ODoF announces new ranks for academic research managers

Written by
by the Office of the Dean of the Faculty
Feb. 7, 2024

The Office of the Dean of the Faculty (ODoF) has introduced two new ranks for researchers and specialists, recognizing those in leadership roles within their research groups. The titles of academic research manager (ARM) and senior academic research manager (SARM) are now available to current researchers or specialists who act as project leads or research team managers, highlighting the critical role they play initiating, organizing and supervising research projects.

Details regarding these ranks are available on the ODoF website, along with an appointment checklist.

To be considered for academic research manager, current researchers or specialists should have a minimum of three years of postdoctoral experience in a relevant field of academic research or inquiry. The majority of their duty time should comprise significant responsibilities in three or more of the following areas: leading academic research projects, research project/team management, developing methodology, analyzing data, and communicating academic/scientific research findings.

To be considered for senior academic research manager, a minimum of three years of experience in the academic research manager rank is required and at least eight years of postdoctoral experience in a relevant field of academic research or inquiry is expected. The majority of their duty time should comprise significant responsibilities in four or more of the following areas: leading academic research projects, research project/team management, developing methodology, analyzing data, and communicating academic/scientific research findings.

A review by the Committee on Appointments and Advancements for Professional Researchers and Professional Specialists (C7) is required for promotion or appointment to these ranks. The deadline for submitting documents for the ARM C7 review this spring is April 5, 2024. (The deadline for submitting documents for the C7 review for AY25 will be announced this spring.)

Questions regarding the new ranks can be directed to Bhavana Menon, talent engagement associate.