RESEARCH POLICY MANAGER

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UC OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

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DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

Research Policy Analysis and Coordination (RPAC), a unit of Research & Innovation (R&I), provides guidance and assistance in the development, interpretation and implementation of policies and external rules in the conduct of extramurally funded research at the University of California.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Research Policy Manager is a subject matter expert and leader who provides expertise on a variety of research policy issues, including issues related to sponsors of research (e.g., federal, state, industry and non-profit), intellectual property policy, material transfers, clinical trials, contract and grant functions, and general research administration. The Research Policy Manager frequently problem-solves and analyzes unique issues or problems without guiding precedent/structure. The Research Policy Manager manages activities and works collaboratively with others on issues that cross content areas, may formulate strategies, and administer policies, processes, and resources, and functions with a high degree of autonomy.

This is a California-based, remote position. Although the role is remote, the selected candidate must reside in California and be willing to cover their own travel expenses when travel to Oakland is required for business meetings.

Responsibilities

• 40% Systemwide Lead on Research Policy Issues: Provides leadership and support on matters relating to the administration of research agreements and difficult or unique issues pertaining to contracting with research sponsors/collaborators. Provides leadership to and/or participates on project teams and work groups, with members drawn from campuses and OP, to address specific problems or issues, create efficiencies, promote best practices, and facilitate systemwide communication and collaboration. Develops systemwide UC policies and guidance that facilitate high quality research while complying with legal, ethical, and regulatory standards. Provides information, analysis, interpretation, guidance on UC policies and external rules and regulations related to research.
• 40% Addresses Issues Related to Research Sponsors: Negotiates systemwide master, template agreements, and complex campus agreements, as needed. Reviews campus requests for exception to UC policy on specific cases and recommend approval or denial.
• 10% Monitor in respective area(s) the external and internal environment for trends, state, and national issues, and proposed and enacted changes to regulations, legislation, and other requirements that affect UC's research activities. Develops and conducts training on emerging policy issues and compliance with external and internal requirements.
• 5% Represents UC's interests in meeting with agencies, associations, and government entities to advance policy positions.
• 5% May function as a lead with less experienced staff members.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of experience working within the UC system or other institution of higher education.
• Advanced knowledge of academic policies and procedures at UC or in higher education in general, including its priorities, vision, mission, goals, objectives, and infrastructure.
• Demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated skills developing, organizing, and disseminating complex and technical information, resources, training, and other materials that is appropriately presented and effectively received by target constituencies.
• Advanced skills to read, interpret, understand and respond to pending and proposed legislation, including skills to write effective position statements and draft compliant related policies.
• Interpersonal communications skills and political acumen to effectively represent the University, build strong working internal and external relationships at all levels, including with research administrators and managers, University leadership, researchers, and sponsor representatives.
• Excellent analytical skills, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, with ability to develop, assess, and synthesize information from a wide variety of sources on a wide range of issues in order to develop sound recommendations.
• Ability to function independently in a complex institutional environment and manage multiple assignments, competing priorities, and rapid deadlines.
• Demonstrated experience and commitment to working in collaborative interdisciplinary teams and in positions with shared authority for accomplishing program goals.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Job Title
Regulatory Policy And Intelligence Professional 4

Job Code
005909

Salary Grade
Grade 25

Payscale:
$152,000 - $162,000, commensurate with experience

The University of California, Office of the President, is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. The full salary range shows the growth potential for this position and the pay scale is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position.

Benefits: For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University visit: Benefits of Belonging

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This is a California-based, remote position. Although the role is remote, the selected candidate must reside in California and be willing to cover their own travel expenses when travel to Oakland is required for business meetings.

HOW TO APPLY

Please be prepared to attach a cover letter and resume with your application.

APPLICATION REVIEW DATE

The first review date for this job is November 19, 2026. The position will be open until filled.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Background Check Process: Successful completion of a background check is required for this critical position. Background check process at UCOP

Smoke Free Work Environment: The University of California, Office of the President, is smoke & tobacco-free as of January 1, 2014. UC Smoke & Tobacco Free Policy

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
  • APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

EEO STATEMENT

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

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