Nurse Scientist​/Director of Research and EBP

The Association for Nursing Professional Development (ANPD) is looking for an individual to add talent and expertise to the organizational structure of ANPD. We are currently seeking a full-time Nurse Scientist/Director of Research and EBP who will report directly to the ANPD Board of Directors with a focus on leading and coordinating research initiatives that advance our mission to support the professional development of nurses and nursing professional development (NPD) practitioners.

This individual will collaborate with the Director of Education and volunteer leaders to design and manage a variety of concurrent studies that inform ANPD's educational programs and strategic priorities.

Candidates should demonstrate a record of strong communication, strategic and analytical thinking, scholarly writing and dissemination, evidence-based decision-making and a strong commitment to advancing nursing professional development. Individuals interested in this position should also be able to function the following roles:

Research Leadership and Strategy

• Develop, manage, and execute ANPD’s research agenda in alignment with organizational goals and educational priorities.
• Design, coordinate, and oversee multiple research projects (e.g., surveys, role delineation studies, workforce analyses, outcomes studies) supporting ANPD’s education and practice initiatives.
• Collaborate with the Director of Education and volunteer leaders to identify emerging research needs within nursing professional development.
• Ensure all research activities comply with ethical standards and institutional review board (IRB) requirements as appropriate.
• Ensure alignment of EBP initiatives with organizational priorities
• Work with the Director of Education to facilitate and execute the ANPD EBP Academy.

Study Design and Implementation

• Develop research protocols, instruments, and data collection plans to generate meaningful, valid results.
• Lead data analysis and interpretation, applying appropriate quantitative and qualitative methodologies.
• Coordinate logistics and timelines for research studies, including contracting with external partners or consultants as needed.
• Maintain accurate records of project status, data management, and dissemination plans.

Scholarly Dissemination

• Prepare reports, manuscripts, and presentations to communicate research outcomes to internal stakeholders and the broader nursing community.
• Support publication of ANPD research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at professional conferences.
• Translate research findings into practical applications to strengthen ANPD’s educational offerings, professional development resources, and member value.

Collaboration and Integration

• Partner closely with the NPD team to ensure research outcomes inform curriculum design, competency frameworks, and continuing education programs.
• Serve as a resource for ANPD staff and members seeking guidance on research methods, evaluation strategies, and evidence-based practice.
• Represent ANPD in national research collaborations and coalitions related to nursing education and professional development.

Requirements

• Doctorate degree in Nursing, Education, Research, or related field required;
  PhD preferred (e.g., PhD, EdD, DNP).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in nursing or healthcare research, including design, implementation, and dissemination.
• Demonstrated expertise in both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Strong writing and analytical skills with a record of scholarly publication or presentation.
• Experience with educational research, professional development, or workforce studies preferred.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Familiarity with IRB processes and ethical standards for research.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficiency with data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R, NVivo) preferred.

Preferred Experience

• Strategic and analytical thinking
• Collaboration and communication
• Scholarly writing and dissemination
• Evidence-based decision-making
• Commitment to advancing nursing professional development

ANPD headquarters are located in Chicago – the Nurse Scientist/Director of Research and EBP position may work remotely from any location with some travel required.