UTSI Research Scientist

University of Tennessee•Tullahoma, TN

About The Position

The Research Scientist provides senior-level leadership and oversight for complex research administration and operational functions at the University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI). This position supports institutional research objectives by managing high-impact research operations, ensuring compliance with university, state, and federal requirements, and coordinating resources to support faculty, principal investigators, and research staff across multiple programs This position is responsible for advanced research management functions requiring independent judgment, strategic decision-making, and coordination across academic, research, and administrative units. The Research Scientist oversees complex research operations, contributes to strategic planning, and ensures effective execution of research initiatives aligned with UTSI’s mission. The role requires a high level of discretion, collaboration, and technical knowledge related to research environments and compliance frameworks. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service. UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone. The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine. Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

Responsibilities

managing high-impact research operations
ensuring compliance with university, state, and federal requirements
coordinating resources to support faculty, principal investigators, and research staff across multiple programs
overseeing complex research operations
contributing to strategic planning
ensuring effective execution of research initiatives aligned with UTSI’s mission