Director of the Institute of Cannabis Research

Posting number: GGJ-7132-04/26

Department: Colorado State University Pueblo

Job classification: NON-CLASSIFIED

Posting type: Open

Categories: Research, Higher Education, Sciences

Summary

The Institute of Cannabis Research (ICR) advances rigorous, unbiased cannabis research and publicly disseminates findings that inform policy, education, and practice by supporting innovative research across Colorado’s institutions of higher education, administering an annual statewide research funding competition, hosting an annual symposium, publishing an annual report, and supporting the development of cannabis-related curriculum and educational programs. Through collaboration with researchers, industry, government agencies, and community partners, the Institute works to expand research capacity, strengthen Colorado’s leadership in cannabis research, and advance evidence-based discoveries that benefit the state and the nation.

Examples of duties

The Institute of Cannabis Research seeks a dynamic and strategic leader to serve as its chief administrator and ambassador, providing vision, oversight, and direction for all Institute operations, partnerships, and initiatives. Reporting to the Provost, this position leads Institute staff, oversees daily operations, and manages state-appropriated resources to ensure the Institute fulfills its statutory responsibilities, including administration of a statewide research funding competition, hosting an annual research conference, preparation of legislative reports, and ongoing assessment activities. The position is responsible for fiscal oversight, including budgeting, financial monitoring, and reconciliation, while fostering a collaborative, high-performing team environment and ensuring timely, effective execution of Institute priorities.

This role also serves as the Institute’s primary representative and relationship-builder, leading outreach, communication, and partnership efforts that advance the Institute’s mission and visibility. Working closely with staff, the successful candidate will cultivate strategic collaborations with researchers, community organizations, foundations, donors, and other partners; pursue grants, fundraising, and advancement opportunities; and oversee engagement activities such as webinars, publications, and external communications. The position serves as the primary liaison to the Institute’s Governing Board, coordinates board meetings and initiatives, and, in partnership with the Institute’s Government Relations team, works closely with state leaders, legislators, agencies, and other stakeholders to strengthen relationships and advance the Institute’s mission statewide. 

Primary Duties

Institute Operation and Management

• Supervises ICR personnel and oversee the activities designated to their roles within the ICR. Be familiar with the skills and knowledge required for ICR Staff responsibilities.
• Ensures that the Institutes statutory requirements (HB-19-1311) including but not limited to the statewide research funding competition following national best practices, hosting an annual research conference, annual report to legislative committees, and curricular assessment, on a timely basis.
• Fiscal oversight of state appropriated funds including the budgeting process, reviewing accounting information within the host institutions financial management system, and fiscal reconnaissance/reconciliation as needed.

Outreach and Partnerships

• Oversee successful execution of engagement/outreach/dissemination activities (e.g. webinar series, newsletter, website, journal, research roundtable, etc.) and manage effective internal and external communications in collaboration with the Institute's staff. 
• In partnership with the staff develop and manage strategic partnerships (conference partnerships, research collaborations, networking) that advance the mission of the institute as well develop funding resources outside of state appropriation (i.e. advancement activities, foundations, grants, etc.).
• Familiarity with advancement processes and practices. Engage potential donors and grow the Institute's donor base.  
• Manage and address external inquiries as appropriate in a timely fashion.

Collaboration with the ICR's Governing Board and engagement with State Officials

• Liaise with the Chair of the ICR Governing Board and the broader Board Membership – organize regular board meetings, manage board communications, etc.
• Execute strategies to meet the goals and objectives of Board-endorsed initiatives.
• Work within the Board's subcommittee structure to advance the mission of the Institute (e.g. Research Subcommittee - annual research compet