Research Compliance Program Specialist, Division of Research & Innovation

Wayne State University; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Wayne State University in Detroit seeks a Research Compliance Program Specialist to manage research compliance processes and audits. This full-time position primarily focuses on conflict of interest reviews and ensuring adherence to federal and state regulations.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree and significant experience in research integrity. Strong interpersonal and analytical skills are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Intermediate (3 to 4 years) job-related experience.
• Considerable experience with research integrity in a university setting.
• Prior experience with export controls preferred.

Responsibilities

• Administer the University’s conflict-of-interest review process.
• Conduct compliance audits ensuring adherence to regulations.
• Provide training in the use of FCOI and FI-COC Software.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Integrity/Honesty

Computer Skills

Analytical Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in research compliance

Tools

Microsoft Office (especially spreadsheets, database, reporting tools)

Job description

Research Compliance Program Specialist, Division of Research & Innovation

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Compliance Program Specialist, Division of Research & Innovation at its Detroit campus location.

Wayne State is a premier public urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high‑quality education. Our deep‑rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.

Position Purpose

The Research Program Compliance Specialist is responsible for administering the University’s conflict‑of‑interest review process and assisting in administering the University’s research misconduct process. This position plans and conducts regular compliance audits, oversees the correction of errors, and assists faculty, staff and students on matters related to research compliance. The role analyzes and tracks regulatory issues related to academic research, including sponsored project administration, research misconduct, conflict of interest, human subject research, animal research, export control, and other research regulations. This position reports to the Associate Vice President, Research Integrity.

Essential Functions

• Manage and coordinate the Financial Conflict of Interest (FCOI) Policy and the Foreign Influence/Conflict of Commitment (FI‑COC) Program; oversee initial screening of faculty disclosures, analyze and investigate potential conflicts, and attend meetings of and support the work of the University’s Conflict of Interest Committees.
• Administer special projects, perform research and analysis, assess needs, recommend appropriate action, and coordinate all efforts required for implementation. Research and prepare reports, correspondence, and publications on special project areas.
• Review and provide materials requested through the Freedom of Information Act related to Research Misconduct, FCOI, and FI‑COC.
• Assist with compliance of the Wayne State University (WSU) Research Misconduct Policy and Investigations; support faculty Research Misconduct Inquiry and Investigation committees; manage the collection of research records, help prepare for witness interviews and draft investigation reports.
• Organize and conduct compliance audits to assure compliance with federal, state and university regulations and policies; oversee the short‑and long‑term correction of errors discovered during compliance audits.
• Oversee the development and coordination of administrative and/or academic activities ensuring adherence to University policies and procedures; coordinate other staff members in the development of plans for departments; resolve administrative and academic policy problems.
• Audit compliance with management plans for FCOI and FI‑COC.
• Provide training in the use of FCOI and FI‑COC Software.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree; or undergraduate degree or equivalent experience in research compliance.
• Experience: Intermediate (3 to 4 years) job‑related experience.
• Considerable experience with research integrity in a university setting.
• Prior experience with export controls preferred.
• Experience leading cross‑functional teams with demonstrated success in achieving results.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Interpersonal Skills: Effective interpersonal skills. Ability to analyze and articulate complex issues, including scientific and ethical issues.
• Integrity/Honesty: Behaves in an honest, fair, and ethical manner; shows consistency in words and actions; models high standards of ethics. Must be able to maintain the strictest confidentiality.
• Computer Skills: Strong computer skills required. Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially spreadsheets, database, and reporting tools.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical skills including critical thinking, financial monitoring, and complex problem solving.

Employment Details

• School/College/Division: Division of Research & Innovation
• Primary department: H0905 - VP Research
• Employment type: Regular Employee
• Job type: Full Time
• Job category: Staff/Administrative
• Funding/salary information: Compensation type: Annual Salary
• Annual Salary: To be determined
• Working conditions: Normal office environment.
• Number of openings: 1
• Reposted position: No
• Background check requirements: University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

The university welcomes applications from persons with disabilities and veterans. Wayne State is an equal opportunity employer.