Director, Research & Science

Department: 01491 - Assoc. VP Research Integrity Responsibilities: Engage and seek feedback from key stakeholders and oversee committee/board activities and involvement. Work with the CMCR staff to organize evidence-based literature reviews and develop plans for dissemination to researchers, providers, policymakers, and the public. Lead research committee in developing medical cannabis best practices and guidelines for implementation in the medical cannabis program. Serve as an institutional representative to the University, community, external visitors, and lawmakers, and provide information and analysis to support formal partnerships with external entities. Identify federal and philanthropic opportunities for funding, develop and successfully acquire grants, and lead faculty researchers to develop research/clinical/community teams interested in responding to funding opportunities. Oversee the development and execution of the annual seed grant program to catalyze innovative cannabis research concepts. Work with the senior manager to develop community engagement events (i.e., annual symposium, workshops, seminars, etc.) while maintaining oversight of related budgetary requirements. Create networking and collaborative research opportunities with external partners and national cannabis research centers. Complete annual evaluations and reporting activities to the HRO and Utah State Legislative bodies and oversight committees. Develop faculty and training mentorship opportunities. Foster a collaborative and translational approach to research, creating a culture of fairness and belonging in H.B. 230. Job Summary: The University of Utah seeks a Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Research Click here to view position profile: https://summitsearchsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/UU_Dir_CMCR_Profile.pdf The Position: The University of Utah is seeking a nationally recognized cannabis researcher to serve as the Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Research (CMCR). The Director will organize, implement, and oversee scientific and administrative aspects of the CMCR, in partnership with the Health Research Office (HRO), as well as CMCR’s senior manager, the steering committee, the external advisory board, and key collaborators. The Director will develop and implement a wide range of strategic, proactive, and capacity-building activities that enable and enhance cannabis-related research, and coalesce researchers across the state to inform health care providers, lawmakers, and the general public about evidence-based practices for medical cannabis. The Director will lead the strategic planning and execution of the CMCR. In addition, this role will serve as a liaison for CMCR engagement and interactions with the Office of the President’s government relations staff and Utah State legislative bodies. The ideal candidate will lead committees focused on 1) assessing the impact of advancements within the field, 2) communicating evidence-based research and outcomes to the legislature and public, 3) participating in appropriations request development and testimony, and 4) ensuring alignment and strategic implementation of H.B. 230 directives. To Apply: The responsibilities and qualifications described in this profile are intended to provide an understanding of the role and the types of skills, experience, and education that may have prepared someone to be effective in this position. We do not expect any candidate to be a perfect match for this list or to perform duties with equal proficiency on day one. In your CV and cover letter, please highlight the most relevant qualifications you would bring to this position based on the posting, and tell us how your background, perspective, and experience would contribute towards fulfilling the Center’s mission and meet our goals. A confidential review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled; parties who apply by August 7, 2026 will be given first…