Head of International Research and Engagement Services (IRES)

Position description

Working Title:Head of International Research and Engagement Services (IRES)

State Role Title: N/A

Position Type: Administrative & Professional (Non-teaching Faculty)

Position Status:Full-Time

FLSA Status:Exempt: Not Eligible for Overtime

College/Division:Vice President - REDI

Department:100305 - Research, Economic Development and Innov

Pay Band: N/A

Pay Rate: Commensurate with Experience

Specify Range or Amount:

Is this a JMU only position? No

Is this a grant-funded position? No

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? No

Beginning Review Date: 4/2/2026

About JMU:

Mission
We are a community committed to preparing students to be educated and enlightened citizens who lead productive and meaningful lives.

Vision
To be the national model for the engaged university: engaged with ideas and the world.

Who We Are
Situated in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the city of Harrisonburg is a vibrant community with a population of approximately 52,000. Harrisonburg is conveniently located approximately 120 miles from Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA.

JMU is a selective, public institution with a growing national reputation for offering experiences that lead to an outstanding education and supportive environment for students, faculty and staff. The student body includes approximately 21,000 undergraduate and 1,800 graduate students, with over 1,000 full-time instructional faculty.

JMU offers thriving programs in the liberal arts, science and technology, and professional disciplines at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels. JMU has achieved national recognition for the high quality of its academic programs, focus on maintaining strong student/faculty interaction, and innovative faculty research.

General Information:

The Head of International Research and Engagement Services, reporting directly to the Director of the Office of Research Integrity and Compliance, is tasked with overseeing the international research support and services unit in the Division of Research, Economic Development, and Innovation (REDI). Through this position, JMU commits to identifying the essential services and support structures vital for faculty, students, and the broader community to effectively undertake their international research initiatives and partnerships.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership:
  
  o Identify and disseminate funding opportunities with international research components that are in line with JMU research enterprise priorities.
  o Identify and track federal and private collaboration opportunities and conceptualize and develop international programs with domestic and international partners.
  o Review, analyze, and remain up to date on federal regulations and procedures affecting international research.
  o Research, recommend, and implement appropriate policies and procedures for conducting international research.
  o Assist with the development and implementation of workshops and other education programs, including programs related to international research and culturally responsive partnership approaches.
  o Serve as a liaison between sponsoring embassies, government, and agencies such as the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
  o Foster engagement with research collaborators and external entities, including hosting program officers and relevant visitors.
  o Other duties as assigned.
  
  • Strategic Initiatives:
  
  o Oversee and develop resources and toolkits to disseminate international regulations and FAQs related to international research and university partners.
  o Collaborate with other units in REDI.
  o Organize international exchange programs for delegations through the U.S. Department of State and other federal agencies.
  
  • Communication and Collaboration:
  
  o Maintain a comprehensive webpage offering resources, best practices, and information on international research.
  o Compile statistical data and information on international research at the university.
  o Coordinate an international research network connecting relevant university stakeholders.
  o Infuse JMU’s commitment to creating environments of belonging throughout the planning and processes within the office.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as international relations, public administration, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in international research support and project management.
• Familiarity with research funding mechanisms and grant proposal development processes.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and other relevant software applications.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently as needed.
• Commitment to promoting cultural humility in all aspects of international research support and services.
• Willingness to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Understanding of global issues and cultural sensitivities related to international research endeavors.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Master's or doctoral degree in a relevant field such as international relations, global studies, or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience in international research administration, preferably within a higher education institution or research organization.
• Demonstrated success in identifying and securing funding opportunities for international research initiatives.
• In-depth knowledge of federal regulations and compliance requirements related to international research.
• Experience in developing and implementing policies and procedures for international research activities.
• Proven ability to coordinate and execute large-scale international exchange programs and collaborations.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to oversee complex initiatives from conception to implementation.
• Excellent interpersonal and diplomatic skills with the capacity to foster relationships with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, international partners, and university personnel.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting, with the ability to compile and present statistical information effectively.
• Familiarity with export control regulations and their application to international research activities.
• Experience in supervising and mentoring staff in a research or academic setting.

Additional Posting Information:

JMU’s Dual Career and Community Resources Program is available for candidates that will be relocating to the area. For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/2OTF1NG.

Conditions of Employment:

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

Application instructions

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