Director of Undergraduate Research (University, MS, US, 38677) na University of Mississippi | Ole Miss

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Position Description

The Director for Undergraduate Research at the University of Mississippi is a leadership position within the Office for Research and Economic Development. Reporting directly to the Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development, the Director is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing a comprehensive undergraduate research program that enhances the academic experience, fosters intellectual curiosity, and promotes scholarly engagement across all disciplines. The Director will collaborate with faculty, staff, and students to expand opportunities for undergraduate research, secure funding, and integrate research into the university’s educational mission, with the goal of increasing undergraduate research opportunities.

Essential Functions

Program Development and Leadership:

• Design and implement a strategic vision for undergraduate research that aligns with the university’s mission and goals.
• Establish policies, procedures, and guidelines to support undergraduate research initiatives.
• Promote interdisciplinary research opportunities and foster collaboration across academic departments.
• Support existing programs and opportunities within disciplines.

Student Engagement and Mentorship:

• Develop programs to engage undergraduate students in research, including workshops, symposia, and mentoring initiatives.
• Advise and support students in identifying research opportunities, securing funding, and presenting their work at local, regional, and national forums.
• Create new and support existing pathways to facilitate access to research opportunities for all undergraduate students.

Faculty and Staff Collaboration:

• Partner with faculty to integrate research opportunities into undergraduate curricula and promote faculty-student research collaborations.
• Provide resources and training for faculty mentors to effectively guide undergraduate researchers.
• Collaborate with academic departments and administrative units to streamline research-related processes.

Funding and Resource Development:

• Identify and pursue internal and external funding opportunities to support undergraduate research programs, including grants, fellowships, and scholarships.
• Manage budgets and allocate resources effectively to support research initiatives.
• Provide resources for research grants and awards that specifically involve undergraduate participation.

Outreach and Communication:

• Promote the achievements of undergraduate researchers through university publications, websites, and external media.
• Organize new and support existing undergraduate research showcases, conferences, and other events to highlight student work.
• Represent the university at professional conferences and in national organizations focused on undergraduate research.

Assessment and Reporting:

• Establish internal evaluation metrics to assess the effectiveness and outcomes of undergraduate research programs, independent of grant-mandated reporting requirements.
• Prepare annual reports for the Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development, highlighting program outcomes and future goals.
• Ensure compliance with university policies and external regulations related to research activities.

Position Details

Position Title: Director for Undergraduate Research 

Department: Office for Research and Economic Development

Reports To: Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development

Location: University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS

Employment Type: Full-Time (in-person) 

• If a candidate has qualifications appropriate for faculty appointment in an academic unit, the appropriate department may be asked to consider the rank and track of the candidate at the time of hire.
• Tenure or tenure track is not guaranteed and will depend on the candidate and department negotiation. 

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in relevant field (e.g., research academic discipline).
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in higher education, research or undergraduate education administration, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in program development, student engagement, or faculty collaboration.
• Ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders, including students, faculty, and administrators.
• Proficient in strategic planning and project management.
• Proven experience in financial management, including budget oversight and resource allocation.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with demonstrated experience in public speaking, advocacy, and media relations.
• Knowledge of research methodologies and academic publishing processes 

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing undergraduate research programs or similar initiatives.
• Proven success in securing grants or external funding.
• Familiarity with national trends and best practices in undergraduate research. 

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, age, disability, military status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.