Associate Director of Research Integrity

Job Summary

Auburn University’s Office of the Senior Vice President for Research and Economic Development is seeking a qualified candidate for the role of an Associate Director of Research Integrity . This position provides oversight and operational management for the Financial Conflict of Interest ( FCOI ), Responsible Conduct of Research ( RCR ), and Research Misconduct (RM) programs within the Office of Research Integrity & Compliance, and has responsibilities for program development, advancement, and assessment.

Essential Functions

• Serves as the Deputy Research Integrity Officer ( DRIO ) in support of the Research Integrity Officer ( RIO ) and research misconduct proceedings.
• Works closely with the RIO , University leadership, and appropriate admin offices to support RM proceedings. Interacts with internal and external stakeholders regarding received allegations, assessment, inquiry, investigation, and final resolution.
• Provides strategic leadership, operational direction, and comprehensive oversight of the processes, systems, compliance requirements, and educational initiatives related to research integrity programs and functions administered by the Office of Research Integrity & Compliance.
• Reviews and/or creates policies and procedures pertaining to research integrity to fulfill regulatory requirements and address institutional needs.
• Develops, implements, and oversees comprehensive monitoring programs to evaluate compliance with federal, state, local, and/or University requirements and/or policies and procedures relating to program management.
• Develops, implements, and delivers compliance education and training programs for faculty, researchers, administrators, staff, and students for compliance with federal regulations and institutional requirements.
• Serves as subject matter expert, maintains currency with and advises administration, investigators, and staff on applicable state, federal, and local law.
• Assists with reviews of allegations, including research misconduct and/or potential regulatory violations, in coordinating with appropriate administrative units, oversight bodies, and senior leadership.
• Oversees the design, development, and implementation of quality improvement efforts to increase automation, efficiency, and effectiveness.
• Maintains operational oversight of the identification, disclosure, and management of conflicts of interest related to research.
• May perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact : Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence : We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You : Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama : The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone : Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree; no specific discipline required.
• 7 years of experience in research compliance, integrity, and/or research administration. Other experience such as contracts, grants, law, information technology, or education may apply with Office of Research Integrity Training.
• At least 2 year’s experience directly supervising full-time employees.

Minimum Skills, License, and Certifications

Minimum Skills and Abilities

• In-depth knowledge of federal regulations, state laws, and institutional policies and procedures related to research integrity and compliance.
• Understanding of research administration, the research enterprise, legal aspects of business entities, and the roles of ownership and responsibilities within business entities.
• Understanding of human research, animal use, biological use, the scientific method, and scientific terminology.
• Understanding and experience with electronic compliance training and tracking systems, such as Huron ERA , the CITI training system, Banner, Xtender, Box Storage, Adobe Sign, and Office 365 application.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and presentation skills.
• Strong employee supervisory skills.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) skills.
• Highly developed critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with individuals at all levels of the organization (faculty, staff, university administration, and college and departmental leadership, etc.).
• Ability to administer multiple campus-wide research compliance programs.
• Strong technical aptitude.