Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development

Brown University; Providence (RI); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University is seeking a Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development to assess the long-term impact of seed funding on external funding success. The role involves designing robust research methodologies and providing data-driven recommendations to inform funding strategies.

The RD Scientist will collaborate with the Office of Research Strategy and Development and other centers, operating in a strategic capacity within the Office of the Provost.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree and five years of experience or PhD required.
• Extensive experience with quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
• Experience in research analysis, data analytics, program evaluation, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Assess long-term impact of research development activities and seed funding on external funding success.
• Design and execute research methodologies to evaluate seed funding programs.
• Translate data into clear, actionable recommendations for funding strategies.
• Collaborate with the Office of Research Strategy and Development and other centers.

Skills

Quantitative analysis

Qualitative analysis

Program evaluation

Data analytics

RFP evaluation

Scientific communication

Education

Master’s degree + 5 years experience or PhD

Tools

Excel

Databases

Job description

About Brown

Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.

Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more. To learn about Brown University’s benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page for further information.

About the Opportunity

The Office of the Provost works in close collaboration with the University’s academic leadership, and with the senior officers reporting to the provost, including: the Dean of the Faculty, Dean of the College, Dean of the Graduate School, Dean of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Dean of the School of Public Health, Sorensen Family Dean of Engineering, Dean of the School of Professional Studies, Vascellaro Family Dean of the Watson School of International and Public Affairs, Dean of the Division of Pre-College and Undergraduate Programs, Vice President for Research, the Joukowsky Family University Librarian, Associate Provost of Enrollment, and Chief Financial Officer.

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Office of the Provost, the role of the Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development is to assess the long-term impact of research development activities, with a particular emphasis on internal seed funding on the subsequent external funding success of academic research projects. This role will involve designing and executing comprehensive research methodologies to evaluate the effectiveness of seed funding programs and processes throughout the University, identifying key success factors, and providing data-driven insights to inform future funding strategies. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, possess strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of research development and research funding landscapes, and the ability to translate complex data into clear and actionable recommendations.

The Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development (RD Scientist) serves in a strategic role as part of the Office of the Provost and will collaborate with the Office of Research Strategy and Development (responsible for the university’s central seed grant program) and other centers and institutes that run independent seed grant programs.

This is a one-year, fixed term position with potential for extension based on budget and University need.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Master’s degree and five years of experience or PhD required. Extensive experience with quantitative and qualitative data analysis is required.
• Experience in research analysis, data analytics, program evaluation, or a related field, preferably within an academic or research institution.

Job Competencies

• Excellent qualitative and quantitative research skills including skills in associated tools for data organization and analysis
• Knowledge of program evaluation best practices
• Aptitude for analyzing RFPs and interacting with university faculty
• Knowledge of federal and private research funding organizations and eligibility requirements
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently, coordinating and prioritizing multiple projects
• Strong customer service skills; skilled in the use of tact and diplomacy
• Experience in handling confidential and/or sensitive information
• Advanced knowledge of and experience in creating databases and excel spreadsheets

Salary Grade

11

Recruiting Start Date

2026-04-07

Job Posting Title

Senior Staff Scientist - Research Development

Department

Office of the Provost

Grade

Grade 11

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Position Work Location

Hybrid

Submission Guidelines

The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.

Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.

Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Brown is an E-Verify Employer

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

EEO Statement

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.