Assistant Vice President of Research Technology

Kansas State University (“K‑State”) seeks a collaborative and forward‑thinking leader to serve as Assistant Vice President of Research Technology (“AVP”). This role represents a critical opportunity to advance the University’s research mission at a time of significant growth and ambition. As a senior member of the Division of Information Technology and a key partner to the Office of the Vice President for Research (“OVPR”), the AVP will provide institution‑wide leadership for research technology strategy, operations, and innovation. Reporting to the Chief Information Officer, with dotted‑line reporting to the Vice President for Research, this role will ensure that research technologies are secure, scalable, and aligned with K‑State’s strategic priorities.

Founded in 1863 as the nation’s first operational land-grant university, the mission of Kansas State University is to foster excellent teaching, research, and service that develop a highly skilled and educated citizenry necessary to advancing the well-being of Kansas, the nation, and the international community. The university encourages engagement that is committed to the discovery of knowledge, the education of undergraduate and graduate students, and improvement in the quality of life and standard of living of those they serve. K-State is home to more than 90 research centers and institutes, including the 3,487-hectare Konza Prairie Biological Station and the Biosecurity Research Institute, which focuses on infectious diseases, as well as plant and food-borne pathogens. The Office of Research Development promotes and facilitates the research, education, and outreach missions of the university by supporting and administering activities involving extramurally sponsored programs.

The AVP will play a pivotal role in expanding and strengthening the University’s research enterprise at a time of great ambition at K-State with their Next‑Gen Strategic Plan. The Assistant Vice President of Research Technology will lead and mentor a team of IT professionals responsible for supporting the full spectrum of research technology services, including high‑performance computing, secure research environments, data systems, departmental applications, and core laboratory technologies. The role requires a leader who can balance operational excellence with future‑focused planning—overseeing maintenance, upgrades, and continuity of operations while building a team and also developing roadmaps that position K‑State for emerging research needs. A strong emphasis will be placed on cybersecurity, compliance, and alignment with university, state, and regulatory standards, ensuring that research systems are both resilient and trusted.

Collaboration sits at the heart of this position. The AVP will work closely with university leadership, faculty researchers, IT partners, and external vendors to ensure technology solutions effectively support the research lifecycle. This individual will serve as a bridge between technical teams and the research community, translating complex technology capabilities into practical, research‑enabling outcomes. By conducting risk assessments, benchmarking peer institutions, and monitoring technology trends, the AVP will guide informed decision‑making and foster the adoption of modern tools and best practices that enhance research productivity and competitiveness.

Through strategic planning, financial stewardship, and thoughtful project management, this leader will help ensure that research technology investments deliver measurable value and long‑term impact. The ideal candidate will be a trusted advisor, consensus builder, and visionary leader who understands the unique demands of a complex academic research environment and is committed to enabling discovery, innovation, and collaboration across Kansas State University.

The anticipated compensation range for this role is $175,000 - $195,000.

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Applications (including CV/resume and cover letter), inquiries, and nominations should be submitted in confidence below.

Lindsay Gold is leading this search with Kristen Andersen and Julia Hochner.

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran