UW–Madison Launches Search for Next Chief Research Administration Officer

The University of Wisconsin–Madison has officially launched a national search for its next Chief Research Administration Officer and Director of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (RSP), a key leadership position that will guide the university’s expansive research enterprise and support one of the nation’s most accomplished research communities. Apply by Jan. 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

The director will serve as a senior advisor to campus leadership and plays a central role in shaping the administrative infrastructure supporting faculty, staff, and students to pursue groundbreaking research—from proposal development to award management.

UW–Madison ranks fifth among American public universities for research expenditures and submits over 4,000 proposals each year, requesting more than $3.5 billion in funding. RSP manages about 10,000 active awards valued at nearly $4 billion.

“The director plays a critical role in helping the institution retain research funding, but also in helping researchers navigate the complexities involved with sponsored research by providing customer service qualities and removing administrative burdens so researchers can focus on their research,” says Dorota Brzezinska, vice chancellor for research. “I am grateful to the search and screening committee for their efforts in supporting this search.”

The search committee is chaired by Mark Rickenbach, interim associate vice chancellor for research policy and integrity, and professor of forest and wildlife ecology; and includes Dave Rothamer, associate dean for research and professor of mechanical engineering; Troy Runge, associate dean for research and extension, and director of the Wisconsin Agricultural Experiment Station; Lauren Bishop, associate professor of social work and member of the University Research Council; Brigid Daly, senior university legal counsel; Christy Schulz, research administration director for the School of Medicine and Public Health; John Varda, assistant dean for research services in the College of Letters & Science; and Bob Gratzl, assistant director of RSP.

Under the leadership of the Vice Chancellor for Research, the director will develop strategic and operational planning for a team of about 110 employees; advise stakeholders in research and sponsored programs; and provide vision for the pre- and post- award functions of RSP, including: proposal submission, negotiations of sponsored research agreements, non-funded agreements, clinical trials, fee for service agreements, awards acceptance and setup, financial oversight, invoicing, reporting, audit, and closeout. In addition to being responsible for the complete cycle of actions for proposals and awards, RSP is responsible for policy development for all sponsored programs at UW–Madison and for preparing the University’s F&A proposal.

As the university strengthens partnerships across Wisconsin and around the world, the Director will help ensure that research administration systems remain responsive, efficient, and aligned with institutional priorities.

The director also will collaborate closely with schools, colleges, centers and institutes to support a research environment that is both highly productive and compliant with federal, state and sponsor requirements.

UW–Madison is seeking candidates with deep experience in research administration, a strong record of organizational leadership, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and service‑oriented culture. The ideal candidate will bring a strategic mindset, the ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes, and a passion for enabling world‑class research.