutional research strategy in partnership with the Chief Research Officer.
• Direct research development and sponsored programs activities, including grants and multidisciplinary collaborations.
• Provide operational leadership for research centers, shared resources, and strategic initiatives.
• Advance external partnerships, technology transfer, IP processes, and commercialization opportunities.
• Oversee budget planning, resource allocation, and compliance in research governance.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Research administration

Budget management

Cross-functional leadership

Grant development

Education

PhD in biomedical or related field

Tools

Grant management systems

Compliance tools

Job description

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences in West Des Moines is seeking a forward-thinking Director of Research Strategy & Operations to lead the development and execution of research initiatives that expand institutional impact. The role involves launching centers, securing funding, overseeing agreements, compliance, and technology transfer to advance a dynamic research enterprise.

The ideal candidate brings strategic vision and operational expertise, with a proven ability to turn