Job description
Position Summary
The Associate Director of Research is responsible for directing and supporting the Epilepsy Foundation’s Research and Innovation programs, including the Accelerator Course, Epilepsy Foundation Shark Tank Program, the Research Roundtable for Epilepsy, and the Bi-Annual Pipeline Conference. Under the supervision of the CRIO, this role involves developing program content and goals, overseeing execution, supporting strategic initiatives, and mentoring staff within the Research & Innovation team.
The Associate Director will contribute to the scientific preparation of materials for the Research Roundtable, co-coordinate annual conferences, support planning for the Pipeline Meeting, and help develop communication strategies and partnerships to advance the Foundation’s mission. This role also plays a key part preparing scientific communications, operational and logistical oversight, stakeholder engagement, and content development for research-driven initiatives and other tasks as assigned.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Program & Event Leadership
- Oversee execution of the Research Roundtable for Epilepsy:
- Oversee development of timelines for conference tasks in partnership with the Research & Innovation Project Managers.
- Oversee weekly executive committee and quarterly advisory committee meetings.
- Produce meeting materials and communications with speakers, participants, and staff.
- Serve as liaison with internal departments for event logistics.
- Partner with Development team to deliver Roundtable Membership benefits.
- Oversee meeting logistics (act as point of contact for registration, materials, and communication.)
- Lead creation of preparatory content, manuscripts, and meeting outcomes with CRIO and Chief Medical Officer.
- Oversee development of the bi-annual Pipeline Conference:
- Lead planning, logistics, and operations.
- Identify speakers, topics, and company participants with CRIO and Medical Director
- Coordinate Shark Tank segment, including speaker and “Shark” selection.
- Manage Accelerator Award process.
- Lead execution of the Accelerator Course:
- Develop materials and coordinate with speakers and participants.
- Collaborate with CRIO and partners to select companies and organize pitch sessions.
Strategic Communications & Partnerships
- Assist in developing and implementing communication strategies for research publications and collateral.
- Support the development of strategic partnerships with chapters, affiliates, nonprofits, societies, agencies, and corporate entities.
- Ensure stakeholder engagement across research programs.
Operational & Administrative Oversight
- Lead peer review processes and collaborate with volunteer committees.
- Oversee project work plans and update CRIO on budget or timeline changes.
- Coordinate with other departments and support funding promotion efforts.
- Respond to inquiries from researchers, donors, and stakeholders.
- Stay up to date on emerging research and industry trends.
Supervisory Responsibilities
The Associate Director of Research and Innovation may have supervisory responsibilities, providing mentorship and oversight to Research & Innovation staff.
Education and Experience
- PhD in neuroscience highly preferred; other scientific or technical degrees in biology, chemistry, physics, or engineering considered.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in biomedical research, nonprofit service organizations, or relevant sectors.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of:
- Neuroscience research and emerging technologies
- Peer review and research funding processes
- Management of advisory boards and diverse stakeholder groups
- Budget oversight and administrative processes
- Microsoft Office, Microsoft Project, and general database tools
Ability to:
- Mentor and supervise team members
- Manage program administration independently
- Write clearly for scientific and general audiences
- Build on scientific concepts to enhance content
- Communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders
- Handle multiple tasks with minimal supervision
- Travel as needed to support programs
Pay Range:
- $85,000-$100,000
