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Director Of Research Development Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Graceland University

Director of Development

Lamoni, IA · On-site

Director of Development; reports to Senior Director for Major Gifts Graceland University strives to provide a positive, vibrant working environment for employees. Position descriptions are essential ...

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Director Of Research Development information

What does a director of research development do?

A Director of Research Development oversees the planning, coordination, and implementation of research initiatives within an organization. They are responsible for identifying funding opportunities, managing research projects, and supporting faculty or staff in developing competitive proposals. This role often involves building collaborations, ensuring compliance with institutional and funding agency guidelines, and promoting a productive research environment. Directors of Research Development play a key role in advancing an organization’s research goals and enhancing its reputation.

How does a director of research development typically collaborate with faculty and external partners to advance research initiatives?

A Director of Research Development frequently serves as a bridge between faculty researchers and external partners, such as funding agencies, industry collaborators, and governmental organizations. This collaboration often involves identifying funding opportunities, facilitating proposal development, and ensuring alignment with both organizational goals and sponsor requirements. Directors provide strategic guidance, coordinate interdisciplinary teams, and help streamline communication, making it easier for researchers to focus on their scientific work while maximizing the institution's research impact. The role requires strong relationship-building skills and a proactive approach to fostering productive partnerships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of research development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Of Research Development, you need expertise in research management, grant writing, and strategic planning, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research administration platforms, funding databases, and compliance systems is crucial. Outstanding leadership, collaboration, and communication skills help foster partnerships and guide diverse research teams. These capabilities are essential for securing funding, driving innovation, and ensuring successful research program outcomes.

What is the difference between Director Of Research Development vs Research Scientist?

AspectDirector Of Research DevelopmentResearch Scientist
CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD preferred), leadership experienceTypically a PhD or Master's in relevant field
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, cross-department collaborationLaboratory or field research, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharma companiesUniversities, research labs, industry R&D
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on leadership, development, and strategyFocus on technical research and experimentation

The main difference is that the Director Of Research Development oversees research strategies and manages teams, while a Research Scientist conducts experiments and analyzes data. The director role involves leadership and planning, whereas the scientist role is more hands-on with research activities.

What are popular job titles related to Director Of Research Development jobs in Iowa?

For Director Of Research Development jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Of Research Development jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Of Research Development jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Director Of Research Development jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Director Of Research Development job openings:

Director Of Research Development jobs near you

Grants Manager - Research Development

Des Moines University

West Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Grants Manager - Research Development

Apply now Job no: 492998
Work type: FT
Location: West Des Moines
Categories: Staff

At Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences (DMU), you will make a meaningful contribution to the dynamic future of medicine and health sciences.

Des Moines University, in partnership with the national executive search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Grants Manager - Research Development.

This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative and strategic research administration professional to support the continued growth of DMU's expanding research enterprise. Reporting within the Office of Research, the Grants Manager - Research Development will play a key role in advancing institutional research initiatives through pre-award grant development, funding opportunity identification, faculty support, proposal coordination, and research capacity building.

This position works closely with faculty, staff, and university leadership to strengthen external funding efforts and promote a culture of research excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

Please note: This search is being conducted in partnership with Scott Healy & Associates. All candidate materials should be submitted directly to the search firm.

What You'll Do

  • Identify and disseminate external funding opportunities aligned with institutional priorities
  • Support faculty and research teams in proposal development and submission preparation
  • Coordinate grant application timelines, documentation, and internal review processes
  • Assist with proposal editing, formatting, and compliance review
  • Collaborate with faculty to strengthen competitiveness for external funding
  • Develop and deliver research development resources, workshops, and training
  • Build relationships across academic and administrative departments to support research growth initiatives
  • Monitor sponsor guidelines and emerging funding trends

What We Are Looking For

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in research administration, public administration, life sciences, communications, business, or a related field
  • Experience in grant development, research administration, sponsored programs, or higher education administration
  • Strong written communication, project coordination, and organizational skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a collaborative environment
  • Demonstrated ability to interpret sponsor guidelines and funding requirements

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in a related discipline
  • Experience supporting grant proposal development in an academic, healthcare, or research environment
  • Familiarity with federal sponsors including NIH, NSF, HRSA, DoD, or private foundations
  • Experience with electronic research administration systems and proposal submission platforms
  • Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or related certification preferred

Total Rewards

Our employees are what make DMU special, so we treat them well. Qualified faculty and staff enjoy a generous employer contribution toward medical coverage, a 10% retirement match, flexible work arrangements, community service time, tuition assistance, professional development funding, wellness resources, and generous paid time off.

To learn more about DMU benefits and culture, visit:
www.dmu.edu/employment

About DMU

Founded in 1898, Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences is a premier medical and health sciences institution offering multiple graduate degree programs across the Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, and Health Sciences.

In 2023, DMU relocated to a new 88-acre campus in West Des Moines, Iowa, featuring technology-rich educational spaces and expanded state-of-the-art research facilities designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

DMU's mission is to improve lives in our global community by educating diverse groups of highly competent and compassionate health professionals.

Application Process

All applications, nominations, and inquiries should be directed in confidence to:

Christopher S. Healy, President
Scott Healy & Associates
chris@scotthealy.com

Applications should include:

  • Cover letter
  • CV or resume
  • Contact information for three professional references

For full position details and application instructions, visit the Scott Healy & Associates search profile: Grants Manager - Research Development | Scott Healy & Associates

Applications received by July 6, 2026 will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Position Description

Advertised: 21 May 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close:

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