Associate Chief Research Officer

Associate Chief Research Officer (ACRO)Cook Children's Associate Chief Research Officer (ACRO) supports the Chief Research Officer (CRO) in leading and advancing the research enterprise of our large pediatric healthcare system and our fast-growing research program.Cook Children's is looking for a strategic thinker with strong operational capabilities who can balance multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. We want someone with a passion for advancing pediatric research and the ability to work collaboratively across diverse stakeholder groups.You will assist in managing research operations, strategic planning, and serve as a liaison between the CRO's office and research administration units.You will also provide operational and strategic support across:Clinical TrialRegulatory AffairsResearch AnalyticsInvestigator-Initiated ResearchResearch Financial OperationsYour role as ACRO will drive research growth while ensuring compliance, quality, and alignment with system-wide priorities. You have a key role in decision-making, problem-solving, and optimizing research infrastructure to enhance our competitive position and impact on pediatric health. As a key member of the leadership team, you will play a crucial role in succession planning and act as a stand-in for the CRO when needed, ensuring continuity of leadership and operations.Your role is critical for succession planning within the research organization. You will be expected to develop a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the CRO role and be prepared to step in as acting CRO when necessary. While not guaranteed, the ACRO role may be considered as a potential successor to the CRO position in the future.Education and Experience:Medical or Osteopathic Doctor board-certified in a pediatric discipline is requiredAt least 7 years progressive experience in clinical/translational researchNeed substantial experience in administration and operationsMD - Texas Medical License, DEACredentialed member of the Cook Children's Professional Staff, or eligible to be credentialed at Cook Children'sThe strongest candidates will have:MBA or equivalent advanced degree in business or healthcare administrationExperience in healthcare administration or operations outside of research, particularly in clinical rolesDemonstrated leadership skills and experience managing large, complex research programs or departmentsStrong understanding of regulatory requirements, research ethics, and the pediatric research landscapeExcellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skillsTrack record of successful grant funding and peer-reviewed publicationsAbout Us:Cook Children's Health Care System offers a unique approach to caring for children because we are one of the country's leading integrated pediatric health care delivery organizations. Patients benefit from the integrated system because it allows Cook Children's to use all of its resources to treat a patient and allows for easy communication between the various companies by physicians with a focus on caring for children and adolescents.Cook Children's is an equal opportunity employer. As such, Cook Children's offers equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal laws. These opportunities include terms, conditions, and privileges of employment, including but not limited to hiring, job placement, training, compensation, discipline, advancement, and termination.