The Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology at DFCI is a basic science department focusing on developing the next generation of cancer immunotherapies. We are firmly committed to creating a dynamic, collaborative environment where our faculty and trainees can thrive. This director-level role with the official title of Department Administrator (DA) is the senior administrator in our department who reports directly to the department chair. We are looking for a dynamic and collaborative individual committed to strengthening our scientific community.

The individual's general responsibilities encompass managing the business and administrative affairs of the Department, providing expertise in the areas of strategic planning, program development, research administration, finance (financial reporting and analysis, budgeting, expense control, and revenue enhancement), human resources, space maintenance, information systems, and contract/affiliation negotiations and management. In collaboration with the Chair and other senior management within the Department, the DA assists with developing and implementing departmental strategic initiatives. The DA will also support the Chair and faculty in the development and implementation of programs and policies; will plan, lead, organize, and direct the business affairs of the Department; and represent the Chair and Department in interfaces with Harvard Medical School, other departments, affiliate hospitals, and other external constituents. This position is expected to be onsite for at least 4 days per week.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Strategic Planning and Implementation

Work with the Department Chair to implement goals for the Department.

Coordinate faculty recruitment, including offer letters.

Communicate with department faculty and staff regarding Institute-wide strategic initiatives and policies.

Serve as a liaison to other departments and centers.

Leadership of Departmental Administrative Team

Recruit and train administrative staff to build an outstanding and collaborative team.

Coordinate all department administrative activities and provide administrative oversight.

Complete annual performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback for all administrative staff.

Provide career development opportunities to staff.

Address performance issues with assistance from Human Resources as needed.

Financial Management

Prepare and monitor operating budgets and identify and address budget issues.

Assess gaps in funding for investigators and develop potential solutions in collaboration with the Chair.

Manage and provide oversight of expenses.

Oversee grants, contracts, and discretionary/gift accounts.

Provide information on dollar density to the Chair and institute leadership.

Research Operations

Establish, implement, and monitor processes and procedures for research operations to ensure excellence.

Effectively utilize existing resources to best meet the needs of researchers.

Oversee maintenance and repair of departmental equipment.

Work with the Chair and other faculty to apply for shared equipment funds.

Negotiate and manage service contracts.

Troubleshooting/Process Improvement

Serve as the primary point of contact for resolving any issues within the Department.

Participate in Quality and Process Improvement project teams.

Pushes forward new initiatives and innovative ideas to present data to faculty and staff within the Department.

A bachelor’s degree is required, although a master’s degree in business or health care administration (MBA, MPH, MHA) is preferred.

A minimum of 5 years of research administration experience is required, preferably in an academic setting.

Managerial/supervisory experience is required.

Strong financial acumen, including knowledge of research grants and contracts.

Demonstrated ability to coordinate complex projects and balance budgets.

Proven ability to relate well to and work effectively with members at all levels of the organization, including faculty, trainees, and staff.

A steadfast commitment to and passion for excellent research support

Ability to work within a team setting and foster collaboration.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other groups as protected by law.

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