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Research Development Manager Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Astrix Inc

R&D Manager (OTC/Formulations)

Columbus, IN · On-site

Pay Rate Low: 90000 | Pay Rate High: 130000 R&D Manager (Chemistry) Columbus, IN $90,000 - $130,000 + Benefits Monday-Friday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM We are seeking a hands-on R&D Manager to lead research ...

IP Corporation

Business Development Manager

South Bend, IN · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, MOLDING PRODUCTS Location: South Bend, IN - Remote with extensive ... Our operating companies, Interplastic Corporation, North American Composites, HK Research, and ...

IP Corporation

Business Development Manager

South Bend, IN · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, MOLDING PRODUCTS Location: South Bend, IN - Remote with extensive ... Our operating companies, Interplastic Corporation, North American Composites, HK Research, and ...

Astrix Inc

R&D Manager

Columbus, IN · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Lead R&D projects from idea to implementation. * Supervise and mentor chemists or lab technicians ... Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously. *This is a complete list of all desired ...

Astrix Inc

R&D Manager

Columbus, IN · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Lead R&D projects from idea to implementation. * Supervise and mentor chemists or lab technicians ... Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously. *This is a complete list of all desired ...

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All JobsResearch Development JobsResearch Development Manager JobsResearch Development Manager Jobs in Indiana

Research Development Manager information

See Indiana salary details

$46.2K

$96.9K

$157K

How much do research development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development manager in Indiana is $96,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,700.00 and $110,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research development manager?

A Research Development Manager is a professional responsible for supporting and enhancing research activities within an organization, typically in academic, scientific, or corporate settings. They help identify funding opportunities, facilitate collaborations, and provide strategic guidance to researchers during grant proposal development. Their role often includes managing research projects, ensuring compliance with regulations, and helping translate research ideas into successful funding applications. Research Development Managers play a critical role in advancing the organization's research agenda and maximizing funding success.

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

To thrive as a Research Development Manager, you need strong project management, grant writing, and analytical skills, usually supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research administration software, funding databases, and compliance systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, collaboration, and strategic thinking abilities help you build partnerships and lead cross-functional teams effectively. These skills are crucial for securing research funding, ensuring compliance, and advancing organizational research goals.

What are some common challenges faced by research development managers, and how can they be addressed?

Research Development Managers often navigate challenges such as balancing multiple complex projects, securing funding, and coordinating across diverse teams. To address these, strong organizational skills and proactive communication are essential. Building robust relationships with researchers, administrators, and external partners helps streamline collaboration, while staying updated on funding opportunities can increase success rates for grant proposals. Regularly attending professional development workshops also helps managers stay current with best practices in research administration.

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

AspectResearch Development ManagerResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a master's or Ph.D. in a relevant field, along with project management experienceUsually holds a master's or Ph.D. in a specific scientific discipline
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, and coordinates research efforts within organizationsConducts experiments, analyzes data, and develops new scientific knowledge
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in R&D departments across industries like pharmaceuticals, tech, and manufacturingFound in laboratories, research institutes, and academic settings

The Research Development Manager focuses on overseeing research projects, managing teams, and aligning research goals with organizational strategies. In contrast, the Research Scientist primarily conducts experiments and generates scientific data. Both roles require advanced degrees, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

Is a research development manager a good job?

A research development manager oversees research projects and coordinates efforts to innovate and improve products or services. The role typically requires strong project management, communication skills, and knowledge of research methodologies, with employment prospects often stable in industries like technology, healthcare, and academia.

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

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

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Research Development Manager jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Research Development Manager job openings:

Research Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Manager job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,863 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

R&D Manager - Pharmaceuticals

Columbus, IN

Applied Laboratories, Inc.
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Applied Laboratories, Inc.external

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Applied Laboratories, Inc. is a family-owned pharmaceutical manufacturer located in Columbus, Indiana. For more than 40 years, we have developed, manufactured, and packaged over-the-counter healthcare products for customers across the United States and internationally. We pride ourselves on quality, innovation, continuous improvement, and creating an environment where employees can make a meaningful impact.

We are seeking an experienced and motivated R&D Manager to lead product development initiatives, provide technical leadership, and help drive the future growth of our Research & Development function.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on chemist who enjoys solving technical challenges, developing new products, mentoring others, and working closely with leadership to bring ideas from concept to commercialization.

What You'll Do
  • Lead product development and formulation projects from concept through implementation
  • Supervise, mentor, and develop a small team of R&D professionals
  • Design experiments, analyze results, and provide technical recommendations
  • Develop and improve formulations, products, and manufacturing processes
  • Troubleshoot technical and formulation challenges
  • Collaborate with Quality, Regulatory, and Operations teams
  • Prioritize projects and resources to support business objectives
  • Present findings and recommendations to leadership and customers
  • Ensure compliance with laboratory, safety, quality, and regulatory requirements
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry or a related scientific field
  • 5+ years of chemistry experience in manufacturing, industrial, product development, or research environments
  • Leadership, project lead, or supervisory experience
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills
Preferred
  • Product development or formulation experience
  • Experience in pharmaceutical, OTC, personal care, or other regulated manufacturing environments
  • Knowledge of quality and regulatory compliance requirements
  • Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously
Why Join Applied Laboratories?
  • Opportunity to lead high-impact R&D projects
  • Direct visibility and interaction with company leadership
  • Meaningful influence on product innovation and business growth
  • Hands-on technical role with leadership responsibilities
  • Stable, family-owned company with a collaborative culture
  • Professional growth and development opportunities

If you're looking for an opportunity where your technical expertise, leadership abilities, and ideas will make a real impact, we'd love to hear from you.