Project Development Lead

The University of Manitoba is a driving force of innovation, discovery and advancement. Our momentum is propelled by our campus community – UM faculty, staff and students whose determination and curiosity shape our world for the better. Our teaching, learning and work environment is uniquely strengthened and enriched by Indigenous perspectives. With two main campuses in Winnipeg, satellite campuses throughout Manitoba, and world-wide research, UM’s impact is global.

Discover outstanding employee benefits, experience world-class facilities and join a dynamic community that values reconciliation, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. We are one of Manitoba’s Top Employers and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. At the University of Manitoba, what inspires you can change everything.

The opportunity:

Bring your scientific expertise to the table and help shape the future of research at the University of Manitoba. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a PhD in the natural sciences, environment, or chemistry who thrives on big ideas and bold thinking. In this role, you’ll work at the intersection of science, strategy, and collaboration- transforming innovative research concepts into major, high-impact funding proposals (CFI, Canada Research Chairs, Horizon Europe, and more). You’ll partner with leading researchers and external collaborators to build interdisciplinary teams, identify new opportunities, and position UM at the forefront of global research challenges. If you’re passionate about translating complex scientific ideas into compelling visions and want to play a key role in advancing research at scale, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact.

The qualifications and experience we’re looking for:

The successful candidate will have a PhD in natural sciences (natural resources, environment, chemistry), and at least 7 years of related experience in research development and/or administration at a Canadian university, funding agency, or research-intensive, non-academic/industry association, or agency. The successful candidate will also have experience in developing bold visions, new research concepts, overseeing and guiding the development of interdisciplinary research, institutional research grants, proposal writing, and research facilitation services. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Skills & Abilities: Superior verbal and written communication skills. Excellent strategic and project management skills. Demonstrated experience writing/editing and proofreading technical materials. Ability to develop and maintain cooperative and productive working relationships with groups and individuals such as senior-level academics, researchers, administrators, and external partners. A team player. High degree of tact and diplomacy. Ability to think critically and troubleshoot complex problems. Strong time management skills, organizational skills, and flexibility to effectively prioritize and ensure completion of assigned work and change priorities as the need arises. Ability to give both academic-focused and external-focused presentations. Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Sound knowledge and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, internet applications, and database of complex information systems.

Why the University of Manitoba?

Along with being one of Manitoba’s top employers, we are proud to provide a collaborative and enriching work environment. In addition to a strong compensation package with a competitive salary, the University provides an exceptional workplace that includes: Comprehensive group benefits and pension plan. Competitive vacation time. Employee and Family Assistance Program. A full spectrum of professional development opportunities.

Apply today through the University of Manitoba’s recruitment site, UM Careers: https://viprecprod.ad.umanitoba.ca/DEFAULT.ASPX?REQ_ID=46936

Closing Date: July 10, 2026 Applications will only be accepted if you apply on UM Careers.

The University of Manitoba is committed to the principles of equity, diversity & inclusion and to promoting opportunities in hiring, promotion and tenure (where applicable) for systemically marginalized groups who have been excluded from full participation at the University and the larger community including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and other diverse sexual identities).

If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact UM.Accommodation@umanitoba.ca or 204-474-7195. Please note this contact information is for accommodation reasons only.

Application materials, including letters of reference, will be handled in accordance with the protection of privacy provisions of The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Manitoba). Please note that curriculum vitae will be provided to participating members of the search process.