Overview

The Director of Research will lead innovative research initiatives across the care continuum from prevention, injury, and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. This role will leverage clinical data and partnerships to develop and build a comprehensive research agenda to enhance efficiencies, improve care optimization, and evaluate patient outcomes and experience within the context of associated cost of care across the MSK continuum. This role involves developing and executing research strategies, securing funding, mentoring research teams, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The position also requires disseminating findings through high-impact publications and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to advance evidence-based practices and clinical outcomes. The successful candidate will hold a terminal degree (Ph.D., D.Sc., or equivalent) and possess demonstrated expertise in research leadership and musculoskeletal health. This is an exciting opportunity to drive transformative advancements within ATI Physical Therapy and the Institute for Musculoskeletal Advancement.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive research strategy aligned with organizational goals.

• Foster an interdisciplinary research culture integrating physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, and orthopedic surgery.

• Identify emerging trends and opportunities to position the organization as a leader in musculoskeletal health.

Research Oversight and Management

• Oversee research initiatives, ensuring scientific rigor, ethical compliance, and alignment with priorities.

• Approve research proposals, protocols, and budgets to maximize productivity and impact.

• Allocate resources effectively to support organizational research objectives.

Outcomes and Dissemination

• Lead the publication of research in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.

• Translate research findings into actionable clinical insights.

• Provide timely updates to stakeholders, funders, and collaborators.

External Engagement and Funding

• Secure external funding from federal agencies, foundations, and industry partners.

• Build and maintain relationships with academic, clinical, and industry collaborators.

• Represent the organization at conferences to disseminate findings and establish strategic partnerships.

Quality Reporting and Continuous Improvement

• Contribute to clinical quality improvement initiatives through research-driven insights.

• Assist with data reporting to ensure compliance with quality standards.

Qualifications

Minimum Education

Required:

• Terminal degree (Ph.D., D.Sc., or equivalent) in a relevant field (rehabilitation sciences, epidemiology, movement science, etc.).

Preferred:

• Postdoctoral training or fellowship in a related field.

Minimum Experience

Required:

• 7+ years of research leadership experience with a track record of managing interdisciplinary teams.

• Proven success in securing extramural funding (e.g., NIH, NSF, industry grants) and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

Preferred:

• Experience in translational research and clinical trial design.

• Established relationships with funding agencies and industry partners.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Expertise in musculoskeletal disorders and rehabilitation sciences.

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and guide diverse research teams.

• Proficiency in research ethics, regulatory compliance (e.g., IRB, HIPAA), and clinical trial processes.

• Exceptional communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Analytical, organizational, and problem-solving expertise.

Licenses and Certifications

Required:

•

Preferred:

• PMP, Clinical License (MD, PA, NP, PT, RN)

Virtual Employee?

Yes

Salary Range

130,000-160,000

Location/Org Data : Dept Number

CORPIL

ReqID 2025-24205

Job Locations US-IL-Downers Grove

Job Category Corporate - Operations Support

Pay Class Full Time