The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!
The Research Project Manager (RPM) supports the University’s research enterprise by providing professional project management and research administration expertise for large, complex research programs and projects. The RPM applies project management methodologies and institutional processes to plan, track, analyze, and report on research activities. This role may provide ongoing project/program management support for one or more research projects and/or deliver temporary or specialized project support across multiple research projects and initiatives concurrently.
Working with a high degree of independence and receiving general direction from the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the RPM executes and coordinates a wide range of activities critical to research success. The RPM contributes specialized project management knowledge and institutional expertise that may fall outside the PI’s core experience, ensuring effective coordination, compliance, and operational efficiency across complex research efforts.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, coordinate, and manage research programs and projects using project management methodologies, tools, and institutional processes.
- Track project progress, timelines, milestones, deliverables, and resources; analyze data and prepare clear and actionable reports for PIs and research stakeholders.
- Serve as a central point of coordination for research activities, ensuring alignment with institutional policies, procedures, and key deadlines.
- Collaborate directly with faculty, research teams, and administrative offices across campus on behalf of the PI and the research program or project.
- Provide guidance and process support related to research administration, compliance, and research operations workflows.
- Identify risks, issues, and dependencies; develop, recommend, and support implementation of mitigation strategies.
- Support continuous improvement by identifying efficiencies, best practices, and process enhancements for effective research project execution.
- Lead and facilitate communication among diverse stakeholders to promote clarity, accountability, and successful project outcomes.
- Support large scale, multi institutional, or high risk research initiatives by coordinating activities across internal and external partners.
- Bachelor’s degree
- 5+ years of professional experience in project management, research administration, or a related field.
- CAPM/PMP Certification required
Skills and Abilities:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively to diverse audiences.
- Proven ability to interface and collaborate with faculty, staff, and administrators.
- Strong organizational, time management, and prioritization skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as collaboratively in a team-based environment.
- Demonstrated knowledge of project management and research administration.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
Work Environment
The Research Project Manager works closely with faculty investigators and research teams across the University and engages regularly with administrative partners across campus. The position requires a high level of professionalism, discretion, adaptability, and independent judgment to effectively support complex, dynamic, and evolving research initiatives.
Additional Information
Applications due by 11/6/26
Salary up to $90,000, commensurate with experience
The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree
- 5+ years of professional experience in project management, research administration, or a related field
- CAPM or PMP certification
What We Do
The University of Notre Dame is a global, private Catholic research university located in Notre Dame, Indiana. Founded in 1842, the institution is inspired by its Catholic character to be a powerful force for good in the world. It focuses on fostering intellectual growth and moral character in equal measure, pursuing academic excellence and breakthroughs in research and leadership across all fields of study.
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