Research Director Job Description

At Greener by Default, you will be working towards the ambitious goal of completely transforming institutional foodservice - and the food system as a whole - by making plant-based food the default. 

We recognize that the fate of humans, animals, and ecosystems are bound together, and strive to create a food system that will allow all life on earth to flourish. In order to achieve our vision, we develop strategies rooted in science, sustainability, and inclusivity to empower institutions to serve plant-forward food. 

Position Objective:

The Research Director will lead and coordinate innovative, interdisciplinary research initiatives focused on understanding and promoting plant-based eating through behavioral science interventions. This role involves collaborating with academic researchers and our healthcare, university and corporate partners, to design, implement, and evaluate studies that test how different nudges can encourage sustainable food choices. The Research Director will oversee research collaborations, contribute to the dissemination of findings that advance the field of behavioral interventions in plant-based eating, and help our team analyze data and stay on top of current research. The ideal candidate will have expertise in behavioral economics, food systems & data analysis, as well as a passion for advancing plant-based solutions for environmental sustainability and public well-being.
 

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

• Oversee research collaborations. Work with the GBD Research Board, represent GBD as a Menus of Change University Research Collaborative (MCURC) Research Partner, and maintain relationships with allies in academia and other sectors to identify research opportunities and collaborate in studies as opportunities arise.
• Build partnerships and collaborate with external stakeholders. Work with various research organizations, academic institutions, and industry experts, to grow and enhance research collaboration capabilities, and coordinate with our team to integrate research findings into client solutions.
• Develop  research strategy. Create and implement the Research Team’s OKRs and KPIs to assess role responsibilities and measure the success for the research department. 
• Organize and manage research. Maintain and update a repository of research, data and insights to help keep our staff up to date on the latest research and update our materials.
• Oversee data collection and analysis process:
  • Understand how to run python notebooks and make minor modifications where necessary. (You will not need to write significant code from scratch)
  • Work closely with our project teams to assist with survey development and design, analyze & interpret results.
  • Visualize results that illustrate key results and findings to deliver key performance metrics to clients.
  • Provide data interpretation to internal staff & clients.
• Lead team research meetings:
  • Lead monthly internal team meetings that highlight innovative, evidence-based approaches to driving transformational change in food systems.
  • Lead quarterly meetings with GBD's Research Board.
• Work with the Operations Team to investigate and implement new tools, technologies, or software that could enhance data analysis or streamline internal processes, with special focus on AI and automation opportunities.

Individual Attributes Required:

• Strategic Vision: Ability to think strategically and develop research strategy that aligns with broader organizational goals.
• Leadership: Proven experience in leading and mentoring research teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance.
• Scientific Rigor: Strong foundation in environmental or behavioral science, with the capacity to critically evaluate research methodologies and findings.
• Adaptability: Ability to navigate complex problems and adapt research strategies to new developments in the field.
• Effective Communication: Capable of distilling complex research findings into clear, impactful messages for diverse stakeholders.
• Inclusion and Cultural Sensitivity: Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, respecting diverse perspectives, and meeting people where they are.
• Intellectual integrity: Provide information rooted in science, adapt messaging and tactics based on the latest behavioral research.
• Ambition: Boldly drive change within institutional foodservice norms.
• Open communication: Continuously seek out new information and dialogue, cultivate trust with staff and partners.
• Growth mindset: See challenges and mistakes as opportunities to adapt and improve. Continuously strive to hone your expertise and refine your skills in order to best serve the organization’s and client’s goals.

Position Requirements:

• 4+ years of research experience
• Masters Degree in behavioral science, food systems, environmental science, psychology or a similar field
• Proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative data collection, data analysis, and research methodologies
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously.
• Excellent project management and leadership skills
• Experience utilizing AI tools and platforms for research applications and strategic decision-making.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex research and data into actionable insights
• Strong understanding of plant-based food systems, sustainability practices, and the benefits of plant-forward dining
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team

We prefer candidates who have the following:

• PhD in behavioral science, food systems, environmental science, psychology or a similar field
• Strong connections in academia
• Prior experience with coding

We strongly encourage people of every color, orientation, age, gender, origin, and ability to apply. Because we value a diverse workplace, we prioritize an inclusive climate during the application process and after you join the team. We encourage candidates with most of the above qualifications to apply; we do not expect all candidates to fit this job description 100%.

Reports to: 

Ilana Braverman, COO

Compensation: 

This is a salaried employee position paying $77,000 - 83,000 per year, depending on experience and credentials.

Benefits:

• Health, Dental & Vision Plan
• 401k plan, with a dollar for dollar employer match up to 3%
• $150 cell phone and internet expense reimbursement
• $500 annual office equipment stipend (can be rolled over)
• 20 vacation days per year, 14 paid federal holidays, 8 sick days and 1 personal day per year, to be used during your birthday month

Location:

This is a remote position. We are currently only able to hire employees who can work in the U.S. for this position.

To Apply

In order to apply, please fill out this form. We will not consider any candidates who have not filled out the form. Please do not contact us via email or message to apply.  Applications will be received on a rolling basis, with a priority for those received by January 10, 2025.