UConn Careers

JOB SUMMARY 

UConn's Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) seeks a Chief Research Security Officer (University Staff Professional 3) to lead and manage efforts to address evolving federal priorities and requirements related to research security for UConn Storrs, UConn Health, and regional campuses to provide senior leadership, counsel, management, administrative and fiscal oversight for Research Security Services. Reporting to the Vice President for Research, the Chief Research Security Officer (CRSO) serves as a critical member of the Research leadership team (UConn and regional campuses and UConn Health) to develop and execute research security.

The CRSO will lead a team of university professionals in the provision of training and compliance in research security which includes facility security, export control compliance, insider threat programs and the implementation of NSMP-33 and other federal research security requirements. The CRSO will provide support and leadership for secure research infrastructure (SRI), controlled research, international collaboration, foreign travel, and will help facilitate expanding federal disclosure and reporting requirements related to international funding and activities.

The CRSO will work closely with OVPR Associate Vice Presidents and requisite units within the OVPR as well as across the University including the Office of the General Counsel, Global Affairs, Office of Compliance and Ethics, Information Technology Services, Human Resources, Procurement, Office of the Provost and Schools and Colleges, and Institutes and Centers.

The CRSO will work with University Information Technology Services and other University Offices to ensure the University’s full implementation and compliance with the National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM-33) and other regulatory requirements such as CMMC.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Ensures that the University has a Research Security Program that meets federal requirements and includes appropriate controls and training in cybersecurity, foreign travel, research security, related disclosures, and export controls.
• As the CRSO, serves as the Institutional Official for export controls and certifies and attests to the federal government as required by NSPM-33 that the University has a security program that meets federal requirements.
• Provides oversight of export controls, research information security, facility security, and controlled research programs and staff.
• Serves as a point of contact for outside audit and regulatory agencies related to research security and export control.
• Responsible for the development of policies, processes, Standard Operating Procedures and guidance to assure University compliance with federal and non-federal sponsor regulations related to research security and export control.
• Interprets federal regulations governing research security and export controls, stays apprised of evolving regulations, and works with key stakeholders to create or amend institutional policy and practice as needed.
• Participates in various reporting of international activities to the federal government, ensuring that requirements are met (such as the Higher Education Act Section 117 foreign gift and contract reporting).
• Advises the Vice President for Research and University leadership on national trends, regulations, and enforcement activities affecting the research enterprise including those involving international research, foreign activities, disclosure requirements, and research security matters.
• Attends Board Committee meetings as requested by the Vice President for Research.
• Collaborates closely with senior UConn and OVPR leadership to promote international research collaborations in a manner that is consistent with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and guidance. Manages the University Executive Research Security and Export Controls Steering Committee Meetings.
• Oversees the development and coordination of education, outreach, and training programs in research security.
• Conducts risk assessments and continuous monitoring of processes to mitigate research security risks.
• Effectively participates on relevant committees and University advisory boards that address research security and compliance.  Creates, leads, and facilitates additional formal cross-university collaborations where they may not currently exist to address issues, align efforts across the University, and increase communication and understanding of research security matters.
• Establishes network with peers at other universities by participating in national meetings on research security/ export controls.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

1. Advanced degree (Ph.D., JD, MA, MS) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
2. At least 8 years of progressively responsible experience in cybersecurity or export control security regulations.
3. Experienced team leader/ supervisor of export controls and/or information security staff, supporting professional development, developing a high-performing and functioning team, recruiting and retaining talented members, and exemplifying high ethical standards. 
4. Extensive knowledge of regulatory requirements in the areas of export controls (such as EAR and ITAR) and/ or information security (such as CMMC).
5. Extensive knowledge of NSMP-33 requirements, NIST 800-171, and NIST 800-53 standards.
6. Experience in addressing information security issues through IT storage as well as physical security.  Requires an understanding of network security, encryption technologies, detection, vulnerability assessments, incident response procedures and high-performance computing, cloud computing, and data analytical platforms.
7. Experience in developing and implementing security policies, procedures, and guidelines.
8. Advanced written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present effectively to small and large audiences of varying experience and backgrounds.
9. Strong relationship-building and negotiation skills.
10. Demonstrated ability to identify problems, analyze courses of action, and implement solutions.
11. Proven ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise discretion, make sound decisions, and have a strong commitment to personal ethics.
12. Track record of successfully providing guidance to various stakeholders in an organization including executive leaders.
13. Familiarity with document control procedures, including the handling, storage, transmission, and destruction of materials in accordance with government regulations, sponsor requirements, and organizational policies.
14. Must hold or obtain within a reasonable amount of time a Department of Defense “secret” security clearance and maintain that clearance for the duration of the role.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

1. Significant experience and proficiency in both information security and export control compliance.
2. Experience with Department of Defense security clearances, including familiarity with the clearance process and associated requirements.
3. Experience leading or advising a team of security professionals in a university setting.
4. Technical certification such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), or other similar credentials demonstrating expertise in security management and risk assessment. 
5. Working knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program (NISPOM), Department of Defense, and other federal regulations.
6. Relevant certifications in export control compliance, highlighting a thorough understanding of export regulations and their application.
7. Experience collaborating with researchers in an academic setting to meet regulatory and policy requirements, fostering a cooperative approach to security and compliance.
8. Knowledge of business theory, business processes, management, budgeting, and business office operations.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, permanent position. The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment.  For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/benefits-beyond-pay/.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #498214 to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references.

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on May 11, 2024. 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.