Research Manager

University of Washington; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 137,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Washington seeks a Research Manager (Director of People and Programs) to lead the Merkel Cell Carcinoma Collaborative (MC3) and Nghiem Lab. You will direct strategic planning, oversee staff, budgets, philanthropy, and outreach to advance cancer research outcomes.

The role manages ~15 staff across research and administration, collaborates with the dermatology department and funding partners, and represents MC3 in national and international forums.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field.
• Three years of relevant professional experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic direction and operational planning for MC3 and Nghiem Lab.
• Oversee people programs including workforce planning, recruitment, onboarding, retention and performance management.
• Manage budgets, grants, philanthropy, and donor relations in collaboration with finance.
• Provide operational oversight for MC3 programs, including the MCC patient database and training programs.
• Represent MC3 at national and international conferences and coordinate outreach.

Skills

Strategic planning

People management

Funding opportunities

Communication

Team leadership

Recruitment

Employee relations

Program administration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related field

Job description

Job Description

The Department of Dermatology has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Manager (Business Title: Director of People and Programs) to join their team.

About This Opportunity

The Research Manager, with the business title of Director of People and Programs, provides strategic and operational leadership for the Merkel Cell Carcinoma Collaborative (MC3) and the Nghiem Lab. The position oversees a complex portfolio of research programs and projects, with responsibility for strategic planning, personnel management, financial operations, philanthropy, educational outreach, communications, clinical research database initiatives, and external partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning – 20%

• Partner with the Principal Investigator and MC3 leadership to establish strategic direction, identify program priorities, and develop and implement operational plans supporting the long-term sustainability and growth of MC3 and the Nghiem Lab.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities for new and ongoing research initiatives and develop collaborations with academic and industry partners to expand research capabilities and support improved patient outcomes.

People Programs – 30%

• Provide leadership and oversight for people programs across MC3 and the Nghiem Lab, including workforce planning, recruitment, onboarding, retention, performance management, professional development, and employee relations in partnership with Department of Dermatology administration.
• Manage approximately 15 research and administrative staff, including Research Scientists, Research Coordinators, and Research Student Trainees; establish expectations, provide feedback and development opportunities, address performance and workplace concerns, and promote effective team operations.

Financial Management – 10%

• Collaborate with finance teams to monitor grants, contracts, philanthropic funds, and other funding sources; review program financial needs and adjust budgets and allocations as appropriate to support research priorities.
• Oversee philanthropic and grant-funded initiatives to ensure compliance with applicable donor and grantor requirements and represent the programs in discussions with funding partners regarding financial and programmatic activities.

MC3 Program Administration – 40%

• Provide operational oversight for the MC3 research program, including the MCC patient database, ensuring data integrity and supporting its use in research and clinical publications.
• Oversee the Clinical Research Fellowship and Undergraduate Research Assistant Training Program, including recruitment, program administration, training, and coordination of program activities.
• Lead and coordinate educational and outreach initiatives, including the Merkel CELLebration Dinner and Multicenter Merkel Interest Group Meeting, and represent MC3 at national and international conferences, workshops, and other professional forums.
• Serve as a primary liaison among research teams, UW Dermatology, funding organizations, academic and industry collaborators, and other external partners to support effective communication and coordination across programs.
• Oversee MC3 communications and outreach activities, including website content, newsletters, and other initiatives that advance program visibility, engagement, and collaboration.
• This position manages approximately 15 employees.

Required Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field. Equivalent experience does not substitute for the degree requirement.
• Three years of relevant professional experience.

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department.

Additional Qualifications

• Experience leading a large, multidisciplinary team and applying effective leadership practices, including providing feedback, aligning organizational values with day-to-day practices, actively listening, demonstrating empathy, and managing difficult conversations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated success building and maintaining collaborative partnerships.
• Experience fostering an environment that supports professional growth, employee well-being, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Demonstrated ability to present effectively to a wide range of audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and communicate an organizational vision that engages and inspires team members and collaborators.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, program management, and collaboration with philanthropic entities.
• Demonstrated alignment with MC3’s values of education, integrity, collaboration, and transformative science focused on improving patient outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ten or more years of professional experience in oncology research or clinical care.
• Three or more years of experience in a senior management or leadership position.
• Knowledge of Merkel cell carcinoma.
• Experience managing complex research programs involving multiple projects, funding sources, and external collaborations.
• Experience working within an academic research or academic medical environment.

About The Team

The Merkel Cell Carcinoma Collaborative (MC3) and the Nghiem Lab bring together research, clinical, educational, and collaborative initiatives focused on Merkel cell carcinoma. The programs work with academic, clinical, philanthropic, and industry partners to advance research and improve outcomes for patients affected by Merkel cell carcinoma.

The Director of People and Programs plays a central leadership role in supporting the people, infrastructure, partnerships, and operational strategy necessary to advance this work.

Compensation, Benefits And Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$71,484.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum

$136,668.00 annual

Benefits

Other Compensation:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent)

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit

Not Applicable

About The UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [e-mail].

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.