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Job Summary/Basic Function:
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The Assistant Director leads day-to-day operations, staff, and initiatives toward advancing Boise State’s research enterprise through integrated programmatic sustainability, research development, education, and training efforts. The Assistant Director provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and cross-campus coordination to build and sustain research capacity, streamline and improve administrative and operational processes, and design and implement scalable systems, tools, and programs. These efforts collectively enhance institutional competitiveness in securing extramural funding, conducting high-impact research, and navigating the research lifecycle efficiently and effectively. The Assistant Director ensures these efforts are integrated, strategically aligned with CRCA, DRED, and University research priorities, and continually refined to meet evolving needs across Boise State’s research ecosystem. There are two Assistant Director openings in the Center for Research and Creative Activity—one focused on support for and leadership of the Research Project Management Group (RPMG) and related programmatic sustainability initiatives, and the other focused on support for and leadership of Research Development, Education, and Training. Skills and expertise required for these roles vary and are broken out below.
This is an internal opportunity open only to current, benefit-eligible employees of Boise State University.
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Level Scope:
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Provides direct supervision typically to professionals or skilled technical employees at the entry or intermediate level. Functions as advisor to unit and administration and sets goals and objectives for team members for achievement of operational results. Analyzes and resolves problems through drawing from prior experiences. Interprets policies (e.g., fiscal management, HR, contracts and grants, resource management in defined areas) and demonstrates solid subject matter knowledge. Exercises judgment within defined procedures and policies to determine appropriate action. Supervises staff to assure accountability and stewardship of campus resources (operational, financial, and human) in compliance with departmental goals and objectives.
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Essential Functions:
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60% — Integrated Research Support Leadership (both roles share these responsibilities for their assigned areas):
- Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for research support programs, ensuring alignment with institutional research priorities.
- Develop, implement, and refine scalable systems, processes, resources, and services that strengthen research capacity, streamline administrative processes, and enhance institutional competitiveness in securing extramural funding, conducting high-impact research, and navigating the research lifecycle efficiently and effectively.
- Oversee the creation, delivery, and continuous improvement of tools, training, communications, and resources supporting research development, project management, process improvement, and/or proposal preparation.
- Assess campus needs and identify gaps in research support services; use data, metrics, and stakeholder input to inform strategy and program development.
- Collaborate with internal and external partners—including faculty, staff, leadership, and cross-unit teams—to coordinate efforts, streamline workflows, and improve service delivery.
- Lead or contribute to the planning, development, and execution of high-impact research initiatives, projects, or proposal efforts, including complex, interdisciplinary, or multi-institutional collaborations.
- Monitor research and sponsor landscapes, regulatory changes, and emerging trends to keep programs current and responsive.
- Develop and manage communication, outreach, engagement, and change-management strategies to increase awareness and impact of research support services.
- Ensure delivery of high-quality support services across the research lifecycle, including problem resolution, customer service excellence, and operational consistency.
30% — Staff Leadership and Operational Management
- Supervise, coach, and mentor staff; provide performance management, workload oversight, and professional development.
- Establish and maintain service standards, internal controls, operational metrics, and accountability structures for program staff.
- Oversee recruitment, onboarding, retention, and evaluation of team members.
- Ensure staff are equipped with training, tools, and guidance necessary to support a broad range of research activities and faculty needs.
- Guide team members in problem resolution, customer service, and research project support best practices.
- Maintain and enhance digital tools, project management systems, research development resources, education modules, and/or communication platforms.
- Collaborate with CRCA leadership to forecast resource needs, develop staffing models, and strengthen center-wide operational capacity.
10% — DRED/Center-related initiatives
- Contribute to strategic initiatives, cross-unit collaborations, committee work, and center-wide projects that advance CRCA, DRED, and University research priorities.
- Support implementation of the DRED strategic plan and the University Blueprint for Success.
- Provide advising and input on policies, planning efforts, and long-term strategies that sustain and strengthen research support services.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
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Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
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Below are skill sets aligned with each role, followed by shared competencies:
Assistant Director for Programmatic Sustainability competencies
- Knowledge of state, federal, and standard non/for-profit regulatory compliance requirements related to research administration.
- Expert knowledge of project management principles, research methodologies, emerging tools, and best practices for supporting complex research projects.
- Experience with program sustainability, process improvement, and organizational development practices.
- Experience with data collection, data quality, dashboards, and analytics.
- Ability to develop scalable processes and structures for project management and operational support.
Assistant Director for Research Development, Education, and Training competencies
- Deep knowledge of federal and non-federal research funding landscapes and sponsor priorities.
- Expertise in research development strategy, grantsmanship, proposal planning, and multi-institutional submissions.
- Ability to design professional development programming, workshops, and research-focused training.
- Strong written communication skills related to proposal narratives and faculty coaching.
- Ability to identify research development needs and design strategic programming.
Shared Competencies
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with faculty, staff, and leadership.
- Ability to conceptualize and implement strategic programs aligned with institutional priorities.
- Proven ability to analyze complex problems and lead teams under tight timelines.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and implement programs at scale.
- Ability to design and refine systems, processes, and resources to meet evolving needs.
- Skill in supervising, mentoring, and developing staff.
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Minimum Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s Degree and 2 years of experience.
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Preferred Qualifications:
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Master’s Degree or equivalent plus 7 years of experience including managerial experience.
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Salary and Benefits:
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Salary range is $89,065.60 to $111,342.40 annually and is commensurate with experience. Boise State University provides a best-in-class benefits package, including (but not limited to):
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Required Application Materials:
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Resume and cover letter.
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About Us:
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Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.
Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.
Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/
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