Founding Director, Translational Behavioral Science Center

Palo Alto University; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Palo Alto University invites applications for Founding Executive Director, Center for Translational Research in Behavioral Science. The role leads a university-wide hub to expand PAU’s research capacity, develop faculty and student research, and increase external funding.

The successful candidate is entrepreneurial and collaborative, capable of building the Center from the ground up while strengthening PAU’s research culture, visibility, and impact.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent terminal research doctorate in psychology, behavioral science, health science, social science, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Establish and lead the Center, including strategy, programs, operations, budget, partnerships, and success measures.
• Supervise research-related functions including library, IRB, grants, writing support, and research design and data analysis services.
• Develop signature research initiatives that translate PAU scholarship into practical applications.
• Engage faculty across the University as Center affiliates, collaborators, and research leaders.
• Build strategic partnerships with universities, healthcare organizations, community organizations, government, foundations, and industry.
• Support Presidential initiatives by identifying research opportunities and external engagement aligned with PAU’s goals.

Skills

Leadership

Research administration

Strategic partnerships

External funding

Communication

Project management

Collaborative teamwork

Entrepreneurial mindset

Education

PhD or equivalent terminal research doctorate in psychology/behavioral science

Job description

Palo Alto University invites applications for Founding Executive Director, Center for Translational Research in Behavioral Science. The role leads a university-wide hub to expand PAU’s research capacity, develop faculty and student research, and increase external funding.

The successful candidate is entrepreneurial and collaborative, capable of building the Center from the ground up while strengthening PAU’s research culture, visibility, and impact.