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Director Research Development Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

About the Role Argenta is seeking a Research & Development Analytical Scientist to join our Global ... At Argenta, we are building a culture of ownership where our people play a direct role in shaping ...

About the Role Argenta is seeking a Research & Development Analytical Scientist to join our Global ... At Argenta, we are building a culture of ownership where our people play a direct role in shaping ...

About the Role Argenta is seeking a Research & Development Analytical Scientist to join our Global ... At Argenta, we are building a culture of ownership where our people play a direct role in shaping ...

Medical Monitor

Lenexa, KS · On-site

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Medical Director, Clinical Research & Development at ICON, you will provide medical leadership and strategic direction to clinical development programs. We are looking for a board certified ...

R&D Technician II

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

R&D Technician II The success of a company depends on the passionate people we partner with ... direct manager when required • Maintain regular inter- and intradepartmental communication in ...

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Showing results 1-20

Director Research Development information

See Kansas salary details

$58.4K

$145.1K

$191.7K

How much do director research development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for director research development in Kansas is $145,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,400.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director research development do?

A Director of Research Development leads and manages the planning, coordination, and execution of research strategies within an organization. They are responsible for identifying funding opportunities, fostering collaborations, and overseeing proposal development to secure grants and support research initiatives. Additionally, they work with faculty or research teams to ensure compliance with regulations and alignment with institutional goals, while supporting innovation and the growth of research programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director research development?

To thrive as a Director of Research Development, you need advanced expertise in research methodologies, project management, and grant writing, usually backed by a graduate degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research administration software, funding databases, and compliance systems is essential, along with certifications like CRA (Certified Research Administrator) being advantageous. Strategic thinking, leadership, and excellent communication skills are critical for building collaborations and guiding multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for securing funding, ensuring research integrity, and driving innovative projects to successful completion.

How does a director research development typically collaborate with other departments to drive innovation within an organization?

A Director of Research Development often works closely with cross-functional teams such as product management, engineering, marketing, and executive leadership to align research initiatives with organizational goals. This role involves facilitating communication between departments, ensuring that research projects support strategic objectives, and integrating insights from various stakeholders. Effective collaboration helps drive innovation, as the Director ensures that research outcomes are actionable and directly contribute to product or service enhancements. Regular meetings, joint project planning sessions, and clear reporting structures are common practices to maintain alignment and foster a culture of innovation.

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

AspectDirector Research DevelopmentResearch Scientist
CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD preferred), leadership experienceTypically a PhD or Master's degree in a relevant field
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, team management, cross-department collaborationLaboratory or field research, data analysis, experimentation
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, corporate R&DUniversities, research labs, industry R&D
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in research developmentDetails about research-focused roles and career paths

The main difference between a Director Research Development and a Research Scientist lies in their responsibilities and focus. The Director oversees strategic planning, manages teams, and collaborates across departments, while the Research Scientist conducts experiments, analyzes data, and advances scientific knowledge. Both roles require advanced degrees, but the Director typically has more leadership experience and works in a broader strategic context.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Development jobs in Kansas?

The most popular types of Research Development jobs in Kansas are:

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

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

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Director Research Development jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Director Research Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Research Development job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $145,110 per year, or $69.8 per hour.

Research & Development Transformation Manager

Argenta

Shawnee, KS • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

At Argenta, we partner with our customers to take animal health solutions from molecule to market. Our teams combine deep scientific expertise with world-class manufacturing capabilities to deliver innovative therapies that improve the lives of animals around the world.


About the Role


Argenta is seeking a Research & Development Transformation Manager to join our US CRO & CDO leadership team. This role will act as a strategic transformational thinker, strengthening operational cross collaboration, and compliance to improve performance, enhance quality and poise Argenta for the future.


Working closely with business unit leadership as well as the Head of Americas CRO, you will help transform individual business units into one operational structure, lead initiatives, and strengthen relationships to ensure consistent deliverables.


This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic and operational leader who thrives in complex environments and enjoys turning strategy into meaningful outcomes.


Key Responsibilities


  • Translate strategy into clear, prioritized execution plans that drive operational performance and alignment across business units and functions.
  • Lead transformation initiatives that improve operational effectiveness, execute discipline, and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Apply operational excellence and continuous improvement methodologies to simplify processes and reduce operational complexity.
  • Help to improve current business unit performance dashboards, KPIs, and reporting frameworks to enable data-driven decision-making.
  • Foster strong collaboration across Operations within individual business units, and shared services to improve organizational effectiveness and performance.


About You


  • Bachelor's degree in science related field, advanced degree preferred.
  • 10+ years' experience within CRO, pharmaceutical, biologics, or animal health industry.
  • Demonstrated success leading transformational initiatives, operational excellence, or financial growth.
  • High financial and business acumen with the ability to interpret performance data and inform strategic decisions.
  • Exceptional communication skills with strong executive presence and the ability to influence across a matrixed organization.
  • Strong analytical and organizational capability with the ability to bring structure and clarity to complex environments.

Why Join Argenta?


At Argenta, we are building a culture of ownership where our people play a direct role in shaping the future of the organization. You will work alongside passionate experts across science, manufacturing and commercial functions to deliver life-changing outcomes for animals worldwide.


We offer the opportunity to work within a growing, global business where your leadership and expertise will have a meaningful impact on performance, transformation, and long-term success.


We areOne Argenta- working together across teams, disciplines and geographies to create meaningful impact.