Director, Research

GIA (Gemological Institute of America)

. Define and execute a multi-year global research strategy and annual research plan aligned with GIA's mission and priorities .

Posted 11/11/2026full-timeUnited StatesLead💰 $150,000 - $205,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in leading global research strategies and scientific programs in gemology and related fields, with a strong focus on analytical techniques, compliance, and collaboration across diverse teams and institutions.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Ph.D. In Geology, Mineralogy, Gemology, Physics, Chemistry, Or Materials ScienceTwelve Years Of Research Experience In Gemology Or Related FieldsTen Years Of People Leadership ExperienceExpertise In Analytical Techniques Such As Spectroscopy And ImagingStrong Record Of Peer-Reviewed Publications And Presentations

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Gemstone IdentificationOrigin DeterminationLaboratory-Grown MaterialsAnalytical MethodsData ScienceAdvanced AnalyticsResearch GovernanceTesting Procedures DevelopmentResearch Budget ManagementScientific Publication Review

Soft Skills

CollaborationCuriosityResponsible InnovationMentoringInfluencing Stakeholders

Tools & Technologies

Scientific SoftwareData SystemsLaboratory TechnologiesAnalytical InstrumentsPersonal Protective Equipment

Industry Keywords

GemologyMineralogyMaterials ScienceEthical Research PracticesRegulatory ComplianceResearch InstitutionsUniversity PartnershipsScientific StandardsProfessional ConferencesTrade Shows

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Define and execute a multi-year global research strategy and annual research plan aligned with GIA's mission and priorities
Lead scientific programs in gemstone identification, treatments, origin determination, and laboratory-grown materials
Advance analytical methods and technologies, including emerging techniques, data science, and advanced analytics
Maintain a global roadmap for research capability, technology, equipment, and facilities
Oversee the global portfolio of research projects and establish governance, milestones, and review processes
Ensure scientific accuracy, reproducibility, ethical research practices, and compliance with regulatory, safety, and institutional standards
Review research findings for validity and readiness before publication or transfer into services
Translate research findings into improved, validated testing procedures for identification services
Provide scientific support for complex identification cases, emerging treatments, and new materials
Collaborate with Instrument Development to define requirements and develop and validate innovative instruments
Partner with Education leaders to ensure curricula and learning materials reflect current research and scientific standards
Lead research scientists and technical staff across GIA locations
Own the global research budget, forecasts, workforce plan, facilities, equipment, and resource allocation
Build succession depth through talent reviews, development plans, mentoring, mobility, and targeted recruitment
Foster collaboration, curiosity, responsible innovation, and disciplined change adoption
Build partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industry organizations
Review and approve research findings for publication and ensure communication through journals and GIA publications
Present research results at conferences, trade shows, and related events
Serve as scientific advisor to GIA executives, Business Development, and Marketing

Requirements

What you’ll need

Ph.D. in geology, mineralogy, gemology, physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related scientific field
Minimum of twelve (12) years of progressively responsible research experience in gemology, mineralogy, materials science, or a closely related scientific field
Minimum of ten (10) years of people leadership experience, including demonstrated success leading scientific leaders and geographically dispersed or comparably complex research organizations
Strong record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations at professional conferences, with recognized standing in the gemological or related scientific community
Expertise in analytical techniques used in gem research and identification, such as spectroscopy, trace element analysis, and imaging, as well as developing and validating new methods and instruments
Demonstrated accountability for a significant research budget, laboratory facilities and equipment, and a portfolio of multiple research programs
Demonstrated success building partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industry organizations, and influencing senior stakeholders across Identification, Education, Instrument Development, Quality, Finance, and related functions
Regular on-site presence is required, with hybrid flexibility consistent with business and leadership needs
Ability to travel domestically and internationally, generally 20-30% of the time
Ability to work across global time zones and respond to significant scientific, operational, or stakeholder issues outside standard local business hours
Must handle confidential scientific, intellectual property, employee, financial, and business information with appropriate discretion
Must follow GIA safety protocols and wear personal protective equipment as required
Must be able to grasp and manipulate small objects using tweezers, stone holders, microscopes, and analytical instruments, requiring fine motor skills and eye-to-hand coordination
Extensive use of computers, scientific software, data systems, laboratory technologies, and other business applications

Benefits

Comp & perks

Hybrid flexibility consistent with business and leadership needs
Opportunity to lead globally recognized research programs and influence industry standards
Ability to develop the next generation of scientific talent
Opportunities to publish research and present at professional conferences, trade shows, and related events
Collaboration with universities, research institutions, and industry organizations
Reasonable accommodations available upon request