Research Development Associate for Strategic Funding

Research Development Associate For Strategic Funding

The College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State is seeking a dynamic and motivated professional to join our expanding research development team as a Research Development Associate for Strategic Funding. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking environment that supports cutting-edge research in agriculture, food systems, and environmental science.

This position will be filled at the Research Project Manager - Intermediate Professional level.

Research development is a growing field focused on enhancing the competitiveness of research proposals, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and aligning research activities with strategic funding opportunities. As part of our team, you will play a key role in enabling faculty success by connecting ideas to resources and helping shape the future of agricultural research.

This position reports to the Director of Research Development and Initiatives in the Office for Research and Graduate Education and works closely with the research development team supporting the Technologies for Agriculture and Living Systems (TALiS) initiative and the Institute for Sustainable Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Science (SAFES). You will collaborate with faculty, research administrators, and external partners to identify and pursue strategic funding opportunities that advance the college's broad research mission areas.

Successful candidates will work in a supportive environment that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. If you're passionate about research and want to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to apply and grow with us.

Application Information : Please provide a resume or CV with relevant experience and a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for the position.

Work Arrangements : Work in-person is required; however, partial remote work may be considered. Questions related to flexible work may be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Responsibilities : This position will have the following responsibilities :

• Provide strategic research development support for complex extramural grant submissions.
• Facilitate team formation, collaboration planning, and proposal development for faculty.
• Manage internal funding competitions (e.g., seed grants), including process design, budget tracking, and award administration.
• Scan for and target strategic funding opportunities aligned with college priorities, including curating and disseminating funding opportunities.
• Serve as a research concierge, connecting faculty with resources, previous awardees, and funding tools.
• Plan and coordinate grantsmanship and professional development activities for faculty and trainees.
• Conduct strategic and competitive intelligence to support research alignment and decision-making.
• Collaborate on internal and external research communications and reporting.

Skills and Experience :

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications : Master's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications : None

Background Checks / Clearances : Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits : The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $61,800.00 - $89,600.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

EEO IS THE LAW : Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.