IT RC Software/Data Prof V

Harvard University - Boston, MA

Full-time - Senior

Hybrid - Boston, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Center for Geographic Analysis (CGA) at Harvard University is seeking a highly qualified individual to direct its operations. Established in 2006, the CGA supports research and teaching across all disciplines at the University, focusing on geospatial technology and methods. This position will involve strategic leadership, operational management, and the development of educational programs that enhance the use of geospatial analysis in research. The director will work closely with the Chair of the Faculty Advisory Group and the IQSS management team to set long-term goals and ensure the financial sustainability of the CGA. This includes seeking funding from various sources, cultivating relationships with the GIScience scholarly community and the geospatial industry, and collaborating with external research institutions and partners. In addition to strategic partnerships, the director will oversee CGA's service programs, which include research consultations, virtual helpdesk services, and the management of geospatial technology resources. The role also involves organizing educational programs such as annual symposiums, monthly seminars, and instructional activities to keep staff and students updated on the latest advancements in geospatial technology. The director will be responsible for evaluating and implementing university-wide site licenses for geospatial software, negotiating educational discounts, and managing complex computing infrastructure platforms. Financial management is a critical aspect of this role, requiring the director to develop annual budget plans, manage sponsored research accounts, and collaborate with faculty on grant proposals. The director may also serve as a Principal Investigator (PI) or Co-PI on research projects, ensuring compliance with grant obligations and publishing research outcomes as necessary. This position requires a strong commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, aligning with Harvard's mission and values.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic goals for the CGA with guidance from the faculty advisory group chair and IQSS management team.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with the GIScience scholarly field and the geospatial industry.
• Direct CGA operations including research consultations, virtual helpdesk, and operational databases.
• Monitor geospatial technology trends and guide staff to stay updated.
• Organize annual symposiums and monthly seminar series related to geospatial technology.
• Evaluate and implement university-wide site licenses for geospatial software and data.
• Manage CGA budgeting and appointments with support from the IQSS admin team.
• Develop grant proposals in collaboration with faculty and researchers.
• Manage sponsored research accounts and coordinate CGA activities to fulfill grant obligations.

Requirements

• Minimum of eleven years' post-secondary education or relevant work experience.
• Minimum of two years of mentoring or project management experience.
• Ph.D. in geographic information science or a related field strongly preferred.
• 10 years' progressing experience in geographic information science research and/or geospatial technology development strongly preferred.
• Thorough understanding of the life cycle of applying geographic analysis in research or operational settings.
• Experience in staff and budget management, customer and vendor relationship management, and grant application management.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in strategic decision making in research service center operations.

Benefits

• 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff).
• 12 accrued sick days per year.
• 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January.
• 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire).
• Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary caregivers.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources including on-campus childcare centers.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses.
• Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, and campus events.