ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, RESEARCH COLLABORATIONS, Federal Relations

Boston University (BU) Federal Relations seeks an Associate Director, Research Collaborations who will work with BU scholars as they pursue federal support for their research and scholarship. The Associate Director will serve as a liaison with federal scientific and cultural agencies, identify opportunities for BU investigators to secure extramural funding, and guide members of the BU community as they interact with federal research officials. The Associate Director will report to the Vice President of Federal Relations and collaborate with the University's Research and Government & Community Affairs offices to advance the University's federal priorities.

Join our team: we're looking for an experienced professional who comprehends how federal scientific and cultural agencies set priorities and is passionate about helping university scholars connect their research to national needs. BU is a leading private research and teaching institution with more than 3500 full-time faculty, 130 centers and institutes, and 1500 laboratories. Our scholars and students are at the forefront of innovation, successfully competing for more than $579 million in total research awards annually. BU research crosses disciplines, defies convention, and transcends borders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop a strategic plan that advances Boston University's research priorities, harnessing your experience in federal research policy and relationships with federal agency officials.
• Partner closely with federal officials and BU researchers to align research goals with shifting federal priorities, ensuring BU stays ahead of key trends and opportunities.
• Create impactful events and educational resources that enable BU investigators to align their research goals with federal government priorities and showcase their expertise with federal funders.
• Monitor and analyze federal legislative, budgetary, and regulatory actions, providing critical insights to guide the University's research priorities and strategic decision-making.
• Represent BU's research community at public meetings and events, raising awareness of BUs research expertise and fostering strong relationships with federal stakeholders.

Required Skills

A cover letter is required for consideration.

• Master's degree with three to five years of related experience.
• Understanding of how the federal government functions, with more than two years of experience working with executive branch science agencies or commensurate demonstrated experience.
• Experience devising and executing grant-seeking or regulatory strategies to advance a research goal.
• Knowledge of research funding mechanisms, compliance, and best practices in collaborative research.
• Ability to take initiative, problem solve, and work independently with good judgment about when to seek direction.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to express ideas clearly and concisely both verbally and in writing.
• Capacity to juggle different projects simultaneously, with consistent accuracy, follow-through, and timely completion of projects.
• Ability to recognize and protect confidential information and exercise tact, good judgment, and diplomacy in handling delicate situations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with university-based researchers.
• Experience with and passion for working with people with a wide array of backgrounds, identities, life experiences, and communication styles.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.