Project Development Lead

Date posted: July 31, 2026

Advertised until: August 14, 2026

Full-time: Yes

Permanent: Yes

Work schedule: [1006] Academic - Derived Schedule

Expected Start Date September 14, 2026

For more information please contact: Allison Stephen, Director, Office of the Vice-President (Research and International) - allison.stephen@umanitoba.ca

Project Development Lead, (AI, Tech & Implementation), Major Projects Office

Salary: $95,000 to 115,000

Starting salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

POSITION SUMMARY:

This is a great opportunity for a qualified individual to inspire the development of novel, groundbreaking, transformative research at the University of Manitoba that has the potential for impactful outcomes in economic/health/social/environmental sectors. Reporting to the Director, Major Projects Office within the portfolio of the Vice-President (Research and International) (VPRI), the Project Development Lead is responsible for the ideation, facilitation, and preparation of major project proposals, which are the largest and most complex funding proposals that the institution undertakes (e.g. Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), Canada Research Chairs, Canada Excellence Research Chairs, CFREF, NFRF - Transformation, NFRF-International, and Horizon Europe applications). The Project Development Lead will collaborate with diverse teams of faculty members from within the university, other academic institutions, and external public and private sector partners in the preparation of multi-, inter-, and transdisciplinary funding proposals that foster strategic partnerships and have a large institutional and global impact.

Responsibilities:

• Working with professionals from diverse backgrounds and experiences, leverages their knowledge and experience and brings together the full range (i.e., ideation to completion) of research facilitation activities in the preparation of competitive, major project funding proposals.
• Plans and implements the development of large-scale collaborative research applications involving researchers across the university, granting agencies, and departments within the Office of the Vice-President (Research and International) (VPRIO).
• Where applicable, contributes to project concept development, strengthens project positioning, identifies research synergies and potential external partnerships; builds strategic teams of researchers.
• Coordinates the planning, preparation, and execution of the proposals in consultation with the Project team (Directors in the Office of Research Services and Knowledge Mobilization, and as needed, Research Compliance) to ensure completeness and cohesiveness of the funding proposals.
• Provides grant development, writing, and editing support to maximize University participation and success in major research funding programs.
• Ensures a timely, high-quality, and complete submission of qualified proposals, in coordination with the Project team.
• Stays current on relevant funding opportunities and eligibility requirements and collaborates with relevant staff to prepare for competitions.
• Contributes towards the promotion and enhancement of the University’s leadership profile in research, knowledge mobilization, and innovation.
• Plans and facilitates the delivery of programs (e.g., developing multi-, trans-, and interdisciplinary projects, information sessions) regarding large, high-value funding projects.

Qualifications :

MINIMUM FORMAL EDUCATION/TRAINING REQUIRED:

PhD in computer science or computer engineering with special emphasis on AI technology development and/or implementation, and at least three years of related experience. Experience in developing bold visions, new research concepts, overseeing and guiding the development of technical and implementation science research (e.g., in healthcare settings, private sector – agriculture, forestry, advanced manufacturing, etc.), and interdisciplinary research. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• With a strong foundation in technical knowledge, the ability to develop novel research concepts aligned with institutional priorities and capacity, and identify suitable/complementary academic and non-academic partnerships for competitive project development
• Ability to develop and maintain cooperative and productive working relationships with groups and individuals such as senior-level academics, researchers, administrators, and external partners
• Superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent strategic and project management skills.
• Demonstrated experience in articulating project concepts, writing/editing and proofreading technical materials.
• A team player.
• High degree of tact and diplomacy.
• Ability to think critically and troubleshoot complex problems.
• Strong time management skills, organizational skills, and flexibility to effectively prioritize and ensure completion of assigned work and change priorities as the need arises.
• Ability to give both academic-focused and diverse audience-focused presentations.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Sound knowledge and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, internet applications and database of complex information systems.

The University of Manitoba is a driving force of innovation, discovery and advancement. Our momentum is propelled by our campus community – UM faculty, staff and students whose determination and curiosity shape our world for the better. Our teaching, learning and work environment is uniquely strengthened and enriched by Indigenous perspectives. With two main campuses in Winnipeg, satellite campuses throughout Manitoba, and world-wide research, UM’s impact is global.

Discover outstanding employee benefits, experience world-class facilities, and join a dynamic community that values reconciliation, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. We are one of Manitoba’s Top Employers and one of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers. At the University of Manitoba, what inspires you can change everything.

Additional information:

The schedule for this position is 40hrs/week, Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm. This is an in-person position located at the Fort Garry campus.

The University of Manitoba is committed to the principles of equity, diversity & inclusion and to promoting opportunities in hiring, promotion and tenure (where applicable) for systemically marginalized groups who have been excluded from full participation at the University and the larger community including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and other diverse sexual identities).

If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact UM.Accommodation@umanitoba.ca or 204-474-7195. Please note this contact information is for accommodation reasons only.

Application materials, including letters of reference, will be handled in accordance with the protection of privacy provisions of "The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act" (Manitoba). Please note that curriculum vitae will be provided to participating members of the search process.

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