Summary:

The Rebecca D. Considine Research Institute (RDCRI) and the Division of Ophthalmology at Akron Children's Hospital seek an experienced clinical or translational researcher for the role of Developmental Vision Associate Scientist (DVS), equivalent to an academic Associate or Full Professor. The DVS will lead an independent research program, integrate research and clinical services within the Vision Center, and oversee educational initiatives for student scientists.

Responsibilities include securing funding, fostering collaborations, mentoring staff and trainees, guiding research design and IRB submissions, managing budgets and resources, and ensuring compliance with technical and safety standards. The DVS will represent the organization in external forums, maintain an adjunct faculty appointment at a regional academic institution, and demonstrate a commitment to excellence in research, education, and professional development. 

Responsibilities:

1. Lead and manage an independent clinical or translational research program, serving as PI or Co-PI on multisite projects.

2. Develop and maintain a funded research portfolio, including writing successful grant proposals and securing external funding.

3. Provide senior leadership for research projects, including study design, protocol development, data collection, fiscal oversight, and quality assurance.

4. Advance research in developmental vision science and foster collaborations with internal teams and external institutions.

5. Mentor and provide research opportunities for junior scientists, trainees, and allied health professionals; supervise educational programs in vision science.

6. Coordinate integration of research and clinical services within the Vision Center, including technical education and resource management.

7. Oversee dissemination of research findings through publications, presentations, and participation in major scientific meetings.

8. Participate in strategic planning for RDCRI and affiliated departments; contribute to leadership committees and organizational initiatives.

9. Organize and lead regular meetings for project updates, IRB status, and technical/safety compliance within the Vision Science Group.

10. Represent the organization in external technical forums and maintain an adjunct faculty appointment at a regional academic institution

Other information:

Technical Expertise

1. Extensive experience in pediatric ophthalmology surgical and diagnostic methods.

2. Strong track record of successful grant writing and securing research or educational funding.

3. History of publications in peer‑reviewed journals and presentations at major scientific meetings.

4. Expertise in designing studies, developing protocols, and managing research administration.

5. Proven experience with medical technology development, including design, prototyping, validation, and patenting.

6. Demonstrated ability to initiate and scale clinical or technological programs from concept to launch.

7. Background in managing complex, multi‑center clinical or research projects.

8. Experience leading international initiatives.

9. Excellent written and oral communication skills.

10. Competence in IRB preparation, submission, and compliance oversight.

11. Data collection, management, and quality assurance skills.

12.Ability to manage budgets and provide fiscal oversight.

Education and Experience

1. Education: Doctorate (PhD, MD/PhD, OD/PhD) in vision science or related field required

2. Licensure: None

3. Certification: None

4. Years of relevant experience: 5 years of independent/collaborative research experience in vision science required

5. Years of supervisory experience: 5 years of management experience in healthcare preferred.

Full Time

FTE: 1.000000

Status: Fixed Hybrid