Senior Research Analyst

Senior Research Analyst, Prospect Development

The Senior Research Analyst, Prospect Development, serves as a strategic partner to fundraising teams, identifying and evaluating individuals, foundations, and corporations with the capacity and inclination to support Brown University. The role conducts in-depth research and sophisticated wealth analysis to advance institutional fundraising priorities, producing high‑level briefing materials, evaluating business affiliations and networks to inform prospect qualification, and delivering analytical insights that guide the cultivation of principal, major, and leadership‑level donors.

The analyst interprets complex wealth indicators—including equity holdings, executive compensation, and complex asset structures—and translates findings into clear, actionable recommendations. The analyst also performs highly sensitive due diligence research on prospective and current donors, assessing reputational, financial, and legal risks, and uses advanced research methodologies and AI‑enabled tools to ensure accuracy while upholding confidentiality and data governance.

• Prepare briefing materials for leadership and senior administrators.
• Evaluate business affiliations and networks for prospect qualification and strategy.
• Deliver analytical insights to guide cultivation of major donors.
• Conduct sensitive due diligence on prospective and current donors.
• Ensure accuracy of research findings and maintain strict confidentiality.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in advanced research, development, fundraising, or market research.

• Expertise in research and analytical methods, gathering, evaluating, and synthesizing complex information from multiple sources.
• Advanced written communication and editing skills, producing concise materials under tight deadlines.
• Strong digital and technical proficiency, including online search strategies, database use, and familiarity with research tools such as iWave, Lexis Nexis, Candid, and Xapien.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating sound judgment and strong relationships.
• Project management skills to handle multiple projects and competing priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills, engaging professionally with diverse stakeholders.
• Professionalism, ethical awareness, and discretion in handling confidential information.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
• Financial analysis and information retrieval skills to assess wealth indicators among high‑net‑worth populations.

• Understanding of prospect research competencies as outlined by the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA).
• Experience in nonprofit, higher education, or research environments, especially in fundraising or development.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a successful criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown.

Please submit a resume and cover letter when applying for this position.

For information on benefits, please review the Benefits of Working at Brown program.

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance.

The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.