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Research Partnerships Officer

Brock University
Full-time
On-site
Canada
🌐 Digital Marketing

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: Research Partnerships Officer

πŸ”Ή Company: Brock University

πŸ”Ή Location: St. Catharines, Main Campus

πŸ”Ή Job Type: Full-Time, Fixed-Term Contract

πŸ”Ή Category: Administrative Professional

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: June 2, 2025

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: 2-5 years

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: Hybrid (2 days on campus)

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Facilitating sponsored research opportunities for Brock researchers
  • Cultivating relationships with industry and community partners
  • Managing research grants and partnerships from initial concept to submission
  • Collaborating with internal stakeholders and external partners
  • Promoting applied research opportunities and strategic communications

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of organization, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Lead and support the entire application process for research grants and partnerships

βœ… Coordinate with internal stakeholders to facilitate submission and post-award activities

βœ… Actively seek and create opportunities for sponsored research by bridging connections between Brock faculty and potential external partners

βœ… Partner with Brock researchers and external organizations to design research projects, tailoring funding arrangements to fit each initiative

βœ… Prepare, provide technical review, and write grant applications, ensuring compliance with grant specifications

βœ… Clearly communicate funding criteria to researchers and partners, ensuring proposals meet the necessary requirements for success

βœ… Analyze complex research guidelines and advise researchers on appropriate funding opportunities, minimizing risks and aligning with institutional goals

βœ… Support and foster relationships with potential new research partners, including industry leaders, community organizations, industry partners, SMEs, non-profits, and community groups, to promote applied research opportunities with Brock researchers

βœ… Engage with Brock researchers, offering support and guidance to align their individual expertise and interests with broader university initiatives and external partnership opportunities

βœ… Maintain processes and structure for partnerships project management, including file management, updating SOPs, templates, resources, etc.

βœ… Provide project management support for IP and commercialization projects, including file management, recordkeeping, and meeting IP deadlines

βœ… Collaborate with communications colleagues to support strategic communications that effectively highlights Brock’s research achievements, ongoing projects, and future opportunities

βœ… Actively seek and promote internal and external research funding opportunities, crucial for the strategic advancement of the University, its researchers, and their partners

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of research processes, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Graduate degree in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or relevant related discipline

Experience: Relevant experience in a Technology Transfer Office, Research Services Office, accelerator/incubator, research institute, private sector research organization, or research funding organization

Required Skills:

  • Project management experience with an ability to manage effectively multiple projects with competing priorities
  • Good understanding of the process of research at universities or postsecondary institutions
  • Good knowledge of different academic disciplines (sciences, social sciences, humanities, and etc.)
  • Strong computer competency including word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, database, web applications and web maintenance, social media, internet search engines
  • Extreme accuracy and attention to detail
  • Negotiation skills to facilitate finding common ground and acceptable resolutions
  • Excellent customer service skills with an ability to respond quickly to meet client needs and resolve problems
  • Ability to keep up to date with current and emerging research practices, legislation, internal policies, procedures, and practices

Preferred Skills:

  • PhD in STEM or related relevant field
  • Experience with performing or directing research in an academic or postsecondary environment; or experience with performing or directing research in an industrial setting
  • Experience in reviewing legal documents and contracts

ASSUMPTION: A strong background in research and grant writing, along with excellent project management skills, is essential for success in this role.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $70,000 - $75,000 CAD per year

Benefits:

  • Health & Dental Benefits
  • Pension Plan
  • Vacation (up to 3 weeks per year, in addition to university holidays)
  • Flexible Work Arrangements (Hybrid work schedule available)

Working Hours: 35-40 hours per week, with occasional evening and weekend work required for business development activity, conferences, and community events

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is based on the target hiring range and may vary depending on experience, internal equity, and budget considerations.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: Higher Education

Company Size: 11-50 employees

Founded: Brock University was founded in 1964

Company Description:

  • Brock University is a comprehensive, research-intensive university located in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
  • It is known for its strong focus on experiential education and community engagement
  • The university offers a wide range of programs and has a student population of over 19,000

Company Specialties:

  • Undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines
  • Research and innovation
  • Experiential education and community engagement

Company Website: www.brocku.ca

ASSUMPTION: Brock University is committed to creating a respectful and equitable workplace that fosters diversity and inclusion.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-level professional with opportunities for growth and development

Reporting Structure: Reports to the Executive Director, Innovation, Commercialization & Entrepreneurship

Work Arrangement: Hybrid (2 days on campus, with flexible work arrangements available)

Growth Opportunities:

  • Potential for career advancement within the Research Services Office or other departments at Brock University
  • Opportunities to gain experience in research partnerships, grant writing, and project management
  • Chance to work with a diverse range of stakeholders and build professional networks

ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within the research and innovation sector of higher education.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Main Campus (Employees)

Office Location(s): St. Catharines, Main Campus

Geographic Context:

  • St. Catharines is located in the Niagara region of Ontario, Canada
  • The city has a population of approximately 133,000 and is known for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and historic sites
  • The Niagara region is home to a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, tourism, and healthcare

Work Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with occasional evening and weekend work required

ASSUMPTION: The work environment at Brock University is collaborative, inclusive, and student-centered, with a strong focus on research and innovation.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Online application submission
  • Phone or video screening
  • In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager and/or panel
  • Background check and reference checks
  • Job offer and onboarding

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Understanding of research processes and grant writing
  • Project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
  • Communication and negotiation skills
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders
  • Alignment with Brock University's mission, values, and commitment to diversity and inclusion

Application Tips:

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Demonstrate your understanding of research processes, grant writing, and project management in your application materials
  • Showcase your ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and your commitment to diversity and inclusion

ATS Keywords: Research Partnerships Officer, Grant Writing, Project Management, Research Services, Higher Education, Brock University, St. Catharines, Niagara Region, Ontario

ASSUMPTION: Brock University uses Workday for its applicant tracking system and does not use AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project)
  • Database management software (e.g., Microsoft Access, SQL)
  • Web applications and web maintenance tools
  • Social media platforms
  • Internet search engines

ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management software is required for this role, while experience with other tools and technologies may be beneficial.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Excellence in teaching, learning, and research
  • Collaboration and partnerships
  • Inclusion and diversity
  • Integrity and accountability
  • Student-centeredness

Work Style:

  • Collaborative and team-oriented
  • Student-centered and focused on student success
  • Inclusive and committed to diversity, equity, and accessibility
  • Adaptable and responsive to change
  • Focused on innovation and continuous improvement

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • How do your personal values align with Brock University's commitment to excellence, collaboration, inclusion, integrity, and student-centeredness?
  • How do you approach building and maintaining effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, and external partners?
  • How do you balance multiple priorities and manage projects effectively, particularly in a collaborative and dynamic work environment?

ASSUMPTION: Brock University values candidates who are committed to its mission, values, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, and who can thrive in a collaborative, student-centered, and dynamic work environment.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Managing multiple projects with competing priorities and tight deadlines
  • Working with sensitive and confidential information
  • Occasional evening and weekend work required for business development activity, conferences, and community events
  • Navigating a large and complex university environment with diverse stakeholders
  • Keeping up to date with current and emerging research practices, legislation, internal policies, procedures, and practices

ASSUMPTION: Success in this role requires strong project management skills, excellent communication and negotiation skills, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders in a dynamic and collaborative work environment.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • Research Partnerships Officer vs. Research Grant Officer: Both roles focus on grant writing and research partnerships, but the Research Partnerships Officer role has a broader scope and requires more strategic thinking and relationship-building
  • Industry-specific context: Higher education research roles may have different priorities and requirements compared to research roles in other industries, such as pharmaceuticals or technology
  • Career path comparison: Research Partnerships Officer roles can lead to career advancement in research services, higher education administration, or related fields

ASSUMPTION: Research Partnerships Officer roles in higher education may have unique requirements and career paths compared to similar roles in other industries.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Facilitating a research partnership between Brock University and a local SME to develop a new product or service
  • Writing a successful grant application for a Brock University researcher to fund a multi-year research project
  • Managing a portfolio of research partnerships and grants, ensuring compliance with grant specifications and institutional goals

ASSUMPTION: Sample projects for this role may involve complex research initiatives, strategic partnerships, and grant writing, requiring strong project management skills and a deep understanding of research processes.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • Can you describe the research priorities and strategic initiatives of the university, and how this role contributes to their success?
  • How does the Research Services Office collaborate with other departments and stakeholders at Brock University, and what opportunities are there for cross-functional collaboration?
  • What are the most significant challenges facing the Research Partnerships Officer in this role, and how can I best prepare to address them?
  • How does Brock University support the professional development and growth of its employees, particularly in the Research Services Office?
  • What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this role, and how will my success be measured?

ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions during the interview process demonstrates your interest in the role and your commitment to success.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through this link
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role, with a focus on research processes, grant writing, and project management
  • Prepare for your interview by researching Brock University's mission, values, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, and by practicing your responses to common interview questions
  • If selected for an interview, be prepared to provide examples of your experience with research partnerships, grant writing, and project management
  • Follow up with the hiring manager after your interview to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.