Job Description

The Research Project Manager (RPM) serves as an embedded partner within various large and/or complex research efforts, supporting the planning, coordination, and execution of complex, mission-driven research initiatives. The RPM provides structure without constraining innovation, applying fit-for-purpose project management approaches to support effective coordination, informed decision-making, and sustained progress across interconnected efforts.

Operating at the intersection of scientific discovery, project management, and research administration, the RPM partners closely with faculty researchers and cross-functional stakeholders to translate research vision into clear, actionable plans and establish shared understanding of scope, roles, priorities, and interdependencies. In doing so, the RPM plays a critical role in advancing research from concept to impact within a complex, values-driven research environment.

This role requires a high degree of independence, sound judgment, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-demand environment with competing priorities and evolving project needs. Success in this role depends on the ability to balance structure with flexibility and to lead through influence, communication, and strong working relationships.

Key Responsibilities

Project Planning and Execution

• Translate research aims into actionable project plans, including scope, milestones, timelines, and deliverables
• Plan, coordinate, and manage research programs and projects using appropriate project management methodologies and institutional processes
• Monitor project progress and ensure alignment with defined objectives while adapting to evolving research direction

Project Monitoring and Reporting

• Track progress across timelines, milestones, deliverables, and resources
• Analyze project data and prepare clear, actionable reports for PIs, institute leadership, and stakeholders
• Support informed decision-making through synthesis of project status, risks, and emerging needs

Stakeholder Coordination and Communication

• Serve as a central point of coordination across faculty, research teams, institute leadership, administrative offices, and external partners
• Lead and facilitate communication among diverse stakeholders to ensure alignment, clarity, and accountability
• Translate across scientific, operational, and administrative perspectives to support effective collaboration

Risk and Issue Management

• Identify risks, issues, and interdependencies across project components and across related initiatives
• Develop and implement mitigation strategies appropriate to complex and evolving research environments
• Support teams in navigating uncertainty, competing priorities, and shifting project conditions

Research Administration Integration

• Provide guidance and coordination related to research administration processes, compliance requirements, and operational workflows
• Ensure alignment with institutional policies, sponsor requirements, and key deadlines
• Partner with administrative units to support proposal, award, and reporting activities

Operational Effectiveness and Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve processes, tools, and workflows supporting research execution within various initiatives
• Contribute to development and adoption of best practices in research project management
• Enhance visibility, efficiency, and coordination across research initiatives

Complex and Collaborative Research Support

• Support large-scale, multi-institutional, or high-risk research initiatives
• Coordinate activities across internal and external partners with diverse roles and expectations
• Facilitate integration across scientific, operational, and administrative workstreams and across related initiatives

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• 5+ years of experience in project management
• Demonstrated experience managing complex, cross-functional projects
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects in environments characterized by ambiguity, evolving scope, and multiple stakeholders
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, and administrative partners
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment in dynamic environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree
• 5+ years of experience in research administration
• Certified Research Administrator (CRA), or related certification
• Experience working in a fast-paced, complex research or innovation environment
• Experience supporting research or scientific programs
• Experience with multi-institutional or sponsored research projects
• Familiarity with research compliance and funding environments

Position Details

• This role is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement
• Candidates are expected to reside in the local or regional area to support regular on-campus engagement for meetings, events, and key project activities

Additional Information

The Research Project Manager works closely with faculty investigators, institute leadership, and research teams within the Academy and engages regularly with administrative partners across the University.

This role requires a high level of professionalism, adaptability, and independent judgment to support complex, evolving research initiatives. The RPM must be comfortable operating in environments with ambiguity, shifting priorities, and multiple stakeholders.

• Salary is up to $80,000, commensurate with experience.
• Please supply resume and cover letter when submitting your application.
• Applications due by May 5, 2026.

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.