Career Center

A Brief Overview

Responsible for providing leadership and oversight to ensure high-quality strategic implementation of basic science, molecular, and clinical cancer research that will expand the Avera Cancer Institute research program. Directs and supervises research activities within the Avera Cancer Institute to provide high quality research to grow and support research across the oncology service line and increase referrals for research studies. In addition, is responsible for the functions of research areas and development/enhancement of relationships with internal/external customers involved in research that lead to bringing new research opportunities to Avera.

What you will do

• Directs and supervises research at Avera Cancer Institute and supports activities that include but not limited to all phase clinical trials, cancer genomics, bioinformatics, biomedical data science, and administrative support staff.
• Directly responsible and accountable for the core operations/function of each area as it relates to research policies, procedures and protocols, regulatory compliance, performance improvement, business plans, fundraising, financial/budgetary management, staff orientation and competency. In collaboration with the Clinical Vice President of Oncology and Vice President of Oncology, completes strategic and operational planning.
• Promotes growth of research operations that allow the organization to expand, enrich and advance the field of oncology research.
• Facilitates staff and resources to reinforce the vision of the Avera Cancer Institute, the hospital and health system. As a member of the leadership team, serves as a role model of the leadership principles resulting in positive communication and problem solving. Ensures lines of communication are open with staff, promoting high employee morale and a professional, healthful work environment.
• Serves as a clinical investigator by identifying, designing, managing, and directing investigator-led oncology clinical trials through positive collaborations with physicians, research staff, and pharmaceutical companies and other cooperative groups or organizations.
• Stewards growth in the relationships between Avera, physician partners, academic institutions and other collaborators across the United States and the world in the field of research through academic and professional appointments.
• Partners with leadership, medical directors and scientific personnel to acquire external funding at various levels to underpin high quality research and service activity.
• Works in conjunction with the Avera Foundation to develop and execute fundraising plans for designated research projects.
• Maintains an accurate and acute knowledge of industry regulations and compliance standards. Knows and addresses to applicable laws and regulations. Reviews and updates departmental policies, protocols and practices to reflect current regulations. In collaboration with the Avera Compliance assures the development and maintenance of research compliance with respect to protocols. Maintains professional affiliations and enhances professional growth and development to keep current in the latest trends in research administration.
• Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, developing, training, and retaining employees; planning, assigning, and leading work; appraising performance; rewarding and coaching employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Required Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

• Doctorate (PHD) or equivalent with related postdoctoral experience or
• Medical Doctor/Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (MD/DO) or equivalent with related postdoctoral experience
• 7-9 years Related experience at a senior level within a progressive research environment
• 4-6 years Related management experience
• Proven leadership success in implementing and guiding early phase oncology clinical research development