The Research and Development (R&D) Planning Officer is responsible for supporting the strategic planning and coordination of research and development activities within the organization. This role involves working closely with the R&D team, project managers, and other stakeholders to ensure effective planning, monitoring, and reporting of R&D projects. The R&D Planning Officer plays a crucial role in facilitating efficient project execution, resource allocation, and performance tracking to achieve the organization's research objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborating with R&D managers and project teams to develop detailed project plans, including objectives, deliverables, timelines, funding, equipment, and materials, to support R&D projects and resource requirements. Ensure alignment of project plans with the organization's strategic goals and priorities

• Establishing monitoring mechanisms to track the progress, milestones, and outcomes of R&D projects. Regularly report on project status, key performance indicators, and potential risks or issues. Provide timely updates to relevant stakeholders, including senior management.

• Identify and assess potential risks and challenges associated with R&D projects. Collaborate with project teams to develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans. Monitor and proactively address risks to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between R&D teams, project managers, and other departments or stakeholders involved in research projects. Coordinate meetings, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions to promote cross-functional collaboration.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date project documentation, including project plans, reports, meeting minutes, and other project-related materials.  

• Identify opportunities for process improvements and streamlined project management practices within the R&D department. Recommend and implement tools, methodologies, or technologies to enhance project planning and monitoring efficiency.

• Ensure adherence to ethical standards and regulatory requirements in research activities. Stay updated on relevant regulations and industry best practices related to R&D planning and project management.

• Engage with internal and external stakeholders, including research partners, funding agencies, and regulatory bodies, to ensure alignment, collaboration, and compliance in R&D projects. Establish strong relationships and effectively manage expectations.

• Support the development and management of the R&D budget. Collaborate with finance and R&D managers to track project expenditures, manage budget variances, and provide financial reports or projections as required.

Job Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as business administration, project management, or science-related disciplines. Advanced degrees or certifications related to project management or R&D management are a plus.

• Proven experience in project planning, coordination, or management, preferably in an R&D or scientific environment.

• Knowledge of project management methodologies and tools, such as Agile, Scrum, or Six Sigma.

• Familiarity with research and development processes and the challenges associated with R&D projects.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to proactively identify and address project-related issues.

• Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with a keen attention to detail.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and build strong relationships.

• Understanding of ethical considerations and regulatory requirements in research activities.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

• Strong commitment to continuous learning and keeping up with industry trends and advancements.

How to Apply

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