Associate Director of Research Programs and Compliance

Overview

Associate Director of Research Programs and Compliance

Des Moines University, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Associate Director of Research Programs and Compliance. This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative and forward-thinking research professional to help shape and strengthen the research enterprise at one of the nation’s premier medical and health sciences universities. As DMU continues to expand its research infrastructure, academic programs, and state-of-the-art facilities, the university seeks a leader who is passionate about advancing research excellence, fostering a culture of compliance and safety, and supporting innovation across a dynamic academic health sciences environment.

Under the general direction of the Director of Research Operations, Compliance and Strategy, the Associate Director of Research Programs and Compliance plays a key role in coordinating and advancing research services and compliance functions across the university. The position supports the development and implementation of research compliance initiatives, health and safety programs, and laboratory and animal facility operations while ensuring adherence to federal, state, sponsor, and institutional regulations governing research activities, including IBC, Radiation Safety, IACUC, and IRB. This individual will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with faculty, staff, and university leadership to strengthen research quality, support institutional growth priorities, deliver compliance training and risk mitigation initiatives, and contribute to the continued evolution of DMU’s research infrastructure and operational strategy.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Compliance Coordination

• Working with Director of Research Operations, Compliance and Strategy to coordinate compliance programs for IBC, Radiation Safety, IACUC and IRB.
• Develop, implement, and monitor policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable regulations (e.g., Uniform Guidance, Common Rule, FDA, USDA, NIH, CDC).
• Conduct initial compliance reviews and risk assessments for research projects.
• Serve as liaison with regulatory agencies and internal compliance committees, as assigned.

Health and Safety Management

• Oversee institutional health and safety programs for research laboratories and animal facilities.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, EPA, CDC, NIH, and other applicable safety standards.
• Develop and implement research related emergency response plans, hazard assessments, and safety audits.
• Coordinate training on chemical hygiene, radiation safety, and biosafety within research.
• Evaluate biological and chemical risks, and experimental designs to support biosafety and radiation risk determinations.
• Manages the university chemical inventory and Safety Data Sheet files and work with facilities for the proper storage, disposal and documentation of substances.

Research Program Management

• Coordinate and support institutional research programs, including faculty-driven initiatives, center initiatives and student research opportunities.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to promote best practices in research integrity and compliance.
• Oversee compliance-related reporting to internal leadership and external agencies.

Training & Education

• Design and deliver compliance training for faculty, staff, and students on biosafety, radiation safety, and animal care regulations.
• Provide guidance on regulatory requirements and institutional policies.

Scientific Review & Research Quality

• Conduct scientific merit assessments of research protocols submitted to IBC, IACUC, Radiation Safety and IRB Committees to ensure alignment with best practices, regulatory expectations, and institutional risk standards.
• Provide initial scientific merit and compliance review of grant applications, progress reports, and internal or student program applications, including assessment of biosafety sections, animal use components, data management plans, and foreign influence requirements, as applicable.
• Collaborate with faculty to mitigate safety risk and responsible conduct of research.
• Provide scientific expertise to institutional committees and programs, serving as a scientific reviewer or advisor as appropriate.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Provides day-to-day supervision of assigned compliance, laboratory, or safety personnel, as determined by organizational needs.
• Work closely with senior leadership to align compliance activities with institutional goals.
• Contribute to strategic planning and continuous improvement of research infrastructure, compliance processes, and operational systems.
• Collaborate with faculty and leadership to align research facilities and services with grant development and institutional growth priorities.
• Represent the Office of Research in university-wide and external professional forums, ensuring DMU’s alignment with research best practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Office of Research and institutional priorities.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Carries out supervisory responsibilities for direct reports of the research assistants in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include but are not limited to interviewing and/or motivating and/or training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Qualifications:

Required Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., research administration, life sciences, public health)
• 5+ years of experience in research administration or compliance, including knowledge of federal regulations (e.g., Uniform Guidance, FDA, USDA, NIH) and health/safety standards.
• Experience with scientific review and research laboratory operations, including wet laboratories and animal care facilities.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to interpret complex regulations and provide sound judgment.

Preferred Education and/or Experience

• Advanced degree (master’s or PhD) in a relevant discipline such as research administration, life sciences, biomedical sciences, public health, or a closely related field.
• Experience administering IBC, Radiation Safety, IACUC, IRB, and health/safety programs in an academic or healthcare research setting.
• Familiarity with electronic research administration systems.
• Radiation safety training and certification as required by institutional policy or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire.
• Certified IRB Professional (CIP).
• Certified Professional IACUC Administrator (CPIA) preferred or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire.
• Biosafety-related certifications preferred; willingness to pursue if assigned.
• OSHA Laboratory Safety Certification.
• AALAS certification is preferred for animal care oversight.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Regulatory Expertise: Deep understanding of IBC, IACUC, IRB, Radiation Safety, and OSHA standards.
• Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects, timelines, and priorities effectively.
• Analytical Skills: Strong ability to interpret complex compliance requirements and develop solutions.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for policy development, training, and stakeholder engagement.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with electronic research administration systems and laboratory management tools.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify risks, troubleshoot issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Risk Assessment & Emergency Preparedness: Skilled in hazard analysis and response planning.
• Leadership: Skilled in supervising teams, fostering collaboration, and driving performance.
• Strategic Thinking: Aligns compliance and research operations with institutional priorities. 
• Decision-Making: Applies sound judgment in interpreting complex regulations and resolving compliance issues.
• Collaboration & Influence: Builds strong relationships across departments and external partners to advance research goals.
• Change Management: Leads process improvements and adapts to evolving regulatory requirements.
• Talent Development: Coaches and mentors’ staff to foster professional growth and high performance.
• Integrity & Accountability: Demonstrates ethical leadership and ensures transparency in compliance practices.
• Commitment to and alignment with DMU’s mission and values.

About Des Moines University:

Des Moines University has upheld a rich legacy of teaching, learning and service since 1898. Today, it is a premier medical and health sciences education institution comprising three colleges offering 11 graduate degree programs. The programs share a collective strength - a collaborative campus community where students and faculty come together in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation. With a strong foundation in educating exceptional health care professionals and delivering outstanding patient care through the Des Moines University Clinic, the university continues to create opportunities for future leaders and health care experts.

DMU combines the scale and resources of a comprehensive health sciences institution with the personalized attention that helps students thrive. More than 880 students are pursuing the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree, and over 1,500 students are enrolled across the university’s 11 academic programs. DMU fosters collaboration across its teaching, research, and service initiatives, from advanced simulation labs to the clinical programs at Des Moines University Clinic, all with a shared focus on advancing knowledge and improving lives. The university also demonstrates a strong commitment to student success, awarding more than $5.5 million in scholarships annually and supporting a robust alumni network of more than 16,000 graduates, including over 3,100 currently based in Iowa.

Current Degree Offerings:

College of Health Sciences

• Master of Health Care Administration (MHA)
• Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc)
• Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
• Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS)
• Master of Public Health (MPH)

College of Osteopathic Medicine

• Master of Anatomy (MSA)
• Master of Science Biomedical Sciences (MSBS)
• Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences (PhD)
• Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery

• Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM)

State-of-the-Art Facilities

• Our Campus: Opened in 2023 and spanning 88 acres at 8025 Grand Ave. in West Des Moines, Iowa, our cutting-edge campus combines academic excellence with access to the vibrant Greater Des Moines community.
• Des Moines University Clinic: Located at 3200 Grand Ave., the clinic provides invaluable clinical training for students while serving the community’s health care needs. The Des Moines University Regional Simulation Center at DMU32 Health and Business Complex also resides at this location.
• Future Ready: DMU’s progressive campus in West Des Moines encompasses award-winning sustainable design and cutting-edge learning spaces. Our facilities reflect our vision for the future of medical education.

About the Community:

West Des Moines, Iowa, home to DMU’s campus, offers a thriving metropolitan atmosphere and a diverse community of nearly 700,000. It is a city suburb just over 10 miles from the vibrant downtown center of Des Moines, Iowa’s capital. The region is home to 12 colleges and universities and nearly 300 houses of worship representing 79 different denominations or faiths.

Living in the Greater Des Moines area means having access to a variety of recreational opportunities. Miles of bike paths, numerous lakes and over 130 parks provide ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The area is known for its safe neighborhoods, excellent public schools and family-oriented events, attractions and programs. As one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the Midwest, Des Moines beams with community pride and accolades.

The region also offers a thriving arts and cultural scene, with live music, theater and arts events. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy cheering on local teams and the area hosts vibrant cultural festivals, farmers markets and shopping options. With a low cost of living, an abundance of employment opportunities and a high standard of living, the Greater Des Moines is an exceptional place to call home.

To learn more about our fantastic community, explore the following resources:

• Des Moines Rankings (Catch Des Moines)
• Most Recent DSM Rankings (Greater Des Moines Partnership)
• Awards & Recognitions for West Des Moines (City of West Des Moines)
• Relocate (West Des Moines City of Commerce)
• Living Here (Greater Des Moines Partnership)

Application and Nomination Process:

All correspondence relating to the position of Associate Director of Research Programs and Compliance at Des Moines University should be directed in confidence to the University’s executive search consultant:

Christopher S. Healy, President

Scott Healy & Associates

chris@scotthealy.com

A complete application should include the following:

1. Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;
2. Updated CV;
3. Contact information for three (3) professional references with title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)

Applications received by July 6, 2026 will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information and other characteristics protected by law (“protected class”).