Now Hiring: Research Director

Location: Nashville, TN
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports to: Principal Investigators
Salary Range: $92,000 – $105,000 annually

Lead Meaningful Research That Improves Lives
Join Nashville CARES, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic across Middle Tennessee through prevention, treatment, advocacy, and compassionate care.

We are seeking an experienced and mission-driven Research Director to lead a major PCORI-funded research initiative focused on improving healthcare outcomes and advancing patient-centered research across multiple regions in the Southern United States.

This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative research leader who is passionate about public health, community impact, and evidence-based healthcare innovation.

Position Overview:

The Research Director will oversee the full lifecycle of a large-scale research project, including strategic planning, implementation, compliance oversight, stakeholder engagement, data management, and dissemination of findings.

This role partners closely with Principal Investigators, clinicians, analysts, community organizations, and cross-functional teams to ensure the successful execution of high-impact research initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:
Research & Project Leadership

• Lead all phases of the PCORI-funded research project
• Ensure project milestones, timelines, and deliverables are successfully achieved
• Drive strategic execution and operational oversight

Team Management

• Supervise and mentor research staff, analysts, and coordinators
• Foster collaboration, accountability, and professional growth within the team

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with advocacy groups, healthcare partners, and community organizations
• Ensure research initiatives reflect patient priorities and community needs

Data & Research Oversight

• Oversee data collection, management, and analysis activities
• Maintain high scientific, ethical, and methodological standards

Grant Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with PCORI guidelines, reporting requirements, and budget management
• Support regulatory and ethical research compliance processes

Publications & Dissemination

• Lead development of reports, presentations, and publications
• Help communicate research findings to both professional and public audiences

Qualifications:

• PhD or equivalent degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Services Research, or a related field
• 5–7+ years of experience leading health research initiatives and multi-site studies
• Experience managing PCORI-funded research strongly preferred
• Strong leadership and project management skills
• Experience with statistical and analytical tools such as SAS, R, or SPSS
• Excellent communication and stakeholder collaboration abilities
• Deep commitment to patient-centered and ethical research practices

Why Join Us?

• Make a direct impact in HIV prevention, care, and health equity
• Work alongside passionate professionals in a collaborative environment
• Contribute to innovative, community-focused healthcare research
• Access ongoing professional development opportunities

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Short- & Long-Term Disability Coverage
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• 27 Days Paid Time Off Annually
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program

Equal Opportunity Statement:
Nashville CARES is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are respected, valued, and empowered to succeed.