Assistant Director of Research
$100,000–$1,000,000 year
On-site · Austin, Texas, United States
Job Summary
Assistant Director of Research at UT Austin’s Clements Center for National Security leads strategic growth and daily management of the center’s policy research portfolio. Responsibilities include designing and executing strategic plans to expand the portfolio, managing day-to-day research operations (proposal development, project tracking, events, social media, marketing, scholar support), disseminating policy research to private sector and government audiences, overseeing a selective student fellow program, serving as point of contact for research fellows, building partnerships with scholars and policymakers, and leading planning and execution of public and private events originating from research activity. The role requires collaboration with multiple teams (events, communications, student programs) to synchronize schedules and efforts. Required qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in a related field and five+ years of relevant experience in research administration or policy research, with strong communication and leadership skills; preferred qualifications include an advanced degree and experience in university research settings and grant administration. Salary starts at $100,000 depending on qualifications; location is Austin, TX with no remote work.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, international relations, history, or a related field
- Five or more years of progressively responsible professional experience in research administration, policy research, academic programs, government affairs, or a related field
- Experience coordinating events, public engagement activities, or policy briefings
- Experience developing and maintaining collaborative relationships with scholars, policymakers, students, and external partners
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Demonstrated strategic planning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
- Experience supervising, mentoring, or supporting students, fellows, or professional staff
- Proven ability to work collaboratively across teams and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced environment
- Relevant experience in national security, foreign policy, public policy, or related research areas
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