Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences · 13 hours ago
Assistant/Associate Director Research Programs and Compliance
Des Moines University is a premier medical and health sciences institution dedicated to improving lives through education. The Associate Director of Research Programs and Compliance will support the coordination and administration of research services and compliance functions, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and promoting best practices in research integrity and safety.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Compliance Coordination: Partner with leadership to coordinate institutional compliance programs for IBC, Radiation Safety, IACUC, and IRB
Health & Safety Management: Oversee research laboratory and animal facility safety, ensuring compliance with OSHA, NIH, CDC, and other standards
Research Program Management: Support faculty and student research initiatives while promoting integrity and compliance best practices
Training & Education: Design and deliver compliance training for faculty, staff, and students on biosafety, radiation safety, and animal care regulations
Scientific Review & Research Quality: Conduct scientific and compliance reviews of research protocols, grant applications, and student projects to ensure best practices
Leadership & Collaboration: Provide supervision, strategic planning, and serve as a liaison across the university to advance research infrastructure and compliance
Supervisory Responsibilities: Carries out supervisory responsibilities for direct reports of the research assistants
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., research administration, life sciences, public health)
5+ years of experience in research administration or compliance, including knowledge of federal regulations (e.g., Uniform Guidance, FDA, USDA, NIH) and health/safety standards
Experience with scientific review and research laboratory operations, including wet laboratories and animal care facilities
Strong organizational and project management skills
Ability to interpret complex regulations and provide sound judgment
Preferred
Advanced degree (master's or PhD) in a relevant discipline such as research administration, life sciences, biomedical sciences, public health, or a closely related field preferred
Experience administering IBC, Radiation Safety, IACUC, IRB, and health/safety programs in an academic or healthcare research setting
Familiarity with electronic research administration systems
Radiation safety training and certification as required by institutional policy or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire
Certified IRB Professional (CIP) preferred
Certified Professional IACUC Administrator (CPIA) preferred or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire
Biosafety-related certifications preferred; willingness to pursue if assigned
OSHA Laboratory Safety Certification preferred
AALAS certification is preferred for animal care oversight
Benefits
Generous employer contribution towards the medical plan
10% retirement match
Flexible work arrangements
Community service time
Tuition assistance
Professional development funding
Access to wellness facilities with programs that promote a well-balanced lifestyle
Paid time off
Free use of wellness facilities
Employee engagement and recognition programs throughout the year
Company
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences
Founded in 1898, Des Moines University is a graduate medicine and health sciences university in West Des Moines, Iowa.