Summary

Manages and leads the integrated support activities for a scientific research laboratory or program devoted to the execution of a range of related, specialized, and innovative research initiatives of significant scientific stature. Coordinates collaborative research projects; develops research concepts and protocols; guides, leads and/or oversees the work of research staff; and establishes and manages research technology and facilities; develops and administers program budgets and funding, and oversees the day-to-day administration of the unit.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Provides organizational leadership and coordination in the establishment of a range of collaborative laboratory and/or field research projects involving other university departments and/or external research entities.
2. Designs and implements new research concepts, protocols, and procedures within field of professional specialty, applying diversified knowledge of relevent scientific principles, practices, and methods.
3. Maintains current knowledge of technological developments and trends in area of specialty; identifies current and future technology needs, and introduces and establishes innovative technology to directly support on-going research activities.
4. Collects, analyzes, and interprets data; prepares statistical and narrative reports and/or graphs, as appropriate to the specific position; prepares manuscripts for publication; presents research results to scientific conferences and other groups.
5. Provides supervision, and leadership to technical staff engaged in the execution of research protocol and in the operation of scientific research equipment and technology.
6. Provides technical expertise, consultation, and leadership to scientific professionals and collaborators within area of specialty.
7. Prepares grant proposals and manages contracts and grants for various projects.
8. Participates in the department's financial planning; coordinates the preparation of operating budgets and projections, and monitors and controls expenditures against budget.
9. Oversees and coordinates the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the program's equipment, instrumentation, and facilities; ensures compliance with environmental, safety, and infection control regulations and standards.
10. Participates in development, implementation and maintenance of policies, objectives, short-and long-range planning; develops and implements projects and programs to assist in accomplishment of established goals.
11. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
• Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Ability to manage multiple research projects.
• Skill in budget preparation and fiscal management.
• Ability to use independent judgment to develop model concepts and approaches for research.
• Ability to develop scientific reports and manuscripts based on original research.
• Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.
• Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
• Knowledge of laws, regulations, methods, and techniques in area of specialty.
• Ability to develop, plan, and implement short- and long-range goals.
• Knowledge and understanding of scientific research methodology, principles, and procedures within the specified area of specialty.
• Knowledge of current and developing trends in research technology within area of professional expertise.
• Knowledge of contracts and grants preparation and management.
• Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Ability to provide technical advice, guidance, and support to professional staff in area of specialty.
• Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
• Ability to organize and coordinate collaborative research projects.
• Ability to set up, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot technologically advanced scientific research and/or test equipment.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

• Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
• Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
• Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 03/20/2017