Research Project Manager

Description

Robert Half is partnering with our client, a global leader in digital media and entertainment technology, to identify a Research Project Manager to support a high-impact research and innovation organization. This role will drive the coordination and execution of research investment programs in collaboration with universities, industry collaborators, and standards organizations. The ideal candidate brings strong experience managing research partnerships, academic collaborations, and publication programs while operating in a fast-paced, highly innovative environment.

Duration: 7-month contract

Location:

Seattle, WA (Onsite)

Pay Rate: $70-73/hour

Hours:

40 hours/week

Position Overview:

The Research Project Manager will coordinate strategic research initiatives across internal teams and external partners, including universities, industry standards bodies, and research collaborators. This role focuses on establishing scalable processes, aligning research investments, and supporting publication and conference engagement strategies. The Research PM will collaborate closely with scientists, research leaders, and external institutions to ensure programs are executed effectively and aligned with broader organizational goals.

The ideal candidate brings strong program management experience, academic partnership expertise, and the ability to communicate complex research initiatives to senior leadership.

Key Responsibilities:

+ Drive coordination and execution of research investment programs across multiple teams and external academic and industry partners

+ Establish standardized processes, guidelines, and goals to scale research initiatives across teams and geographies

+ Manage relationships with universities, research institutions, and external collaborators, including negotiating contracts and partnership agreements

+ Coordinate research publication pipelines, conference participation, and engagement with industry standards organizations

+ Facilitate research program reviews with senior scientists and leadership to assess progress and align initiatives with business and customer outcomes

+ Prepare executive business reviews, program updates, and strategic recommendations for senior leadership

+ Track program milestones, set deadlines, assign responsibilities, and summarize progress for stakeholders

+ Identify opportunities to improve research program efficiency and scalability

+ Support strategic hiring initiatives including research scholars and intern programs

+ Facilitate cross-organizational discussions on research priorities, program direction, and risk management related to publications, patents, and research outputs

+ Organize and support biannual science summit events, including coordination of training programs and collaboration sessions for research teams

+ Monitor research outputs including publications, patents, and collaboration outcomes, ensuring alignment with organizational strategy

Requirements

Qualifications:

+ Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred

+ 10+ years of experience in program or project management supporting research, technology, or innovation initiatives

+ Demonstrated experience managing academic partnerships, university research programs, or industry research collaborations

+ Experience negotiating contracts and building relationships with universities or research institutions

+ Experience managing research publications, conference engagement, or academic collaboration programs

+ Strong ability to use data, metrics, and reporting frameworks to drive program improvements and strategic decision-making

+ Proven ability to manage complex cross-functional programs with multiple stakeholders

+ Experience preparing executive-level communications, presentations, and business reviews

+ Familiarity with intellectual property considerations such as publications, patents, and research risk management preferred

+ Financial management experience supporting research programs or grants is a plus

+ Experience working in large, fast-paced, ambiguous environments preferred

The pay range for this position is $70-73/hour. Benefits available to contract/temporary professionals, include medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan.

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