Now Hiring: Research Director

Location: Nashville, TN
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports to: Principal Investigators
Salary Range: $92,000 – $105,000 annually

About Nashville CARES:
Nashville CARES is a leading nonprofit organization in Middle Tennessee committed to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Through integrated services, including prevention, treatment, and holistic support, we work to improve the lives of individuals at risk and those living with HIV. Our mission is driven by a strong focus on education, advocacy, and access to quality healthcare. Learn more at www.NashvilleCARES.org

Position Overview:
The Research Director will oversee and lead all activities related to a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI)-funded project. This role is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of the research initiative, from planning and execution to reporting, ensuring alignment with grant requirements, timelines, and objectives.

This position works closely with Principal and Co-Investigators, as well as cross-functional teams including clinicians, analysts, and community partners. The Research Director will play a key role in advancing patient-centered research initiatives across multiple regions in the Southern United States, with the goal of improving healthcare practices and outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:
Research & Project Leadership

• Direct the planning, implementation, and oversight of the PCORI-funded project
• Ensure all activities align with project goals, milestones, and timelines

Team Leadership

• Manage and mentor research staff, including analysts and coordinators
• Support team development and ensure high-quality deliverables

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Partner with community organizations, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders
• Ensure research efforts reflect patient needs and community priorities

Data Oversight

• Supervise data collection, management, and analysis processes
• Ensure adherence to rigorous scientific and methodological standards

Grant & Compliance Management

• Monitor compliance with all PCORI requirements, including reporting and budget tracking
• Maintain adherence to ethical and regulatory standards

Research Dissemination

• Lead the development of publications, presentations, and reports
• Collaborate with communications teams to share findings with both technical and general audiences

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to enhance research efficiency and impact
• Stay current on industry trends and best practices in patient-centered outcomes research

Qualifications:

• PhD or equivalent in a relevant discipline (e.g., Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Services Research)
• 5–7+ years of experience in health research, including managing multi-site studies
• Experience with PCORI-funded projects strongly preferred
• Demonstrated leadership and project management capabilities
• Strong analytical and statistical skills (experience with tools such as SAS, R, or SPSS)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders
• Strong commitment to ethical research and patient-centered methodologies

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a mission-driven organization making a meaningful impact in HIV prevention and care
• Contribute to work that directly improves lives and health outcomes
• Access professional development opportunities in an inclusive and supportive environment

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• Short- and long-term disability benefits
• 403(b) retirement plan
• 27 days of paid time off annually
• 12 paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program

Equal Opportunity Statement:
Nashville CARES is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We value and respect individuals of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.