Assistant Director for Special Research Operations
Assistant Director for Special Research Operations
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Job Description
Position Function:
The National Strategic Planning & Analysis Research Center (NSPARC) at Mississippi State University is seeking an Assistant Director for Special Research Operations. This role is responsible for supporting the development and execution of unique often complex research initiatives ensuring that these special projects are completed on time within budget and in accordance with research objectives. The position requires strong analytical skills project management expertise budgeting and resource allocation abilities and proficiency in navigating varied research methodologies. This position will work closely with researchers stakeholders and administrative teams to drive high-impact research efforts that often involve multidisciplinary collaboration innovative problem-solving and advanced data analysis. The Assistant Director will also lead the development and submission of research proposals to secure funding for future special projects.
Salary Grade:18
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC these positions are Unclassified and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Oversee the design planning and execution of special research projects ensuring alignment with center priorities and funding requirements where applicable. Manage project timelines budgets and resource allocation to ensure efficient completion of multiple concurrent initiatives.
2. Work with the Executive Director and other designated senior center leadership to strategically align special research projects with NSPARCs long-term goals.
3. Develop standardized procedures to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of project execution and evaluate research project outcomes to assess impact effectiveness and areas for future improvement.
4. Lead and oversee applied research projects ensuring adherence to project timelines research objectives and deliverables. Manage multiple concurrent research initiatives while maintaining quality efficiency and compliance with funding requirements ensuring all completed work aligns with center standards guidelines and policies.
5. Develop and implement research designs ensuring the use of appropriate quantitative and qualitative methodologies for each project. Conduct data analysis interpretation and reporting while overseeing the development of research models frameworks and technical approaches to support research initiatives.
6. Communicate research findings and outcomes clearly through written reports presentations and executive summaries. Serve as a primary point of contact for external clients funding agencies and research partners.
7. Identify research funding opportunities and lead the development and submission of grant proposals contracts and sponsored research applications. Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to develop competitive funding proposals aligned with NSPARCs research strengths and the Executive Directors strategic direction.
8. Collaborate with center executives senior managers project managers and business office personnel to meet reporting requirements. Collect and prepare information for internal and external reports to ensure accurate project documentation.
9. Supervise research staff postdoctoral research associates graduate assistants and student researchers providing mentorship and professional development opportunities. Ensure compliance with ethical research standards university policies and federal/state regulations. Evaluate the performance of direct reports and recommend personnel actions as needed.
10. Perform related duties as assigned to support the overall mission and objectives of the center.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelors degree with focus in Sociology Economics or closely related field.
Five (5) years experience in Applied research project management and research leadership.
Preferred Qualifications:
Masters or Ph.D in Sociology Economics or Closely related field.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
Ability to lead and manage multiple research projects simultaneously.
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate unique research challenges.
Excellent stakeholder engagement and collaboration skills.
Ability to translate complex research findings into practical applications.
Knowledge of research compliance grant management and institutional policies.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
No unusual physical requirements. Requires no heavy lifting and nearly all work is performed in a comfortable indoor facility.
Frequent externally imposed deadlines; set and revised beyond ones control; interruptions influence priorities; difficult to anticipate nature or volume of work with certainty beyond a few days; irregular hours may be required; meeting deadlines and coordination of related activities are key to position; involves conflict-resolution or similar interactions involving emotional issues or stress on a regular basis.
Job frequently requires walking sitting reaching talking hearing handling objects with hands.
Job requires standing stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling and lifting up to 10 pounds.
Vision requirements: Ability to see information in print and/or electronically.
At this time MSU is unable to offer H-1B visa sponsorship for this role. This applies until further notice.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: should complete online application at and upload a cover letter and current resume.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment programs or activities based on race color ethnicity sex pregnancy religion national origin disability age sexual orientation genetic information status as a U.S. veteran or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance 231 Famous Maroon Band Street P.O. 6044 Mississippi State MS 39762 .
What do I do if I need an accommodation
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA) if you have a disability and wouldlike to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi StateUniversity please contact the Department of Human Resources Management attel: or.
If you have any questions regarding this policy contact the Department of Human ResourcesManagement ator. Upon request sections of thisjob listing are available in large print and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
Required Experience:
Director
Employment Type
Full-Time
