Director
Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program
Oakland - 20060017

SALARY:  Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

CLOSE DATE: 11-30-06

ABOUT: Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP), which is a unit of the UCOP Division of Health Affairs supports research that focuses on the prevention, causes, and treatment of tobacco-related disease and the reduction of the human and economic costs of tobacco use in California.  For more information on the department, please see the website at Special Research Programs

PLEASE NOTE:  Successful completion of a background check is required for appointment to this critical position.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The Director of the Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP) manages a large and complex State-funded program that awards and administers research grants on tobacco-related disease and tobacco control to investigators at institutions throughout California.  TRDRP is a program of the University of California, Office of the President, which is the corporate headquarters of the ten-campus system, located in Oakland. TRDRP’s portfolio of active grants comprises approximately 200 awards totaling $80 million to 35 institutions, which span a wide range of scientific disciplines, from molecular and cell biology through the clinical and social/behavioral sciences to public health and public policy.  The current annual state appropriation, $14 million, will more than triple if a ballot initiative to increase the state tobacco tax passes in November. The director reports to the Executive Director for Special Research Programs and works closely with the program’s Scientific Advisory Committee and the state’s Tobacco Education and Research Oversight Committee.  The director develops and implements TRDRP’s plans and policies to reflect the program’s research priorities and to adhere to the statutory mandate in the State Health and Safety Code.  The Director takes a lead in coordinating and promoting tobacco-related research in California in order to enhance and further define TRDRP’s research and public service mission.  The Director represents TRDRP to its stakeholders and fosters and maintains close working relationships with diverse organizations and leaders in tobacco-related issues, both in California and nationwide.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:  A doctoral degree in a health-related research field (e.g., biological science, social/behavioral science, epidemiology, public health).  Demonstrated knowledge of the scientific, clinical, societal, fiscal, and political issues related to tobacco use research.  In-depth management-level experience in the following areas: 1) research; 2) research award program administration, including strategic planning, grant application solicitation and peer review, and award funding; 3) successful interactions with policy advisory groups and a broad spectrum of program stakeholders; 4) managing program budgets; and 5) organizing, recruiting, training, evaluating, and retaining a diverse professional and clerical staff.  Demonstrably excellent skills in policy analysis and oral and written communication.  Proven ability to work cooperatively as a team member.