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Research Operations Director Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Duke University

Lab Research Analyst II

Durham, NC · On-site

Confer with Core Facility Director in developing plans for research operations, projects and discussing the interpretation of results and the preparation of scientific manuscripts for publications.

Duke University

Lab Research Analyst II

Durham, NC · On-site

Confer with Core Facility Director in developing plans for research operations, projects and discussing the interpretation of results and the preparation of scientific manuscripts for publications ...

Duke University

Research Program Leader

Durham, NC · On-site

... Director and other program leads. Identifies program gaps, constraints, needs, and milestones ... Research Operations (30%) * Serves as an expert resource and provides training regarding ...

Duke University

Research Program Leader

Durham, NC · On-site

... Director and other program leads. Identifies program gaps, constraints, needs, and milestones ... Research Operations (30%) * Serves as an expert resource and provides training regarding ...

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Research Operations Director information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$33.1K

$104.7K

$174.5K

How much do research operations director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for research operations director in Raleigh, NC is $104,674.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,400.00 and $131,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main challenges a research operations director faces in supporting cross-functional research teams?

A Research Operations Director often navigates challenges such as coordinating resources across multiple research projects, ensuring consistent processes, and managing communication between diverse stakeholders like researchers, product managers, and leadership. Balancing the needs of various teams while maintaining research quality and compliance can be complex, especially as organizations scale. Effective directors establish standardized procedures, foster a culture of collaboration, and implement tools that streamline workflows to address these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Research Operations Director, you need expertise in research management, process optimization, and budgeting, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with project management software, compliance systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial for leading teams and coordinating complex projects. These skills ensure efficient research operations, compliance with regulations, and the successful delivery of research outcomes.

What is a research operations director?

A Research Operations Director is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the infrastructure, processes, and resources that support research activities within an organization. They manage teams, budgets, and systems to ensure research projects run efficiently and comply with regulatory standards. Their role often includes improving workflow, implementing best practices, and supporting researchers with tools and training. The goal is to streamline research operations and enhance the impact of research outcomes.

What is the difference between Research Operations Director vs Research Manager?

AspectResearch Operations DirectorResearch Manager
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (e.g., Master’s or PhD) and extensive experience in research managementUsually holds a bachelor’s or master’s degree with several years of research experience
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple research teams, manages operations, and aligns research strategies with organizational goalsManages specific research projects or teams, focusing on execution and deliverables
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large corporations, tech companies, and research institutionsFound across various industries including tech, healthcare, and market research firms

The Research Operations Director focuses on strategic oversight and operational management of research functions, while the Research Manager handles day-to-day project execution. Both roles require research expertise, but the director role involves broader leadership and organizational responsibilities.

What does a research operations director do?

A research operations director oversees the planning, management, and execution of research activities within an organization. They coordinate research teams, ensure compliance with protocols, manage budgets, and optimize processes using tools like research management software to support effective data collection and analysis.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Operations jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Research Operations jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
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Research Operations Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Operations Director job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,674 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Associate Director, Research Operations

Duke Clinical Research Institute

Durham, NC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality, intellectual curiosity, and the unique perspectives that strengthen our academic community. As theAssociate Director, Research Operations, you will play a critical leadership role in advancing Trinity College of Arts & Sciences' research mission by supporting faculty, departments, and school leadership across the full lifecycle of sponsored research.

In this role, you will serve as a trusted advisor to faculty and administrators, a connector across institutional partners, and a champion for clear communication, effective processes, and inclusive research support. Reporting to the Senior Associate Dean for Research, you'll work closely with the Vice Dean for Finance and Administration and Duke's Office for Research & Innovation (OR&I) to ensure Trinity's research enterprise is well-supported, compliant, and positioned for continued growth.

Be Bold.

You'll help shape the future of research administration at Duke by identifying gaps, reducing barriers, and building systems that make it easier for faculty and researchers to succeed.

What You'll Do

Lead Research Administration Strategy

  • Partner with the Senior Associate Dean for Research and OR&I leadership to identify, develop, and disseminate best practices for research administration across Trinity.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for the implementation of institutional initiatives, policies, and compliance requirements related to research administration.
  • Advise departmental business managers and Trinity staff on research administration policies, procedures, sponsor requirements, and regulatory updates.
  • Provide ongoing training and professional development to administrative staff supporting research activities.
  • Collaborate with the Vice Dean for Finance and Administration to assess gaps in research administration support and align solutions with shared services models and departmental staffing structures.
  • Partner with institutional committees and working groups to advance coordinated research administration practices.
  • Serve as a key liaison between Trinity and OR&I to ensure open, consistent communication.

Support Faculty and Researchers

  • Monitor the effectiveness of administrative support for proposal development, grant submission, post-award management, research-related HR, procurement, IRB review, data storage, and related research functions.
  • Meet regularly with faculty, department chairs, business managers, and administrators to understand evolving research administration needs and communicate those needs to Trinity leadership.
  • Facilitate strong coordination among faculty, departmental administrators, and central shared service teams to ensure seamless pre- and post-award support.
  • Provide onboarding and individualized support for new Trinity faculty navigating Duke systems for grants submission and management.
  • Support implementation and administration of research-related policies affecting graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduate researchers.
  • Identify breakdowns in research administration processes and work collaboratively with faculty and leadership to develop solutions.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact within Trinity for research compliance matters.
  • Consult on research administration resource needs and partner with school leadership on staffing and support strategies.
  • Collaborate with the Office of Research Support (ORS) and designated grant managers on grant administration, policies, procedures, and budgeting.

Advance Research Development and Data Strategy

  • Identify, track, and analyze key performance indicators related to Trinity's research activities, including sponsored funding, publications, and broader scholarly and societal impact.
  • Partner with OR&I and Trinity Technology Services to develop infrastructure that supports data-driven decision-making and performance monitoring.
  • Meet with faculty to understand grant development needs and connect them to funding development resources across OR&I and campus partners.

Other Duties

  • Perform other responsibilities as assigned in support of Trinity's research mission.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in a scientific, allied health, or related field
  • Master's degree or PhD preferred

Experience

  • Minimum of seven (7) years of experience managing research staff and supporting sponsored research activities
  • Demonstrated experience with grant proposals and budget development
  • At least one (1) year of proven leadership experience
  • General knowledge of internal and external research compliance regulations

Preferred Skills

  • Strong proficiency with computing software and web-based applications
  • Ability to use administrative tools to track, model, and analyze institutional data
  • Proven ability to work effectively with researchers in an academic environment
  • Exceptional relationship-building skills and experience working with stakeholders at all organizational levels
  • Ability to translate complex information into clear, accessible guidance for diverse audiences
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
  • A problem-solving mindset with the ability to navigate complex situations and identify practical solutions
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively, providing leadership and influence without direct supervisory authority
  • Familiarity with financial tracking systems and/or research administration systems
  • Understanding of Duke University policies and processes related to proposal submission and grant administration

Choose Duke.

At Duke, you'll join a world-class research institution committed to excellence, collaboration, and impact. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive environment where your expertise helps advance discovery and scholarship across disciplines.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help strengthen the research enterprise of Trinity College of Arts & Sciences at Duke University.


Anticipated Pay Range: Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $0.00 to USD $0.00. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.


Your total compensation goes beyond thedollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/


Equal Opportunity Employer: Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy- related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:
Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and reasonable accommodation(s) can be requested with Duke Access and Accommodations Services (email: DAAS@duke.edu; phone: 919-668-1267).

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