University of Toronto’s Faculty of Information Actively Recruiting Strategic Research Development Officer

The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Information is seeking a Strategic Research Development Officer to bolster its research initiatives. This crucial role, based on the St.George (Downtown Toronto) campus, aims to enhance the Faculty’s research impact by securing tri-agency funding, cultivating industry partnerships, and fostering community-engaged research opportunities. The submission deadline is set for 11:59 PM ET on March 24, 2025. The Position Number is 00050075 and the Req ID is 42076.

The strategic Research Development Officer will be instrumental in advancing the Faculty of Information’s and the University of Toronto’s strategic research partnerships. This position is integral to the Faculty’s research Office,working to maximize the impact of research endeavors.As the Faculty of information approaches its centenary in 2028, it continues to build upon its established strengths in libraries, archives, and museums, integrating expertise from diverse fields such as engineering, computer science, and the social sciences.

About the Faculty of Information

The Faculty of Information at the University of Toronto is a leading research institution dedicated to educating future leaders in information scholarship and related professions. Consistently ranked among the top five Library and Information Management graduate programs globally by QS World University rankings, the Faculty prides itself on innovation, human-centered perspectives, and a commitment to community engagement.

The Faculty’s interdisciplinary approach combines scientific and technological expertise with social, political, and cultural perspectives. More information about the Faculty can be found on its website (ischool.utoronto.ca).

Responsibilities of the Strategic Research Development Officer

Reporting to the associate Dean,Research,and working closely with the CAO,the Strategic Research Development Officer will uphold the highest standards of professionalism and dedication. Collaboration with the Division of the Vice-President Research and Innovation (VPRI) is also expected. Key responsibilities include:

• Identifying, developing, and executing strategies for research and development collaborations.
• Building and strengthening relationships with stakeholders and partners of strategic importance.
• Researching and recommending new opportunities for external collaborations and partnerships.
• Delivering presentations to promote programs, opportunities, and/or initiatives.
• Tracking the status of partnership development initiatives, activities, and outcomes.
• fostering and maintaining networks to build capacity and collaboration.
• Planning and estimating financial resources required for programs and/or projects.
• Serving as a resource to a group or on a function.

Essential Qualifications

Candidates for the Strategic Research Development Officer position must possess a Master’s degree or an equivalent combination of experience. Additional qualifications include:

• Minimum five years of experience in research coordination within the disciplines of information, technology, and social sciences.
• Experience in communications, specifically within the disciplines of information, technology, and social sciences.
• A proven track record of partnering with researchers to generate new funding leads and managing complex research grants, preferably in an academic environment.
• Experience and success in writing proposals and applications for funding from sponsors such as NSERC, SSHRC, CFI, and agency matching programs.
• Demonstrated ability to review and improve draft proposals to meet agency requirements.
• Expertise in developing and advising on research funding strategies and implementing these strategies to increase research income.
• Experience developing and managing research budgets, with knowledge of financial planning to support researchers.
• Experience developing metrics, analyzing data, and providing statistical and research performance information.
• experience developing and delivering presentations to promote programs and initiatives.
• excellent interpersonal, oral dialog, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and negotiate effectively with senior leaders, researchers, and external bodies.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Knowledge of all aspects of the grants lifecycle, research funding strategies, applications, proposals, and compliance monitoring.
• Excellent research and analytical skills.

Assets (Nonessential)

Preferred, but not essential, qualifications include:

• understanding of Research ethics in concept and practise.
• Understanding of the academic research community.
• Knowledge of U of T’s Research Information System (RIS).

Qualities for Success

The ideal candidate will be:

• Articulate
• Diplomatic
• Insightful
• Proactive
• A problem solver
• Resourceful

Compensation and Appointment Details

This is a full-time, budget-continuing position within the USW employee group. The pay scale is USW Pay Band 15, with a salary range starting at $95,627 and progressing to a maximum of $122,290, subject to the Job Evaluation/Pay Equity Maintenance Protocol.

Lived Experience Statement

The University of Toronto encourages applications from candidates who are members of Indigenous, Black, racialized and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, persons with disabilities, and other equity-deserving groups.Lived experience will be taken into consideration as applicable to the position.

Closing Date

The deadline to apply for the Strategic Research Development Officer position is march 24, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET.

Unlocking Research Potential: An Exclusive Interview on the University of Toronto’s Strategic Research Growth Officer Role

Securing research funding isn’t just about money; its about shaping the future of knowledge itself.

Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading expert in academic research development, recently discussed the significance of the Strategic Research Development Officer role at the University of Toronto’s faculty of Information. This position is crucial for securing research grants and fostering collaborations.

According to Dr. Sharma,This position is indeed pivotal. In today’s competitive academic landscape, securing external funding is paramount for research institutions to thrive. The Strategic Research Development Officer acts as a crucial bridge, connecting researchers with potential funders and partners—a linchpin in driving impactful research across various disciplines.This role transcends simple grant writing; it involves strategic planning, relationship building, and navigating the complex world of research funding agencies and industry collaborations.

The job description emphasizes expertise in securing funding from organizations like NSERC, SSHRC, and CFI. Dr. Sharma elaborated on key strategies for enhancing grant proposal success rates.

winning grants requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, understanding the funder’s priorities is crucial. NSERC (natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada), such as, focuses on scientific advancement, while SSHRC (Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada) emphasizes social impact. Tailoring proposals to match each agency’s specific funding guidelines and interests considerably improves success rates. Secondly, robust research proposals are essential. They should clearly articulate the research problem, methodology, anticipated impact, and budget justification. Thirdly, building strong collaborative relationships with researchers is invaluable. A successful Research Development Officer acts as a resource, providing support throughout the grant lifecycle – from initial concept development and crafting compelling narratives to managing the administrative aspects of grant applications. she explained.

The position also emphasizes fostering industry partnerships. Dr. Sharma highlighted the mutual benefits of such collaborations.

Industry collaborations offer mutual benefits. For universities, these partnerships provide access to real-world problems, resources, and potential commercialization opportunities for research findings. This fosters a dynamic, innovative environment and strengthens the university’s connection to practical applications of its research.For industry partners, collaboration provides access to cutting-edge research and expertise, accelerating innovation, and potentially leading to new products, services, or processes. This reciprocal relationship is key to creating impactful research. Successful collaborations often involve clearly defined roles, responsibilities, intellectual property agreements, and ongoing dialog. Dr. Sharma stated.

The ideal candidate should have a proven track record of securing research funding, preferably in an academic environment.dr. Sharma outlined the specific skills and qualities that make a candidate stand out.

Beyond the technical skills (proposal writing, budget management, etc.), several crucial soft skills contribute to success. Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities are essential for building and maintaining relationships with researchers, funders, and industry partners. The ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely – both verbally and in writing – is paramount. Strong organizational and project management skills are also critical to juggle multiple projects simultaneously,adhering to strict deadlines and managing complex administrative tasks. Proactivity and resourcefulness are invaluable traits. A successful candidate anticipates challenges, seeks out opportunities, and demonstrates a problem-solving mindset. she noted.

The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Information is known for its interdisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from fields such as engineering, computer science, and social sciences. Dr. Sharma explained how this approach enhances research opportunities.

Interdisciplinarity enhances research impact by blending diverse perspectives and skill sets.This rich cross-pollination of ideas can lead to innovative research questions, more thorough methodologies, and broader impacts. For example,

securing the Future of Knowledge: An Exclusive Interview on the University of Toronto’s Strategic Research Advancement Officer Role

Is securing research funding the key to unlocking transformative discoveries in academia? The answer, according to our expert, is a resounding yes.

Interviewer (Senior editor, world-today-news.com): Dr. Anya Sharma, welcome. You’re a leading expert in academic research development. The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Details is actively seeking a Strategic Research Development Officer.can you explain the crucial role this position plays in the advancement of research and innovation?

Dr. Sharma: thank you for having me. The Strategic research Development Officer is indeed pivotal. In today’s competitive academic landscape, securing external funding is paramount for research institutions to thrive.This role acts as a critical bridge,connecting researchers wiht potential funders and partners—a linchpin in driving impactful research across various disciplines. it transcends simple grant writing; it’s about strategic planning, relationship building, and navigating the complex world of research funding agencies and industry collaborations. this individual is essential for the growth and sustainability of any research-intensive institution.

Interviewer: The job description highlights securing funding from organizations like NSERC, SSHRC, and CFI. What are some key strategies for enhancing grant proposal success rates?

Dr.Sharma: Winning grants requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, understanding the funder’s priorities is crucial. NSERC (Natural Sciences and Engineering research Council of Canada), for example, focuses on scientific advancement, while SSHRC (Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada) emphasizes social impact. Tailoring proposals to match each agency’s specific funding guidelines and interests substantially improves success rates. Secondly, robust research proposals are essential. Thay must clearly articulate the research problem, methodology, anticipated impact, and budget justification. Thirdly, building strong collaborative relationships with researchers is invaluable. A triumphant Research Development Officer acts as a resource, providing support throughout the grant lifecycle – from initial concept development and crafting compelling narratives to managing the administrative aspects of grant applications. Thorough readiness and a deep understanding of the funding landscape are key components for success.

Interviewer: The position also emphasizes fostering industry partnerships. What are the mutual benefits of these collaborations?

Dr. Sharma: Industry collaborations offer remarkable mutual benefits. For universities, these partnerships provide access to real-world problems, resources, and potential commercialization opportunities for research findings. This fosters a dynamic,innovative habitat and strengthens the university’s connection to practical applications of its research. For industry partners, collaboration provides access to cutting-edge research and expertise, accelerating innovation and potentially leading to new products, services, or processes. This reciprocal relationship is key to creating impactful research. Successful collaborations frequently enough involve clearly defined roles, responsibilities, intellectual property agreements, and ongoing dialog.

Interviewer: What specific skills and qualities would make a candidate stand out for this role?

Dr. Sharma: Beyond the technical skills (proposal writing, budget management, etc.), several crucial soft skills contribute to success. Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities are essential for building and maintaining relationships with researchers, funders, and industry partners. The ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely – both verbally and in writing – is paramount. Strong organizational and project management skills are also critical to juggle multiple projects together, adhering to strict deadlines and managing complex administrative tasks. Proactivity and resourcefulness are invaluable traits. A successful candidate anticipates challenges, seeks out opportunities, and demonstrates a problem-solving mindset.

Interviewer: The university of Toronto’s Faculty of Information is known for its interdisciplinary approach. How does this approach enhance research opportunities?

Dr. Sharma: Interdisciplinarity enhances research impact by blending diverse perspectives and skill sets. This rich cross-pollination of ideas can lead to innovative research questions, more thorough methodologies, and broader impacts. Such as, combining expertise from engineering, computer science, and social sciences can lead to the development of technology that addresses complex societal challenges more effectively. This collaborative environment fosters creativity and innovation that frequently enough results in groundbreaking discoveries.

Interviewer: What is your final thought on the importance of this role for the future of research?

Dr. Sharma: The Strategic Research Development Officer plays a vital role in fostering research excellence and innovation. This position isn’t just about securing funding; it’s about building bridges, establishing partnerships, and ultimately, shaping the future of knowledge itself. By connecting researchers with resources and opportunities, this role fuels revelation and empowers institutions to make substantial contributions to society.

Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Sharma,for these insightful perspectives. It’s clear that this position is critical for the advancement of research. We encourage our readers to share their thoughts on the importance of this strategic role in the comments below.