Job Description
Req Id:  33635
Job Title:  Director of Research
City:  West Lafayette
Job Description: 

-

The Director of Research will collaborate closely with the Department Head to advance the department’s research mission by designing and executing strategic initiatives that enhance competitiveness, foster industrial partnerships, and secure large-scale funding for transformative research programs. This role will prioritize building sustainable research environment, cultivating interdisciplinary collaborations, and driving workforce development to position the department as a leader in cutting-edge chemistry research.

 

About Us:

The Department of Chemistry has an outstanding record of accomplishment and innovation in research, education, outreach, and entrepreneurship. Our field offers extraordinary solutions during times of extraordinary challenge. Nearly every area of science, technology, and medicine has been revolutionized by fundamental discoveries at the molecular level.

 

When you join Purdue University, you join a community that keeps moving forward. For more than 150 years, we’ve been known for not only our groundbreaking work in STEM research, but also for our collective imagination, ingenuity and innovation. 

What We're Looking For:

Education and Experience Needed:

  • A master’s degree in Chemistry, Engineering, or related field 
  • Six (6) years of experience in academia, industry, or government, with a focus on strategic research program development  
  • Required experience includes:
    • Proven track record in securing funding for large-scale research initiatives (>$5M) and managing multi-institutional/industrial partnerships
    • Experience building consensus among various stakeholders (faculty, industry leaders, funding agencies) and driving organizational change
    • Experience in workforce development or STEM education program design
    • MBA or equivalent project management certification is an asset

 

Preferred:

  • PhD in Chemistry or Engineering 


Skills Needed:

  • Ability to translate scientific vision into actionable strategies for funding and partnerships
  • Expertise in designing sustainable research infrastructure and workforce development programs
  • Strong analytical skills to assess program impact and align initiatives with institutional goals
  • Exceptional communication and negotiation skills for engaging industry partners and federal agencies
  • Familiarity with intellectual property management and technology commercialization

 

Additional Information:

  • Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility:  Immediate Contribution by Purdue University   
  • Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days
     

Career Stream

Management 5

  • Pay Band S090
  • Job Code#20002581

Link to Purdue University's Compensation Guidelines: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/mngcareer/compguidelines/index.php 

 

Who We Are:

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

 

EOE / AA

Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. 

 

Posting Start Date:  4/18/25