School of Medicine - UAB Minority Health & Health Equity Research Center Co-Director Search

The University of Alabama at Birmingham - Birmingham, AL

Full-time - Senior

Birmingham, AL

About the position

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Minority Health and Health Equity Research Center (MHERC) is a prominent interdisciplinary research center dedicated to addressing health disparities and promoting health equity both locally and nationally. The Co-Director of the MHERC will play a pivotal role in leading the center's initiatives, requiring a deep understanding of health disparities and health equity research, as well as experience in mentoring and community engagement. The successful candidate will be expected to have a proven track record in securing federal funding from sources such as NIH, CDC, and PCORI, which is highly desirable for this role. The Co-Director will work closely with the MHERC Director to manage strategic planning and implementation of initiatives that align with the center's mission. This includes establishing partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions to ensure that the center's programs effectively meet the needs of the communities served. The Co-Director will also be responsible for assessing gaps in UAB's mission areas, identifying future opportunities, and providing strategic leadership for all aspects of the center. This role requires a dynamic leader who is passionate about improving minority health and health equity, capable of developing others, and committed to fostering innovation within the center. In addition to leadership responsibilities, the Co-Director will oversee program management, supporting the Center Director and Program Directors in defining program frameworks and evaluating strategies. The Co-Director will lead grant proposals, represent the center at various committees and conferences, and ensure that the center adapts to the evolving health equity landscape. The ideal candidate will possess outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, a commitment to research and educational missions, and a personal style that fosters collaboration and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Manage the strategic planning process and implementation of strategic initiatives for the MHERC in collaboration with the Director.
• Establish key community and business partnerships to support MHERC programs and ensure they meet community needs.
• Collaborate with multiple stakeholders to build strong relationships with MHERC staff and external organizations.
• Participate in staff recruitment, development, and retention activities.
• Act as Acting Director during the Director's absence, authorizing decisions as needed.
• Support the Center Director and Program Directors in defining program frameworks and evaluating strategies.
• Lead and facilitate growth to ensure MHERC adapts its capabilities to meet evolving health equity needs.
• Develop strategy, budget, and program plans for new and continuing initiatives in collaboration with donors.
• Lead grant proposals in conjunction with the MHERC Director and Program Directors.
• Represent MHERC on committees and at conferences.

Requirements

• MD and/or PhD degree(s) in health sciences, public health, social sciences, or a related field.
• Track record of NIH funding in health disparities research.
• Experience in strategic planning and implementation of Health Equity programs and projects.

Nice-to-haves

• Strong professional oral and written communication skills.
• Prior experience in donor and partner relations, particularly with NIH and CDC.
• 5+ years' experience with NIH grant funding and administration.
• Strong interpersonal and intercultural skills.

Benefits

• Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
• Support for work/life balance.
• Encouragement of applications from individuals with disabilities and veterans.