Vice Chair of Research, Psychological Services & Behavioral Health Service Line / Senior Research Scientist

Rebecca D. Considine Research Institute (RDCRI), Akron Children’s

Position Summary:

The Rebecca D. Considine Research Institute (RDCRI) seeks a highly experienced and motivated clinical researcher to serve as Vice Chair of Research for the Psychological Services & Behavioral Health Service Line (“Service Line”) and as a Senior Research Scientist. This dual-role position integrates leadership, research, education, and administrative responsibilities to advance the mission of RDCRI and Akron Children’s.

The successful candidate will lead independent and collaborative research initiatives, oversee scientific resources, mentor junior scientists and trainees, and contribute to the strategic development of behavioral health research and education programs.

Key Responsibilities

Research Leadership

· Develop, maintain, and lead an independent, funded research program.

· Serve as Principal Investigator (PI) or Co-PI on multisite and institutional projects.

· Lead interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research teams.

· Design and oversee scientific studies, including protocol development, data management, and quality assurance.

· Identify and pursue funding opportunities; prepare and submit grant proposals and manuscripts.

· Disseminate research findings through publications and presentations.

Strategic and Administrative Oversight

· Participate in academic strategic planning for the Service Line

· Facilitate the academic professional development of clinical scientists within the Service Line as well as interdisciplinary research efforts

· Strategic recruitment of additional scientists and mentors

· Collaborate with internal academic partners and external institutions

· Serve on leadership committees and the Academic Steering Committee for the Service Line.

· Coordinate with finance and post-award teams on budgeting and expenditures.

Education and Mentorship

· Develop and supervise educational programs for students, residents, fellows, and allied health professionals.

· Mentor junior scientists, research assistants, and clinical faculty in research design, IRB submissions, and dissemination

Qualifications

Doctorate (PhD, MD/PhD, OD/PhD, OD, DMin).
Minimum 7 years of independent and collaborative research experience.
Proven track record of research funding and senior authorship in high impact journals.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Demonstrated success in mentoring and academic leadership.

Work Environment

Office, home office, and community settings.
Standard hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM; occasional evenings/weekends.
Must be able to lift/move up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Financial Support

Research and programmatic development are supported by Akron Children’s Foundation funds dedicated to behavioral health. Funding decisions are made in collaboration with the Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health and the RDCRI Director of Scientific Affairs & Clinical Trials.