Manager Research Compliance

Manager Research Compliance – Khalifa University

Location/Place/Mode

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Legal or other related academic discipline with knowledge of relevant laws; minimum 12 years of relevant experience

In the dynamic ecosystem of modern academia, research compliance has evolved from a back-office necessity into a strategic pillar that upholds institutional integrity, safeguards public trust, and unlocks international collaboration. Khalifa University, a leading research-intensive institution in Abu Dhabi, is now seeking a seasoned professional to step into the pivotal role of Manager Research Compliance
. This is not just another compliance job; it is a leadership position that sits at the intersection of legal acumen, operational excellence, and academic innovation.

The role is designed for someone who understands that compliance is not about saying “no” but about enabling world‑class research within a framework of rigorous ethical standards. By joining Khalifa University, you will be part of an institution that is rapidly ascending global rankings, with a clear mandate to drive impactful research in energy, aerospace, healthcare, and artificial intelligence. This position offers a rare opportunity to shape the compliance culture of a major university, influencing everything from laboratory protocols to multi‑million‑dollar grant fulfillment.

“The Manager, Research Compliance and Training is responsible for overseeing the Research Compliance as well as providing training on Research guidelines and procedures.”

This opening is more than a job listing—it is a call for a leader who can navigate the complex regulatory frameworks of the UAE and beyond, while fostering an environment where researchers can thrive ethically and efficiently.

The responsibilities outlined in the job description reveal a multifaceted role that goes beyond routine audits. As the Manager Research Compliance, you will be the architectural brain behind Khalifa University’s compliance infrastructure. Your core duties will encompass:

• Strategic Development: Contributing to the department's strategy and annual business plans, ensuring alignment with the university's overarching mission.
• Policy Leadership: Drafting, updating, and implementing policies and procedures that promote best practices and reflect the latest legal and ethical standards.
• Regulatory Liaison: Coordinating with local government agencies including SEHA (Abu Dhabi Health Services) and DOH (Department of Health) to ensure regulatory compliance and stay abreast of changing laws.
• Training Architecture: Designing and delivering comprehensive training programs for faculty, staff, and researchers, covering everything from research integrity to conflict of interest.
• Committee Governance: Managing compliance committees and serving as an ex‑officio member where appropriate, ensuring smooth operation of ethics review boards.
• Risk Reporting: Preparing summary reports for management, highlighting potential compliance concerns, recommended actions, and required support.

These responsibilities are not siloed; they demand cross-functional collaboration. You will work alongside finance officers, laboratory managers, research project leaders, and even department administrators. This is a role for someone who can communicate complex regulatory requirements in plain language and build consensus across diverse academic audiences.

The formal eligibility criteria are straightforward: a Bachelor’s degree in business administration, legal studies, or a related discipline, combined with a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience. However, the true profile of an ideal candidate goes beyond these minimums. Here is what the university is likely looking for:

• Legal Acumen: Since the degree can be in Law, professionals with a legal background and a focus on research or healthcare regulations are particularly attractive.
• Experience Depth: 12 years is not just a number; it suggests that you have weathered…