The Role
The Research Compliance Specialist is responsible for creating, developing, implementing, and promoting the Research Data Management (RDM) Program at KAUST. RDM training and management provide the foundation for the preservation, protection, and monetization of one of KAUST's most valuable resources (research data).
KAUST is an internationally respected research institution, and its reputation is dependent upon the good data management practices of its researchers.
A state-of-the-art RDM program developed and implemented by the Research Compliance Specialist will ensure that the University conducts research that meets or exceeds national and international RDM standards. By enabling the reuse of data and rationalizing resource allocation, RDM supports both research excellence and the optimization of operating costs. In addition, the reputation of the University is impacted by the RDM practices that its graduates and postdoctoral researchers take with them when they leave the University.
The Research Compliance Specialist will ensure that the University's students and postdoctoral
researchers leave KAUST adequately equipped to manage research data.
Responsibilities
- Serve as a subject matter expert on research data management (RDM) regulations, guidelines, and best practices.
- Promote a culture of responsible research data management across KAUST's diverse research environment.
- Analyze existing RDM systems and processes, identifying gaps and opportunities for integration.
- Develop and implement policies governing RDM at the University.
- Design, deploy, and manage RDM tools or solutions tailored to KAUST's needs.
- Coordinate and consolidate existing guidance, resources, and efforts across departments.
- Benchmark with external institutions and stakeholders to identify RDM best practices.
- Prepare guidance documents, online resources, and web content to support RDM practices.
- Provide strategic advice to stakeholders on implementing effective RDM practices.
- Develop course curricula and deliver training sessions, workshops, and presentations on RDM.
- Engage with faculty, staff, students, and administrators to foster compliance and awareness.
- Monitor, audit, and evaluate the effectiveness of the RDM program.
- Assist with investigations or enquiries related to alleged RDM mismanagement.
- Perform day-to-day administrative duties associated with the RDM program.
- Provide administrative support to other compliance programs, including: Animal Care and Use, Biosafety, Human Subjects Research, Radiation Safety, Scientific Diving, and Responsible Conduct of Research Programs.
- Be cross-trained and able to assist colleagues in the support of the above programs.
- Supplement administration of Research Compliance and RCR activities.
- Transcribing notes, minutes, and formal proceedings.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Doctoral or master's degree in a regulatory, scientific or related field.
Required Skills
- 6+ years of research data management experience within a scientific or related environment.
- Experience with RDM program administration is preferred.
- Customer-driven approach.
- Demonstrated expertise in RDM practices.
- Proactive and self-driven.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Collaborative nature with strong persuasive skills.
- A firm understanding of scientific practices and research methods.
- Knowledge of organizational and administrative support processes.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated proficiency with computer applications.
- Excellent verbal, written communication, and presentation skills.
- High degree of confidentiality.
