Senior Research Analyst

Senior Research Analyst serves as a strategic partner to fundraising teams, identifying and evaluating individuals, foundations, and corporations with the capacity and inclination to support Brown University. This role conducts in-depth research and sophisticated wealth analysis to advance institutional fundraising priorities.

Key responsibilities include preparing high‑level briefing materials for leadership and senior administrators; evaluating business affiliations and networks to inform prospect qualification and strategy; and delivering analytical insights that guide the cultivation of principal, major, and leadership‑level donors. The Senior Research Analyst interprets complex wealth indicators—including equity holdings, executive compensation, and complex asset structures—and translates findings into clear, actionable recommendations.

The role also conducts highly sensitive due diligence research on prospective and current donors, assessing potential reputational, financial, and legal risks. Using advanced research methodologies and AI‑enabled tools, the Senior Research Analyst ensures accuracy while upholding the highest standards of confidentiality and data governance.

Success requires sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to synthesize complex financial, professional, and biographical information into concise, strategic insights. The ideal candidate brings exceptional attention to detail, strong written and verbal communication skills, intellectual curiosity, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, along with a demonstrated ability to prioritize a dynamic workload.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in advanced research, development, fundraising, and/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, accurate materials under tight deadlines.
• Strong digital and technical proficiency, including advanced online search strategies, complex database use, and familiarity with tools such as iWave, Lexis Nexis, Candid, and Xapien; proficiency with Windows/Google Workspace.
• Ability to work independently with initiative and accountability while contributing effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities, solve problems effectively, and meet demanding deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills, engaging professionally with a wide range of stakeholders, demonstrating tact, diplomacy, and adaptability.
• High degree of professionalism, ethical awareness, and discretion, managing confidential information and applying sound judgment.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, working respectfully across varied perspectives.
• Strong financial analysis and information retrieval skills, assessing wealth indicators and philanthropic capacity among high‑net‑worth populations.

• Understanding of APRA Body of Knowledge prospect research competencies.
• Experience in nonprofit, higher education, or research environments, especially fundraising or development.

• Background check and education verification are required for all offers of employment.

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.