Research Data & Analytics Specialist

Research Data \& Analytics Specialist

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Research Data \& Analytics Specialist.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406\-0001

United States

Division Office of Research Administration

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Part Time

Grant Funded No

Salary Range 30\.00 \- 30\.00

Pay Grade

Generic Grade

Posting Close Date Five Days After Posted

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full\-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H\-1B).

Job Summary

The Research Data and Analytics Specialist supports the University’s research enterprise by building and maintaining data systems, dashboards, and analytic tools that increase transparency, improve grant management workflows, and strengthen institution‑wide strategic decision‑making. This highly technical role utilizes institutional systems including PeopleSoft and Cayuse and data visualization tools such as Power BI to extract, transform, analyze, and present research administration data in a clear and accessible format for faculty and campus leadership. The Specialist serves a diverse campus audience, including pre‑ and post‑award grant managers, academic affairs leadership, faculty, and multiple administrative units. Through this work, the position provides critical visibility into sponsored funding activity, supports accurate and compliant grant management, and contributes to the University’s efforts to build a robust and sustainable research ecosystem.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Manages and enhances the University’s research information systems by extracting, organizing, and integrating data from platforms such as PeopleSoft and Cayuse; maintains and improves Power BI dashboards and reporting tools while ensuring data accuracy, consistency, integrity, and well\-documented, sustainable reporting processes.
• Develops analytical models, visualizations, and decision\-support tools to strengthen grant tracking and strategic planning; identifies trends, monitors performance indicators, and provides tailored analytics to support effective resource management.
• Serves as a campuswide technical expert for Power BI, PeopleSoft, Cayuse, and AI tools; provides user support, training, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of dashboards and reporting tools while ensuring usability and alignment with research needs.
• Leads evaluation and implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) enabled technologies to improve research administration, data integrity, and efficiency; assesses emerging tools and collaborates with campus partners to integrate solutions while ensuring ethical use and data security.
• Contributes to special projects and strategic initiatives to support research information systems and strengthen the University’s research enterprise.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in information systems, data analytics, computer science, business intelligence, research administration, or a related field that provides a strong foundation in data‑centered work. One (1\) year of experience working with complex administrative or research‑related data systems such as PeopleSoft, Cayuse, or similar platforms. Five (5\) years of experience organizing, analyzing, or reporting on large or multifaceted datasets in a professional environment.

Knowledge, Skills \& Abilities

• Strong technical expertise in data visualization, database management, and analytical workflows, including developing dynamic dashboards, extracting and transforming data from enterprise systems, and applying advanced analytics to support decision\-making and operational efficiency
• Ability to translate complex datasets into clear, intuitive visualizations that support faculty, grant managers, and administrators in interpreting trends and making informed decisions
• Ability to ensure accuracy, maintain data integrity, and apply sound judgment in handling sensitive or confidential information
• Strong problem\-solving skills with the ability to work with large, complex, and multi\-source datasets, identify data integrity issues, reconcile discrepancies, and improve accuracy and consistency
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to nontechnical audiences and present analytical findings through clear narratives and visual summaries
• Commitment to data accuracy, integrity, confidentiality, and continuous improvement, with strong attention to detail and adherence to data governance standards
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and adapt in a fast\-paced, evolving environment
• Proficiency in Structured Query Language (SQL), Data Analysis Expressions (DAX), or similar query and reporting languages, with the ability to design advanced dashboards and analytics solutions
• Proficiency in Power BI or other business intelligence and data visualization tools
• Strong technical aptitude and ability to quickly learn new systems and processes while applying sound judgment in handling sensitive information
• Demonstrated ability to support data\-driven decision\-making and continuously improve reporting tools and processes

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in data analytics, information systems, business intelligence, research administration, or a related field. Two (2\) years of experience working in a higher‑education research environment or sponsored programs office. Two (2\) years of experience in research administration workflow including proposal, award, and compliance processes. Two (2\) years of experience with enterprise systems such as PeopleSoft, Workday, Ellucian, Cayuse, Huron, or comparable platforms.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community\-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student\-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.