Research Project Manager Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Research Project Manager roles qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship as a specialty occupation requiring a directly related bachelor's degree. Many positions sit within universities, hospitals, and federal contractors that file LCAs regularly. No lottery exemption exists, but cap-exempt employers like nonprofits and research institutions can hire year-round.
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BSD SUR - OHNS: Thirty Million Words - Research Operations
About the Department
The TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health at the University of Chicago develops, tests, and implements evidence-based interventions designed to promote very young children’s cognitive and social-emotional development, with a priority placed on that of children living in poverty. TMW Center interventions are designed to be overlaid onto existing health, education, and social service systems working at scale in a given community in order to meet families where they already are. Our goal is to effect population-level change in children’s academic and developmental outcomes.
Job Summary
The Research Project Manager (onsite) manages research partnerships and data collection efforts involving the SPEAK, the Survey of Parent/Provider Expectations And Knowledge. Developed and validated at the TMW Center, the SPEAK is a computer-adaptive tool that measures knowledge of early child development. Drawing on a bank of nearly 400 items, it tailors questions to each respondent and produces overall and domain-specific scores. The tool runs on phones, tablets, and computers and can be integrated with other survey platforms, such as REDCap. Partner organizations use the tool with parents and early educators to measure knowledge, guide coaching and professional development, and evaluate programs.
Through a two-year research incubator, the TMW Center is building an international, multidisciplinary consortium of researchers who use the SPEAK to generate cross-cultural evidence on caregiver beliefs, connect those beliefs to caregiver behaviors and child outcomes, and expand the tool’s use across economics, psychology, education, public health, and public policy. Partners include universities, hospitals, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, with 22 incubator partnerships currently underway in 17 countries.
The Research Project Manager leads day-to-day management of this partnership portfolio. The role oversees partner projects from setup through data collection, builds surveys, coordinates translations, plans convenings, and tracks deliverables against grant timelines. The role also presents the tool to potential partners, relays partner and user feedback to the product and technical teams, and supports proposals and grant reports, working closely with the Principal Researcher on all aspects of the project.
This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by extramural funds (e.g., grant, gift, endowment) which are renewed under provisions set by the grantor. Employment will be contingent upon continued receipt of these extramural funds and satisfactory job performance. If the position is eliminated due to the discontinuation of extramural funding, you will be given a minimum of one month’s written notice or pay in-lieu of notice.
Responsibilities
- Manage a broad portfolio of distinct research projects and external partnerships, each with its own scope, objectives, and requirements. Serve as the primary point of contact for partners, overseeing project setup, research planning, and data sharing. Troubleshoot issues related to contracting (MOUs, data use agreements), survey implementation, and data quality.
- Plan and coordinate convenings for the research consortium, including a virtual convening where teams present their findings, a one-day in-person symposium at the University of Chicago, and a policy forum with key stakeholders. Manage logistics, agendas, speakers, travel, and follow-up.
- Track project milestones and deliverables against the grant timeline, and prepare the annual progress report for the incubator funder, including updates on research activities, events and convenings, and key outcomes.
- Build, test, and deploy surveys on the platform and in REDCap.
- Coordinate translation of the tool into new languages, working with translators, partner teams, and the Principal Researcher to review translated versions.
- Present project updates and findings to partner organizations, at internal meetings, and at external convenings.
- Serve as subject matter expert and key stakeholder for the platform. Work closely with product and technical teams to ensure features are effectively prioritized.
- Monitor deadlines for data reports and presentations, and communicate project needs with the Principal Researcher and Research Data Manager so that data deliverables meet partner needs.
- Monitor ongoing data collection efforts across partner studies and request/implement changes to data collection tools, processes, and protocols as needed.
- Support partners in using the data portal to access and download their data, track survey completion, and report issues.
- Write and review proposals, grant reports, and social media materials.
- Present the research tool to potential partners, and discuss relevant use case examples based on the organization type (e.g., research teams, early learning programs, health systems, government agencies).
- Maintain project trackers, partner records, and meeting notes, and keep documents organized, formatted, and backed up in Google Drive and on the TMW Server.
- Applies research principles and relevant subject matter knowledge relevant to administer a research project. With a moderate level of direction, manages lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Helps develop, design and conduct research projects according to plan.
- Takes responsibility for the following non-laboratory duties: transcribing and coding data; developing data collection instruments; presenting research; and recruiting and scheduling research subjects. Acquires higher-level skills and knowledge in the process.
- Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
- Master’s degree in public policy, social science, psychology, economics, public health, education, or a related field.
Experience:
- Experience working directly with government agencies, non-profit organizations, or community-based partners on research or program implementation.
- Experience with IRB protocols, data use agreements and human subjects research.
- Experience in early childhood research or education.
- Experience coordinating international or multi-site research.
- Experience planning convenings, conferences, or other professional events.
- Familiarity with survey research methods.
- Strong computer skills and familiarity with research software (e.g., Excel, Qualtrics, REDCap).
Preferred Competencies
- Excellent organizational and analytical skills with sharp attention to detail.
- Strong project management skills to build and maintain detailed project plans and track deliverables across multiple stakeholders.
- Familiarity with quantitative and qualitative research methods, comfort working alongside analysts on data-driven projects, and the ability to read and interpret statistical output.
- Superior interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse professional environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including presenting to academic and non-academic audiences.
- Ability to effectively manage a heavy workload, competing priorities, and tight deadlines.
- Ability to adapt to changes in fast-paced work environment.
- A quick, self-learner with ability to initiate, organize, prioritize and complete multiple, high-level projects; and work effectively with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work both independently and as a team member.
Application Documents
- Resume (required)
- Cover letter (required)
The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Research
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Pay Rate Type
Salary
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Range
$60,000.00 - $80,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.
Department
BSD SUR - OHNS: Thirty Million Words - Research Operations
About the Department
The TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health at the University of Chicago develops, tests, and implements evidence-based interventions designed to promote very young children’s cognitive and social-emotional development, with a priority placed on that of children living in poverty. TMW Center interventions are designed to be overlaid onto existing health, education, and social service systems working at scale in a given community in order to meet families where they already are. Our goal is to effect population-level change in children’s academic and developmental outcomes.
Job Summary
The Research Project Manager (onsite) manages research partnerships and data collection efforts involving the SPEAK, the Survey of Parent/Provider Expectations And Knowledge. Developed and validated at the TMW Center, the SPEAK is a computer-adaptive tool that measures knowledge of early child development. Drawing on a bank of nearly 400 items, it tailors questions to each respondent and produces overall and domain-specific scores. The tool runs on phones, tablets, and computers and can be integrated with other survey platforms, such as REDCap. Partner organizations use the tool with parents and early educators to measure knowledge, guide coaching and professional development, and evaluate programs.
Through a two-year research incubator, the TMW Center is building an international, multidisciplinary consortium of researchers who use the SPEAK to generate cross-cultural evidence on caregiver beliefs, connect those beliefs to caregiver behaviors and child outcomes, and expand the tool’s use across economics, psychology, education, public health, and public policy. Partners include universities, hospitals, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, with 22 incubator partnerships currently underway in 17 countries.
The Research Project Manager leads day-to-day management of this partnership portfolio. The role oversees partner projects from setup through data collection, builds surveys, coordinates translations, plans convenings, and tracks deliverables against grant timelines. The role also presents the tool to potential partners, relays partner and user feedback to the product and technical teams, and supports proposals and grant reports, working closely with the Principal Researcher on all aspects of the project.
This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by extramural funds (e.g., grant, gift, endowment) which are renewed under provisions set by the grantor. Employment will be contingent upon continued receipt of these extramural funds and satisfactory job performance. If the position is eliminated due to the discontinuation of extramural funding, you will be given a minimum of one month’s written notice or pay in-lieu of notice.
Responsibilities
- Manage a broad portfolio of distinct research projects and external partnerships, each with its own scope, objectives, and requirements. Serve as the primary point of contact for partners, overseeing project setup, research planning, and data sharing. Troubleshoot issues related to contracting (MOUs, data use agreements), survey implementation, and data quality.
- Plan and coordinate convenings for the research consortium, including a virtual convening where teams present their findings, a one-day in-person symposium at the University of Chicago, and a policy forum with key stakeholders. Manage logistics, agendas, speakers, travel, and follow-up.
- Track project milestones and deliverables against the grant timeline, and prepare the annual progress report for the incubator funder, including updates on research activities, events and convenings, and key outcomes.
- Build, test, and deploy surveys on the platform and in REDCap.
- Coordinate translation of the tool into new languages, working with translators, partner teams, and the Principal Researcher to review translated versions.
- Present project updates and findings to partner organizations, at internal meetings, and at external convenings.
- Serve as subject matter expert and key stakeholder for the platform. Work closely with product and technical teams to ensure features are effectively prioritized.
- Monitor deadlines for data reports and presentations, and communicate project needs with the Principal Researcher and Research Data Manager so that data deliverables meet partner needs.
- Monitor ongoing data collection efforts across partner studies and request/implement changes to data collection tools, processes, and protocols as needed.
- Support partners in using the data portal to access and download their data, track survey completion, and report issues.
- Write and review proposals, grant reports, and social media materials.
- Present the research tool to potential partners, and discuss relevant use case examples based on the organization type (e.g., research teams, early learning programs, health systems, government agencies).
- Maintain project trackers, partner records, and meeting notes, and keep documents organized, formatted, and backed up in Google Drive and on the TMW Server.
- Applies research principles and relevant subject matter knowledge relevant to administer a research project. With a moderate level of direction, manages lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Helps develop, design and conduct research projects according to plan.
- Takes responsibility for the following non-laboratory duties: transcribing and coding data; developing data collection instruments; presenting research; and recruiting and scheduling research subjects. Acquires higher-level skills and knowledge in the process.
- Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
- Master’s degree in public policy, social science, psychology, economics, public health, education, or a related field.
Experience:
- Experience working directly with government agencies, non-profit organizations, or community-based partners on research or program implementation.
- Experience with IRB protocols, data use agreements and human subjects research.
- Experience in early childhood research or education.
- Experience coordinating international or multi-site research.
- Experience planning convenings, conferences, or other professional events.
- Familiarity with survey research methods.
- Strong computer skills and familiarity with research software (e.g., Excel, Qualtrics, REDCap).
Preferred Competencies
- Excellent organizational and analytical skills with sharp attention to detail.
- Strong project management skills to build and maintain detailed project plans and track deliverables across multiple stakeholders.
- Familiarity with quantitative and qualitative research methods, comfort working alongside analysts on data-driven projects, and the ability to read and interpret statistical output.
- Superior interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse professional environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including presenting to academic and non-academic audiences.
- Ability to effectively manage a heavy workload, competing priorities, and tight deadlines.
- Ability to adapt to changes in fast-paced work environment.
- A quick, self-learner with ability to initiate, organize, prioritize and complete multiple, high-level projects; and work effectively with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work both independently and as a team member.
Application Documents
- Resume (required)
- Cover letter (required)
The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Research
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Pay Rate Type
Salary
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Range
$60,000.00 - $80,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.
See all 227+ Research Project Manager Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Research Project Manager roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Research Project Manager
Frame your degree field precisely
Research Project Managers need a degree in a field directly related to the research area, not just general management. If your degree is in public health, engineering, or social sciences, make that disciplinary match explicit in your resume and cover letter.
Target cap-exempt research institutions first
Universities, nonprofit research centers, and federally funded labs are cap-exempt H-1B employers. They can file petitions any time of year, bypassing the annual lottery entirely. Prioritize these organizations when your application timeline is tight.
Verify prevailing wage before negotiating offers
Your employer must pay at least the DOL prevailing wage for your location and role level. Use the OFLC Wage Search to look up the wage tier for your city before you receive an offer, so you're not caught off guard during negotiations.
Use Migrate Mate to find active sponsors
Search Migrate Mate's job board to identify employers with verified LCA filing history for research and project management roles. Focusing on organizations that have already navigated the process shortens your sponsorship timeline significantly.
Prepare your project portfolio for PERM documentation
If your employer pursues a green card through PERM labor certification, they'll need to demonstrate your role requires a specific degree. Compile a portfolio showing research methodology expertise, grant management, and IRB coordination to support that specialized-role argument.
Clarify H-1B portability rules before switching employers
If you're already in H-1B status, you can start with a new employer once the new petition is filed with USCIS. Confirm your new employer is filing an I-129 before you give notice, so your work authorization stays continuous during the transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Research Project Manager role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
Yes, but the qualifying argument depends on your research domain. USCIS looks for a direct relationship between the degree field and the job duties. A Research Project Manager overseeing clinical trials with a public health or biomedical degree qualifies more cleanly than one with a general business degree. Document the technical complexity of your specific role to strengthen the petition.
Which visa types are available to Research Project Manager candidates?
H-1B is the most common path for employer-sponsored Research Project Managers. Canadians and Mexicans may qualify under TN visa if the role falls within a listed USMCA profession. Australians can pursue the E-3 visa. For roles at universities or research institutes, J-1 visa researcher or scholar status is another option, though it requires a designated sponsor organization and may carry a two-year home residency requirement.
Do nonprofit research institutions offer any advantage for H-1B sponsorship?
Significant ones. Nonprofit research organizations affiliated with universities or government agencies are cap-exempt H-1B employers, meaning they can file petitions year-round without entering the annual lottery. If you're targeting sponsorship and want to avoid lottery uncertainty, prioritizing positions at these institutions gives you more filing windows and faster timelines through USCIS.
What degree background do employers expect for a sponsored Research Project Manager?
Most H-1B petitions for this role cite degrees in the research discipline being managed: public health, life sciences, social sciences, engineering, or a related field. A generic management degree alone is a weaker foundation for the specialty occupation argument. O*NET profiles this occupation as requiring a bachelor's degree, and USCIS will scrutinize whether your degree field directly connects to the work you'll oversee.
Where can I find employers actively sponsoring Research Project Manager roles?
Migrate Mate lists employers with verified sponsorship history for research and project management roles, so you can focus your applications on organizations already set up to file. Research-heavy sectors like academic medical centers, government contractors, and national labs sponsor most frequently and are well represented on the platform.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Research Project Manager jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.