Research Analyst, RPD (10008485)

The Research Analyst contributes to the activities of the Research and Prospect Development team. As a member of the research team, the majority of time is spent researching prospects, analyzing capacity and philanthropic inclination, and providing Vanderbilt development groups with comprehensive intelligence.

About the Work Unit

The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals.

The Department is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University's teaching and research programs. Learn more about our department at https://www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/

Key Functions and Expected Performance

• Identify potential donors to Vanderbilt University using various online databases, periodical resources, and information provided by the constituent and/or peers.
• Collaborate and strategize with colleagues, clients, and key administrators regarding donor identification.
• Research and enter updated data into CRM for use by internal DAR colleagues, including contact information, employment information, financial assets, gifts to other organizations, and news articles.
• Prepare both short and in-depth briefings on donors for internal DAR stakeholders and university leadership, including biographical details and analysis of financials and philanthropy.
• Produce deliverables for internal clients based on departmental product standards within agreed upon timelines.
• Safeguard the confidentiality of donor information and uphold DAR policies regarding confidential information.
• Adhere to ethical and confidentiality guidelines as indicated by the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA) as well as university guidelines.
• Maintain strong and effective relationships with Vanderbilt faculty and staff external to DAR.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Supervisory Relationships

This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports to the Director of Pipeline Development.

Work Environment

Hybrid role based in Nashville - in the office approximately 1 day per week depending on business needs.

Education and Certifications

• Bachelor's degree, or the equivalent, is required.

Experience and Skills

• Experience in university development operations or other relevant experience is preferred.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and present complex information effectively.
• Strong demonstrated skill in writing, grammar usage, and editing.
• Excellent organizational skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in usage of electronic research tools, techniques, and search methodologies.
• Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite of products.
• Experience working with a CRM database, preferably Salesforce.
• Exemplary communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and staff.
• Ability to exercise good judgment in the handling of confidential information.

Key Characteristics of a Successful Team Member in this Work Unit:

• Expects and delivers excellence, is proactive and focused on creative problem solving, and places a high value on learning and improving.
• Holds oneself accountable, takes responsibility for failures as well as successes, and recognizes that trust is required to hold a team together.
• Shares information, communicates proactively, asks for advice and considers it thoughtfully.
• Genuinely values teamwork and co-workers.
• Manages time, activities, and outcomes well so that progress stays on track.

Required Skills

• Audience Segmentation - VU
• Competitive Intelligence - VU
• Customer Data Management - VU
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software - VU
• Data Privacy Laws - VU
• Donor Analysis - VU
• Financial Analysis - VU
• Prospect Evaluation - VU
• Prospect Management - VU
• Prospect Research - VU

About Us

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis.

Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running.

We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Info

• Job Identification 10008485
• Posting Date 06/22/2026, 12:06 PM
• Locations Nashville, TN, United States (Hybrid)
• Job Schedule Full time
• Job Category Development & Alumni Relations
• Job Function Research & Prospect Development
• Management Level Individual Contributor 2