at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, United States
Job Description
Job Opening Id: 54309
Department: Research Analytics
Salary/Grade: EXS/13
Job Summary:
The Director of Research Analytics and Strategic Initiatives provides leadership for research analytics, strategic initiatives, and related projects within the Office for Research. This position serves as a central coordinator for complex research-related projects, using data-driven insights and structured project management practices to support institutional research priorities.
The Director partners with faculty, research administrators, academic leaders, and external stakeholders to develop, implement, and monitor strategic initiatives that advance the University's research mission. In addition to overseeing research analytics and reporting, this role facilitates collaboration across disciplines, coordinates project teams, establishes timelines and deliverables, manages stakeholder communications, and ensures successful execution of research-focused initiatives. This role also serves as the liaison for the Office of Research with other offices at the University that share the mission of data-driven decision making.
The Director of Research Analytics and Strategic Initiatives serves as a central coordinator for research-focused initiatives and collaborates extensively with Office for Research leadership, faculty, research administrators, academic leaders, and external stakeholders. The relationship-building, project coordination, and stakeholder engagement required for success in this role necessitate an on-campus presence of at least three days per week.
The Director of Research Analytics will support the OR mission and values of understanding empathy, modeling accountability, ensuring fairness, embracing community, and valuing creativity.
*Note: Not all aspects of the job are covered by this job description.
Specific Responsibilities:
Research Analytics and Decision Support
- Lead the development and delivery of research analytics, dashboards, and reports to support Office for Research and institutional decision-making.
- Analyze research performance metrics, funding trends, and other strategic indicators.
- Identify opportunities to leverage data to advance research growth and effectiveness.
- Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership and research stakeholders.
- Direct a team of two in support of team goals: a Senior Research Data Analyst and a Senior Digital Design professional.
Strategic Project Management
