Department: Research Integrity
Salary/Grade: EXS/10

Job Summary:

The Senior Compliance Specialist (SCS) supports ORI’s mission by managing research misconduct and research non-compliance investigations to ensure efficient coordination of research-related reviews, University compliance with all applicable regulations and policies and correction of non-compliance, as appropriate.  The work performed by the SCS involves highly confidential investigations of potential wrongdoings by faculty, staff and students.  The SCS interacts with the highest levels of University administration, and coordinates closely with the Office of the General Counsel and federal regulatory oversight agencies. Outcomes of the SCS’s work include: (1) comprehensive management of research non-compliance reviews; (2) federally compliant research misconduct proceedings; and (3) support and coordination of other ORI research compliance initiatives.

The Senior Compliance Specialist performs all job functions in alignment with Office for Research Values (Empathy, Accountability, Fairness, Community and Creativity) and will work to foster these values within the Office for Research.

* This job description does not cover all aspects of the position

Specific Responsibilities:

• Direct and conduct research misconduct investigations arising from allegations of wrongdoing, data falsification, fabrication or plagiarism, in accordance with federal regulations and institutional policy, including the management of faculty inquiry and investigation committee activities and reporting to federal oversight agencies. Perform forensic image analysis and data analysis using a variety of software including Photoshop, Excel, and PowerPoint, and create analytical tools for faculty committees. Draft reports for faculty committees in compliance with federal regulations and expectations.
• Lead focused reviews of potential research non-compliance, including coordination with other OR and central offices to ensure that research is consistent with federal, state, local and institutional requirements and implement corrective action plans as necessary. 
• Work with ORI’s Research training development processes as well as other OR and central offices to determine proactive approaches to prevent identified non-compliance issues from recurring.

Minimum Qualifications:

• BA/BS or the equivalent in education & experience
• 5 or more years working experience in a higher education or business environment in a role related to audit, internal control, clinical research and/or investigative processes

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Working knowledge of federal policies and regulations as they relate to research misconduct, research financial management, human subject protections and administration of sponsored projects and clinical research
• Strong knowledge of auditing techniques and possess the ability to understand and critically analyze research data, financial and other data, and documentation used in research to identify potential compliance risks
• Ability to understand and critically analyze various operational systems data and documentation to identify potential research compliance risks
• Self-motivation, preciseness in details and broad thinking
• Must possess effective project planning and project management skills with ability to meet deadlines and prioritize multiple tasks
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and ability to interact with process owners and senior level management, faculty and staff across the University at a variety of levels and positions
• Demonstrated skills using computer applications for data retrieval and analysis
• Excellent problem-solving capabilities
• Work well independently as well as contribute to team efforts

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Juris Doctorate (JD) degree
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designation or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation
• A background in research compliance reviews, auditing, clinical trials monitoring or conducting human subject research.
• Experience with governmental report writing
• Experience with investigative, forensic and/or data science techniques

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Knowledge of the federal research misconduct policies and procedures

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life’s challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you’re interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern requires all staff and faculty to be vaccinated against COVID-19, subject to limited exceptions. For more information, please visit our COVID-19 and Campus Updates website.

The Northwestern campus sits on the traditional homelands of the people of the Council of Three Fires, the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa as well as the Menominee, Miami and Ho-Chunk nations. We acknowledge and honor the original people of the land upon which Northwestern University stands, and the Native people who remain on this land today.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Click for information on EEO is the Law.