Program Manager, Research and Creative Excellence

Job Overview

The Graduate College is seeking a Program Manager to enhance support for graduate research and creative works at the University of Cincinnati (UC). The role involves tracking graduate student research impact, leading programming to increase the profile of graduate student research and creative activities, and providing wraparound support for graduate student researchers, scholars, and artists.

The Program Manager will oversee the Graduate College’s signature research and creative works programs including the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, Research + Innovation Week, and workshops. The position may require occasional evening and weekend availability.

• Serve as a liaison facilitating communication and collaboration among multiple units and constituents to support research and creative works programs.
• Provide comprehensive administrative and programming support, including program and event planning, office operations, record maintenance, data organization, analysis, and preparation of surveys, reports, outreach materials, and correspondence.
• Organize, plan, and prepare students for participation in signature events, including the international 3MT competition.
• Facilitate programming for graduate student communities of practice, workshops, Research + Innovation Week, and related initiatives.
• Design and facilitate workshops, seminars, or boot camps focused on research skill development (literature reviews, data management, data analytics, ORCID, research repository databases).
• Maintain a database of internal and external funding opportunities for graduate students, including fellowships, grants, awards, and scholarships.
• Partner with faculty advisers and program directors to identify skill gaps and develop targeted programming.
• Demonstrate initiative, independent decision-making, and professionalism while providing event management and support.
• Collaborate with Graduate College administrative staff to facilitate program development and event planning.
• Provide outstanding customer service in a fluid environment serving diverse constituents.
• Maintain accuracy and handle confidential material in accordance with university policies and federal regulations.

• Master’s degree in a research or creative field (e.g., social sciences, arts, natural sciences, humanities) preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree required.

• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in higher education, research administration, grant writing, arts administration, or a related professional role.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the graduate research process and/or creative practice in an academic setting.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent priorities and projects.

• Personal experience applying for and/or receiving competitive research, scholarship, or creative works funding (e.g., NSF, NEH, NIH, Fulbright, ACLS, Mellon Foundation).
• Familiarity with research compliance processes, including IRB and IACUC, and their relevance to student researchers.

Office environment; no specific unusual physical or environmental demands.

Provides tuition remission for the employee and eligible dependents, covering tuition costs for nearly all undergraduate and graduate programs offered by the university.

Retirement plans: options between state pension plans (OPERS, STRS) or an Alternative Retirement Plan (ARP) with UC contributing 14–18% of salary.

Work‑life balance: generous time‑off policy including vacation, sick time, 11 paid holidays, additional end‑of‑year paid time off (Winter Season Days), and 6 weeks of paid parental leave for new parents.

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription).
• Flexible spending accounts & wellness programs.
• Professional development & mentorship opportunities.

UC is an E-Verify employer. Successful applicants will be required to provide satisfactory proof of employment eligibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer. UC is committed to inclusive hiring, including Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans.