Research Development & Funding Architect

Virginia Tech; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech in Blacksburg seeks a Research Development Specialist to elevate interdisciplinary research initiatives, manage Destination Areas (DAs) and Research Frontiers projects, and coordinate external funding efforts.

The role serves as a nexus among ISCE, FLSI, ORI, and colleges, handling communication planning, budgeting, meetings, and reporting, while guiding project implementation and sustainability.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a STEM, social science, or affiliated field, or bachelor’s degree with significant experience.
• Experience with federal and non-federal proposal submissions and/or award administration.
• Experience supporting large, complex proposals and managing interdisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously, and to lead a proposal team, often under pressure, prioritizing tasks to meet tight due dates/milestones.
• Experience identifying potential opportunities for external funding using electronic and web tools.
• Strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate and elevate interdisciplinary research teams and manage DA and Research Frontiers initiatives.
• Serve as project manager for DA projects: plan, budget oversight, organize meetings, track goals and outcomes.
• Act as liaison among PI/leadership teams, FLSI, ISCE, Provost’s Office, ORI and other senior units.
• Develop strategic implementation plans using institutional and external data in coordination with institute directors and teams.
• Assemble and lead investigator and proposal support teams; educate faculty on funding pathways and execution.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Education

Master’s degree in STEM or social science or affiliated field

Bachelor’s degree with significant experience

Job description

Virginia Tech in Blacksburg seeks a Research Development Specialist to elevate interdisciplinary research initiatives, manage Destination Areas (DAs) and Research Frontiers projects, and coordinate external funding efforts.

The role serves as a nexus among ISCE, FLSI, ORI, and colleges, handling communication planning, budgeting, meetings, and reporting, while guiding project implementation and sustainability.