Associate Director, Western Rural Development Center

The Associate Director leads highly specialized and multifaceted research and Extension programs, directing the work of junior research and Extension scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and professional staff. The position plays a key leadership role in advancing the WRDC?s mission by supporting day-to-day operations, promoting collaborative multistate initiatives, and driving integrated research and outreach efforts across the western United States. This role combines advanced scientific expertise with strategic and administrative oversight. The Associate Director directs the work of junior research and Extension scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and research associates, establishing priorities, performance standards, and accountability systems. The individual is expected to serve as a principal investigator on sponsored projects. The position ensures that scientific findings are translated into practical, evidence-based applications that strengthen rural communities and inform policy and practice. The Associate Director maintains an independent research and Extension portfolio while often maintaining active research collaborations external to the university. The Associate Director collaborates closely with the WRDC Director and institutional partners to guide programmatic initiatives and facilitate integrated teams spanning research, education, and Extension functions.

Duties may include:

Selecting, developing, and managing research and Extension portfolios, with a focus on rural community and economic development. Support the WRDC Director in strategic planning, day-to-day management, and coordination of WRDC programs and operations. Hiring, training, and supervising a team of research and Extension support staff, postdoctoral fellows, and junior scientists, including performance evaluation. Assigning and managing designated research and Extension program space. Oversee technical and administrative aspects of funded projects, including budgeting, deliverable tracking, and reporting. Conduct original, applied research and perform complex analyses to inform community and regional development practices. Expected to lead and co-author peer-reviewed publications, Extension materials, and professional presentations. Review and provide consultation on scientific and Extension projects, proposals, or methodologies. Engage with partners, stakeholders, and community leaders to align research and outreach efforts with regional needs and priorities. Facilitate multistate and interdisciplinary collaborations that integrate research, education, and Extension functions. May mentor graduate students Other duties as assigned.