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Research Development Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

The Research and Development Engineer is responsible for planning and executing product and process development activities to support innovation, product performance, and readiness for verification ...

Role Summary The Research and Development Engineer is responsible for planning and executing product and process development activities to support innovation, product performance, and readiness for ...

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Research Development information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$48.1K

$101K

$163.7K

How much do research development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development in Columbia, MD is $101,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,900.00 and $115,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do research development professionals do?

Research development professionals support the planning, coordination, and management of research projects, often helping secure funding, develop proposals, and facilitate collaboration among researchers. They may also assist with grant writing, compliance, and project reporting, requiring strong organizational and communication skills. Their work typically occurs in academic, government, or industry research settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in research development?

To excel in Research Development, a strong background in scientific research, project management, and grant writing is typically required, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research administration software, funding databases, and compliance systems such as IRB protocols is highly beneficial. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills help professionals effectively manage complex projects and secure funding. These abilities are essential to drive innovation, streamline research processes, and support institutional or organizational growth.

What are the typical responsibilities of a research development professional?

Research Development professionals are primarily responsible for identifying funding opportunities, assisting with proposal preparation, and supporting strategic research initiatives. They often work closely with researchers, faculty, or scientists to develop competitive grant applications, ensure compliance with guidelines, and facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations. The role may also involve coordinating workshops or trainings, managing research portfolios, and tracking emerging trends in funding. Working in teams and liaising with administrative departments is common, fostering a collaborative and dynamic work environment that supports both individual and institutional research goals.

What is research development?

A Research Development job focuses on identifying funding opportunities, developing research proposals, and fostering collaborations to support research initiatives. Professionals in this role assist researchers in securing grants, managing research projects, and aligning proposals with funding agency priorities. They often work in universities, research institutions, or corporate R&D departments to facilitate innovation and strategic growth. Strong communication, project management, and analytical skills are essential for success in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Development jobs in Columbia, MD? The most popular types of Research Development jobs in Columbia, MD are:
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What job categories do people searching Research Development jobs in Columbia, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Research Development jobs in Columbia, MD are:
What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Research Development jobs? Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Research Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Development job openings in Columbia, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,020 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Clinical Research & Development Director

AstraZeneca

Gaithersburg, MD

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


AstraZeneca rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

What You Will Do

Externally recognized as a thought leader with deepexpertisein both clinical research and developmentwith deep understanding of autoimmune disease, specifically inflammatory myopathies,JIAand/or Sjogren's disease. Knowledge andexpertisein cell therapy is a plus.Drivethe integrated clinical research and development strategy and execution,to ensurevalue creation and regulatory/market success through innovative, cross-functional leadership. Operate independently and at scale, influencing both operational excellence and strategic direction at the highest organizational levels.

TypicalAccountabilities

Develop and align strategies andobjectivesfor Clinical Research & Development, ensuring they support AstraZeneca's global goals and product vision.
Lead and overseeexecution and delivery of clinical research & development studies, ensuring scientific rigor, commercial viability, and patient-centric focus throughout the drug lifecycle.
Lead the work with Line Managers toidentifyresource need and secure resources to ensure flexible andtimelyformation of the Clinical Research & Development Teams and progression of deliverables
Provide strategic and operational input to ensure implementation of best practices,new technologies, processes, and global clinical strategies.
Manage resource planning in collaboration with line managers, securing talent and flexible teams to support dynamic project requirements.
Oversee budgeting, timelines, contingency and risk management planning, and escalate operational or strategic issues as appropriate.
Lead the negotiation and management of contracts with CROs and external service providers.
Drive the preparation, review, and delivery of regulatory submission materials and activelyparticipatesin regulatorydefense/approval processes.
Has personal responsibility for creating a culture of courageous leadership,creativityand collaboration
Mentor, develop, and manage performance of line management and project teams, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and fostering succession planning.
Ensure all work is compliant with internal and external standards, including Safety, Health, Environment, and regulatory guidelines.

QualificationsandSkills

  • Essential:Advanced degree (Master's, PhD, or equivalent) in a scientific, medical, or health-related discipline;Extensive experience in both clinical research and clinical development within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry;Familiarity with the scientific and clinical community;Proven leadership experience managing cross-functional and/or senior project teams;Demonstrated success in strategy development and execution in both clinical research and clinical development environments;Strong knowledge of the drug development process, GCP/ICH guidelines, and relevant regulatory requirements;Significant operational experience in the planning, delivery, and oversight of clinical trials and regulatory submissions;Budgetary, resource, and risk management expertise on a global or regional scale;Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and ability to present to diverse stakeholders;Demonstrated ability to mentor, develop, and lead teams;Highly skilled in stakeholder engagement, negotiation, strategic influencing, and cross-functionalcollaboration;Commitment to compliance and safety, health, and environmental standards;Ability and willingness to travel nationally and internationally as required

  • Desirable:Experience as a recognized expert or thought leader within the business and wider industry;Project management certification or formal training;Experience in the introduction or implementation of new technologies or innovative approaches within clinical research or development;Experience in change management and process improvement initiatives;Experience managing complex organizational structures or leading in a global organizational context;Extensive familiarity with key therapeutic areas relevant to AstraZeneca's portfolio;Record of effective succession planning and leadership development within multi-level teams;Experience in successful regulatory defense and participation in external advisory boards or similar expert panels;Advanced negotiation and contracting experience with CROs or external service providers;Ability to identify and leverage emerging trends in drug development, technology, and scientific innovation

Key Relationship toReachSolutions

  • Internal:Study Delivery personnel; Data Management Centre representatives; Clinical Project Team and therapy area personnel; Clinical Development personnel; Clinical Pharmacology Units; Study Site personnel; Regional Monitoring personnel; Other SkillCentresas appropriate

  • External:External service providers;Investigators and scientists and patient advocacy groups; and external Alliance partners

Date Posted

09-Aug-2026

Closing Date

03-Sep-2026

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.


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