Strategic Research Development Lead

Wayne State University; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Wayne State University in Detroit is seeking an experienced Research Development Officer in the Division of Research & Innovation to lead proposal development, strategic partnerships, and faculty support for competitive external funding.

The role collaborates with academic leaders, coordinates large-scale proposals, and builds connections with external partners to position teams for grant success while advancing the university’s research impact and community engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 7+ years’ experience in Research Development, proposal development, and/or grant writing in higher education.
• Experience with sponsored research administration, funders, and peer review processes.
• Experience in leading large-scale proposals (> $5 million) and coordinating partners.

Responsibilities

• Project management on large-scale proposals and coordinating materials.
• Provide grantsmanship guidance and develop templates for proposals.
• Coordinate with external partners and stakeholders for proposal submissions.
• Organize red team reviews and support faculty in securing external funding.
• Forecasting and strategic planning for proactively responding to funding opportunities.
• Track federal funding opportunities and communicate relevant options to the campus community.

Skills

Grant writing

Proposal development

Team collaboration

Facilitation

Education

Bachelor's degree

Ph.D. or advanced degree preferred

Job description

Wayne State University in Detroit is seeking an experienced Research Development Officer in the Division of Research & Innovation to lead proposal development, strategic partnerships, and faculty support for competitive external funding.

The role collaborates with academic leaders, coordinates large-scale proposals, and builds connections with external partners to position teams for grant success while advancing the university’s research impact and community engagement.