Scientific directors oversee research facilities, managing staff, overseeing procedures, and interacting with the public. They recruit and retain staff, allocate resources, review study designs, and manage budgets. A Ph.D. and at least five years of experience are typically required.
A scientific director acts as the administrative overseer of a research facility, reporting to the executive staff. Large facilities may have multiple directors to handle different departments and disciplines. Scientific directors manage staff, oversee procedures, participate in study design, and interact with members of the public with interests or concerns about the functioning of the organization. It is usually necessary to have a Ph.D. or Ph.D. to work in this field. Many job sites are also looking for candidates with at least five years of experience in positions as lead researchers.
Running a research center can involve a wide variety of tasks. A part of a science director’s job is recruiting to attract staff, particularly leading researchers who do work that fits the organization’s mission. Employee retention is also important. Scientific directors work with benefits and other incentive programs to retain staff. They also develop documentation to provide guidance to personnel so that they understand the standards and practices at the facility.
Researchers can discuss proposals and projects with the scientific director, who can decide what resources to allocate and whether to go ahead with the study. Directors may also sponsor grant requests and other requests for assistance. If there are ethical concerns about a study involving living subjects, the research director may participate in reviewing the study design and practices to confirm that it will comply with facility regulations and standards. Communication with other executive officers to inform them of ongoing research activities is also important.
The budget can also be part of the work. A scientific director can prepare or revise a budget, discuss laboratory earnings, and work on new revenue streams to keep research operational. This could include applying for grants, working with pharmaceutical companies, or seeking government funding for critical research. The budget may also include discussions of equipment purchases, hiring and compensation practices, and other matters that may affect expenses in a laboratory.
As an administrator, the scientific director can periodically roam the lab to meet staff and see them at work. Travel may be required to communicate with others in the field, attend events, and meet with potential researchers and government representatives. Administrative support from a secretary or personal assistant is often available to help the scientific director complete tasks. Benefits may depend on the employer, but may include medical care, paid time off, and participation in pension and retirement accounts.
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