Director, Division of Science and Research, WV Higher Education Policy Commission (WVHEPC)

Director, Division of Science and Research, WV Higher Education Policy Commission (WVHEPC)

Overview:  Under the general direction of the Chancellor and the WV Science and Research Council, the Director for Science and Research oversees all operations and management of the division including the supervision of employees and service outputs. This includes serving as the Principal Investigator (PI) and Project Director for National Science Foundation’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR).  

Duties and Responsibilities: Duties include coordination and oversight of all EPSCoR programs including those supported by the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Department of Defense, Environmental Protection Agency, and Department of Commerce. The position is responsible for the legal and programmatic administration of West Virginia’s legislatively created STEM infrastructure and research funds including the Research Challenge Fund (RCF) and Research Trust Fund (RTF).  Administrative responsibilities range from fund income monitoring to development of solicitations for distribution of funds to academic institutions and peer review of proposals. Development of state administrative rules and reports to legislative committees are required. An emphasis on outreach and communications for the development of scientific literacy and STEM workforce in the state are required by this position. Communication skills include providing written reports, newspaper stories and academic journal articles to public speaking and presentations. Presentations to the Science and Research Council, Chancellor and Commission are provided on a frequent basis. Congressional Offices and the Governor are provided briefings on policy matters as they relate to state and federal programs of interest. 

Knowledge, skills and abilities: Demonstrated accomplishments as a principal investigator on federal grants and contracts. Good working knowledge of the National Science Foundation and other federal agencies. Demonstrated entrepreneurial skills with knowledge of intellectual property and technology transfer issues. Research experience including a basic grounding in scientific theory and principles.  Knowledge of the research programs and STEM activities at higher education institutions. Awareness of major research programs nationally. Demonstrated decision-making and management skills with the ability to interact with individuals and groups from higher education, business and government. Ability to manage complex and dynamic programs and constituency. Strong analytical and communication skills. Excellent writing abilities and grantsmanship skills.

Salary Range: From $125,000 to $135,000, depending on qualifications.

Education and experience:  Doctoral degree in a scientific field from an accredited college or university combined with a minimum of four years as a Project Officer, Research Director, or Sponsored Research Administrator required.  Management of large multi-institutional grants or partnerships a plus. Federal agency experience preferred.

Closing date:  Position is opened until filled. Priority consideration will be given to application materials received on or before October 18, 2019. 

Application process:  Qualified candidates must submit a letter of interest, a current resume, and titles, phone numbers and e-mail addresses for three professional references. Final candidates are subject to employment and credential verification, as well as, reference and background checks.  Submit all information electronically via e-mail with “Director: Division of Science and Research” in the subject line to: Ms. Vickie Hairston, HR Representative, Senior at hepc.hr@wvhepc.edu.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer/Veterans/Disabled

The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the Community and Technical College System of West Virginia are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. The Commission and Council provide a collegial, respectful and inclusive environment that values the diversity, creativity and contributions of its staff.