EVP Research

EVP Research Req Number:

FQM4

GB Location:

North Chicago, IL Posted:

4/23/2026

Category:

Government/Not-For-Profit :

Education Job Type:

Permanent

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Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate‑only health sciences university with a deep commitment to scientific rigor, interprofessional education, and discovery that improves health and wellness. With the arrival of a new President in late 2025 and continued investment in research infrastructure, RFU is poised for its next phase of research growth and is seeking an Executive Vice President for Research (EVPR) to serve as its senior research leader. This is a compelling opportunity for a research executive who is motivated by institutional impact—someone who wants to shape direction, strengthen foundations, and enable faculty and students to thrive in a focused, sustainable research environment. The Opportunity Reporting directly to the President and serving as a member of the President's Cabinet, the EVPR is the University's chief steward of the research enterprise. This leader will set and execute a cohesive research strategy; strengthen the operating and financial model; and ensure regulatory excellence, accountability, and long‑term sustainability across the institution's research ecosystem. RFU has invested meaningfully in its research platform, including a modern Innovation and Research Park and Helix 51, a bioscience incubator that connects academic research with industry and translational opportunity. The EVPR will be expected to assess the current research landscape, align people and resources with strategy, and selectively expand research activity beyond traditional models—while honoring RFU's collegial culture and values. Key Responsibilities The Executive Vice President for Research will: Provide enterprise-wide leadership for research strategy, infrastructure, compliance, and financial sustainability. Develop and execute a multi‑year research plan aligned with institutional priorities and capacity. Oversee the full research ecosystem, including sponsored research administration, research integrity and compliance, safety and regulatory functions, core facilities, and research support laboratories. Strengthen research financial transparency, metrics, and data‑informed decision making. Expand and steward relationships with industry, government, philanthropy, and academic partners. Support faculty recruitment, development, and interdisciplinary collaboration across the University. Serve as a key advisor to the President, Cabinet, and Board of Trustees on research strategy and performance. Candidate Profile RFU seeks a highly respected academic research leader who brings credibility, sound judgment, and operational discipline.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

A distinguished record of scholarly achievement in a discipline aligned with RFU's research portfolio. Progressive senior leadership experience in a research-intensive academic or health sciences environment. Demonstrated success stewarding research resources, including extramural funding, partnerships, and institutional investment. Experience translating strategy into executable plans, scalable infrastructure, and sustainable financial models. A collaborative, diplomatic leadership style that balances vision with stewardship and accountability. The ability to represent the research enterprise effectively to diverse internal and external stakeholders. A doctoral degree in a relevant field is required. About Rosalind Franklin University Founded in 1912, RFU has a long-standing legacy of inclusion, interdisciplinary collaboration, and applied discovery. Today, the University educates more than 2,000 graduate students across over 30 health and biomedical programs and maintains a strong focus on interprofessional education, community engagement, and health equity. Application Process Korn Ferry is assisting Rosalind Franklin University with this search. Applications should include a curriculum vitae and a letter of interest addressing relevant experience and motivation for the role. All inquiries and nominations will be handled confidentially. •Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates, and will refer candidates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected basis. Artificial Intelligence tools may be used in connection with the recruitment process for this position. APPLY NOW