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Research Manager Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Clinical Research Manager Job Summary: The School Mental Health Collaborative (SMHC), a research center within the University of Wisconsin - Madison's School of Education, is seeking a Clinical ...

Research Services Manager Job Summary: The Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School of Medicine & Public Health is seeking a Research Services Manager (RSM) who will serve ...

Clinical Trials Research Coordinator

Madison, WI · On-site

$24.50 - $32.50/hr

The primary duties of this job involve the management of clinical research trial activity for subjects enrolled in a variety of clinical research studies. Individuals hired at the Clinical Research ...

Senior Researcher

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$75K - $105K/yr

Manage research and development projects and tasks, including coordinating with cross-functional teams, and reporting results internally, to clients, and to the broader industry. Responsible for all ...

As the Research & Development Manager, you will lead the R&D function and team, providing technical and people leadership across new product development, commercialization, product lifecycle ...

As the Research & Development Manager, you will lead the R&D function and team, providing technical and people leadership across new product development, commercialization, product lifecycle ...

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Showing results 1-20

Research Manager information

See Madison, WI salary details

$50.4K

$99.3K

$174.8K

How much do research manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for research manager in Madison, WI is $99,321.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $115,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research manager do?

A research manager is responsible for the management and coordination of internal and external research and projects. You may work in a variety of fields, including business, market, natural science, and clinical. You work with clients, develop strategy, and provide guidance throughout the project lifecycle. Your duties include collaborating with a team to evaluate work processes and creating reports on your findings. Other responsibilities are focusing on a quantitative research method. You ensure each project is delivered on time and within budget. Research managers make strategic recommendations based on their research and analytics and moderate key client meetings and presentations.

What does a research manager do?

A Research Manager oversees research projects from inception to completion, ensuring that objectives are met on time and within budget. They lead teams of researchers, coordinate project activities, and analyze data to produce actionable insights. Research Managers also communicate findings to stakeholders and often help design research methodologies. Their role is crucial for organizations that rely on data-driven decision-making.

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

To thrive as a Research Manager, you need strong project management, data analysis, and research methodology skills, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or SAS), research databases, and reporting tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help in managing teams, stakeholders, and complex projects. These competencies ensure research projects are executed efficiently, results are reliable, and insights drive informed decision-making.

How does a research manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams within an organization?

Research Managers often work closely with various departments such as marketing, product development, and data analytics to ensure that research initiatives align with overall business objectives. They coordinate project timelines, share research findings, and facilitate discussions to integrate insights into strategic decisions. Effective communication and stakeholder management skills are critical, as Research Managers serve as the bridge between research teams and other business units, ensuring that research outcomes are actionable and relevant.

What is the difference between Research Manager vs Research Analyst?

AspectResearch ManagerResearch Analyst
Required credentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant field; often some experience in research managementBachelor's degree in related field; entry to mid-level position
Work environmentOversees research projects, manages teams, coordinates with stakeholdersConducts data collection, analysis, and reporting under supervision
Employer and industry usageUsed in corporate, academic, and market research settings for leadership rolesCommon in market research firms, consulting, and academic research

The main difference between a Research Manager and a Research Analyst lies in their responsibilities and experience level. Research Managers oversee entire projects and teams, requiring leadership skills and broader experience, while Research Analysts focus on data collection and analysis tasks. Both roles are essential in research environments, but they differ in scope and seniority.

Are research manager jobs high paying?

Research manager jobs typically offer high salaries compared to many other roles, especially in industries like pharmaceuticals, technology, and finance. Compensation varies based on experience, education, location, and the size of the organization, with senior roles often earning six-figure salaries. Strong analytical skills and project management experience can also influence earning potential.

How much do research managers make in the US?

Research managers in the US typically earn an average salary of around $80,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles or those in high-demand sectors may offer higher compensation, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.

How much does a research manager get paid?

Research managers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles or those in specialized fields may offer higher compensation, and the position often requires strong analytical skills and familiarity with data analysis tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Manager jobs in Madison, WI?

For Research Manager jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Manager jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Manager jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Research Manager jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Research Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Manager job openings in Madison, WI 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 $99,321 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

$95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


University Of Wisconsin-Madison rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 625 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.
Job Category: Academic Staff
Employment Type: Regular
Job Profile: Clinical Research Manager
Job Summary:
The School Mental Health Collaborative (SMHC), a research center within the University of Wisconsin - Madison's School of Education, is seeking a Clinical Research Manager. SMHC focuses on conducting research to inform policy and practice related to the promotion of social-emotional and behavioral success of children and families in school and community settings. The CRM works with faculty and staff to plan, develop, and direct clinical research within SMHC working under PI (Principal Investigator) supervision. Additionally, the CRM solicits clinical research opportunities, develops policies and procedures, and supervises clinical research staff.
This position is primarily onsite and requires a regular in-person presence at 1025 West Johnson Street, Madison, WI. Limited remote work flexibility may be available; however, the specific onsite/remote schedule will be determined during the interview process and based on operational requirements.
Responsibilities
The following responsibilities are carried out under the direction and supervision of a point of contact study investigator (e.g., Principal Investigator).
  • Research Program Direction: Direct the planning and implementation of clinical research protocols within K-12 settings, ensuring high-quality execution of programs focused on student social-emotional and behavioral success.
  • Strategic Growth & Advocacy: Identify and solicit new internal and external research opportunities to expand SMHC's impact on policy and practice; promote center capabilities and recommend strategic program enhancements to leadership.
  • Policy & Compliance Management: Develop and maintain internal policies and procedures to ensure all research activities and data documentation comply with University standards and federal regulations (e.g., IRB and FERPA).
  • Collaborative Proposal Development: Compose, assemble, and submit grant proposals and research protocols that align with SMHC's mission and secure sustainable funding.
  • Supervisory Leadership: Provide comprehensive supervision for clinical research staff (minimum 2.0 FTE), including hiring, performance management, and professional development, to foster a highly effective and mission-driven team.
  • Financial & Operational Oversight: Manage the overall functioning and fiscal health of clinical research programs by developing budgets, monitoring expenditures, and ensuring resources are optimized to meet research goals.

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Develops, implements, and maintains clinical research policies, standard operating procedures, and operational guidelines

  • Compiles audits and documents research data to ensure necessary compliance with institutional policies and procedures
  • Analyzes research portfolios and accounts, solicits internal and external research opportunities, promotes unit capabilities, and makes recommendations to leadership for strategic program enhancements
  • Exercises supervisory authority, including hiring, transferring, suspending, promoting, managing conduct and performance, discharging, assigning, rewarding, disciplining, and/or approving hours worked of at least 2.0 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees
  • Composes, assembles, and submits grant proposals and protocols according to applicable rules and regulations
  • Plans staff implementation of protocols and on-going quality review of one or multiple, basic or moderately complex clinical research trials or programs
  • Develops and monitors the program budget; and reviews and approves expenditures

Department:
School of Education / Wisconsin Center for Education Research / School Mental Health Collaborative
Compensation:
Minimum: $95,000.00
Commensurate with qualifications and experience. This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund.
Required Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated experience in the coordination and management of clinical research trials or programs involving human subjects.
  • Experience exercising supervisory authority, including hiring, performance management, and professional development of staff.
  • Proven ability to compose, assemble, and submit grant proposals and research protocols in accordance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
  • Knowledge of institutional policies and procedures related to clinical research, including Institutional Review Board (IRB) standards and data privacy (e.g., HIPAA or FERPA).
  • Experience developing and monitoring program budgets, including reviewing and approving expenditures to ensure fiscal responsibility.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex research data into clear documentation for audits and strategic recommendations.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience managing research within school and community settings or focused on student social-emotional and behavioral health.
  • Experience working with families and youth within a community or medical context focused on mental and behavioral health.
  • Experience working within a multidisciplinary team (e.g., faculty, project staff, and school administrators) to implement complex research protocols.
  • Proficiency in high-level data auditing and the use of research management software to ensure data integrity and compliance.
  • Familiarity with the University of Wisconsin-Madison's administrative systems or similar large-scale research university environments.

Education:
Master's degree required, doctoral degree preferred
Preferred degree in education, psychology, social services, or a -related field such as Education, School Psychology, and Social Work.
How to Apply:
Please go to the "Apply Now" area and select your current UW Employment Status.
Upload a copy of:
  • Current Resume/CV including names and contact information for three professional references
  • Cover Letter detailing your interest in the position and experience relative to the job responsibilities and qualifications.

Note:
  • There is one upload area in Workday, but you can upload multiple documents to your application. Incomplete application packages that do not include all of the requested documentation will not be considered.
  • Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e., a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment. UW-Madison is not an E-Verify employer, and therefore, is not eligible to employ F1 STEM OPT Extension participants.

Contact Information:
Becky Ohan
HR Manager
hr@education.wisc.edu
Institutional Statement on Diversity:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.
To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.
Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.

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About University of Wisconsin

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The University of Wisconsin, based in Madison, WI, US, functions in the educational industry and is a renowned and respected institution for higher education. Its official website is wisc.edu. Established in 1848, this public research university is recognized globally for its innovative approach to education, research, creativity, and public service. It embodies a strong commitment to academic freedom and academic excellence. As a major contributor to the Wisconsin Idea, it aims to accomplish its mission of generating well-rounded individuals who will contribute substantially to society, the local community, and the global economy.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

Year founded

2005