Vice Chair of Research, Psychological Services & Behavioral Health Service Line / Senior Research

Vice Chair of Research, Psychological Services & Behavioral Health Service Line

Position Summary:

At Akron Children's, helping patients and families is at the heart of all we do. We are the only digitally integrated, freestanding, independent pediatric care delivery system in the region, and our compassionate providers are committed to delivering a lasting and meaningful impact.

Named as one of Forbes' Best-In-State Employers in 2025, Akron Children's is Northeast Ohio's largest and only independent pediatric health care provider with two hospital campuses, six regional health centers and 50+ care locations. Our providers work across state-of-the-art facilities built to support exceptional care for patients and their families.

A cornerstone of Akron Children's continued growth is its Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. The department provides comprehensive, evidence-based care across schools, primary care, specialty pediatric settings, inpatient services, and outpatient programs. Our state-of-the-art psychiatric facility includes a crisis stabilization unit and supports a broad range of behavioral health services for children and adolescents with diverse mental health needs.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health to advance a robust research infrastructure that complements the department's expanding clinical services. Key responsibilities include building and leading research teams, mentoring junior faculty and trainees, and guiding the strategic development of behavioral health research and educational programs. The candidate will secure a faculty appointment at the Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED), a competitive salary with benefits, and an start-up package.

Key Responsibilities

• Research leadership.
• Develop, maintain, and lead an independent, funded research program.
• Serve as Principal Investigator (PI) or Co-PI on multisite and institutional projects.
• Lead interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research teams.
• Design and oversee scientific studies, including protocol development, data management, and quality assurance.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities; prepare and submit grant proposals and manuscripts.
• Disseminate research findings through publications and presentations.
• Strategic and administrative oversight.
• Participate in academic strategic planning for the Service Line.
• Help secure blended research funding sources from donors, foundations, state and federal sources.
• Facilitate the academic professional development of clinical scientists within the Service Line as well as interdisciplinary research efforts.
• Strategic recruitment of additional scientists and mentors.
• Collaborate with internal academic partners and external institutions.
• Serve on leadership committees and the Academic Steering Committee for the Service Line.
• Coordinate with finance and post-award teams on budgeting and expenditures.
• Education and Mentorship.
• Develop and supervise educational programs for students, residents, fellows, and allied health professionals.
• Mentor junior scientists, research assistants, and clinical faculty in research design, IRB submissions, and dissemination

Qualifications

• Doctorate (PhD, MD/PhD, OD/PhD, OD, DMin).
• Minimum 5 years of independent and collaborative research experience.
• Proven track record of research funding and senior authorship in high impact journals.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated success in mentoring and academic leadership.

About Akron, Ohio

Located near Cleveland, Akron blends the best of city living with easy access to the outdoors. From charming suburbs to lively neighborhoods, the area boasts the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, one of the nation's most popular (3M+ annual visitors), a dynamic arts and culture scene, and year-round recreation. Northeast Ohio offers a welcoming, affordable and enriching place to call home.

Whether you're actively searching or simply curious, we'd love to share what makes Akron Children's special.

Contact Abby Cravotta, Provider Recruitment, at acravotta@akronchildrens.org

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