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Director Research Development Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Development Director

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$70 - $75/hr

Deputy Director & CEO The Equity Alliance (TEA) and The Equity Alliance Fund (TEAF) are seeking a ... Lead grant research, writing, submission, and reporting in alignment with organizational priorities

New

Development Director

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Deputy Director & CEO The Equity Alliance (TEA) and The Equity Alliance Fund (TEAF) are seeking a ... Lead grant research, writing, submission, and reporting in alignment with organizational priorities

Development Director

Nashville, TN ยท Hybrid

$70K - $75K/yr

Deputy Director & CEO The Equity Alliance (TEA) and The Equity Alliance Fund (TEAF) are seeking a ... Lead grant research, writing, submission, and reporting in alignment with organizational priorities

Showing results 21-40

Director Research Development information

See Tennessee salary details

$59.4K

$147.7K

$195.1K

How much do director research development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for director research development in Tennessee is $147,676.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,500.00 and $176,100.00 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Director Research Development job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,676 per year, or $71 per hour.

Development Director

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

Nashville, TN โ€ข On-site

$81K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is a leading healthcare nonprofit organization like no other. For decades, we have been taking major steps and pioneering new ways to advance the mission to find a cure for cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with CF the opportunity to lead long, fulfilling lives by funding research and drug development, partnering with the CF community, and advancing high-quality, specialized care.

By joining the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to our core values and working towards a cure for cystic fibrosis. We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by CF. Learn more about why work at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Position Summary:

The Development Director is responsible for leading and executing the chapter's fundraising efforts, with a strong emphasis on individual giving, corporate partnerships, special events, volunteer and donor recruitment & cultivation, and community engagement. This role ensures alignment with organization and department policies and procedures, maintains accurate donor data in the CRM system, and drives revenue growth to support the area and chapter's goals.
Joining the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation provides an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause and shape the culture of a leading nonprofit organization. If you have a desire to do impactful work, while supporting a mission and making a difference, we invite you to apply.
This role requires regular travel between the Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville offices to support events, team collaboration, and market engagement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Accountable for achieving fundraising budgets & volunteer leadership goals. Plan, execute, and evaluate fundraising events.

  • Develop event budgets, sponsorship packages, and growth strategies to maximize revenue and engagement.

  • Lead donor moves management by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding individual and institutional donors.

  • Recruit and maintain strong relationships with board members, donors, volunteers, and community partners to support fundraising efforts.

  • Develop and implement strategies for donor retention and growth, including personalized outreach, and recognition.

  • Communicate, educate, and raise awareness about CF and the Foundation's mission to people with CF, families, and community members.

  • Collaborate with Field Marketing Partner to manage external marketing & communications.

  • Follow all organizational and departmental policies, procedures, and ethical standards related to fundraising and donor relations.

  • Ensure fundraising activities align with department, area and chapter goals, and strategic priorities.

  • Provide accurate forecasting of revenue and expenses for events.

KNOWLEDGE,SKILLS,AND ABILITIES:

  • Four-year college degree preferred or equivalent combination of education, skills, and experience.

  • Minimum of 4 years related non-profit experience.

  • Ability to work nights and weekends as needed.

  • Strong volunteer management experience.

  • Strong attention to detail, organizational, financial and planning skills.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

  • Reports to the Executive Director. No direct reports.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Work nights and weekends, as necessary.

  • Reliable transportation and ability to travel to meetings or events.

  • Sitting, bending, reaching, and walking.

  • Some heavy lifting may be required.

  • This role requires regular travel between the Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville offices to support events, team collaboration, and market engagement.


The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements.

This position will be posted for a minimum of 5 days or until the position is filled. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, so candidates are encouraged to apply promptly if interested.

The salary range is $81,800.00 to $92,070.00. Specific salary varies based on geographic location and is commensurate with experience.

Total Rewards: The CF Foundation is committed to offering competitive compensation (base pay and incentive), benefits, time off and professional development opportunities that maximize our ability to recruit, retain, reward, and motivate a highly qualified and diverse workforce. Visit ourWhy Work at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundationfor detailed total rewards information.

The CF Foundation is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to being an employer of choice, not just a good place to work, but a great and inclusive place to work. We strive to recruit and maintain a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, physical or mental disability, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or testing, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran or any characteristic protected by law.

Reasonable Accommodations: The CF Foundation is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or would like to request an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at HROps@cff.org.