Senior Research Analyst, Prospect Development

Job Description:

The Senior Research Analyst, Prospect Development, serves as a strategic partner to fundraising teams, identifying and evaluating individuals, foundations, and corporations with the capacity and inclination to support Brown University. This role conducts in-depth research and sophisticated wealth analysis to advance institutional fundraising priorities. Key responsibilities include preparing high-level briefing materials for leadership and senior administrators; evaluating business affiliations and networks to inform prospect qualification and strategy; and delivering analytical insights that guide the cultivation of principal, major, and leadership-level donors. The Senior Research Analyst interprets complex wealth indicators—including equity holdings, executive compensation, and complex asset structures—and translates findings into clear, actionable recommendations.

The role also conducts highly sensitive due diligence research on prospective and current donors, assessing potential reputational, financial, and legal risks. Using advanced research methodologies and AI-enabled tools, the Senior Research Analyst ensures accuracy while upholding the highest standards of confidentiality and data governance.

Success in this role requires sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to synthesize complex financial, professional, and biographical information into concise, strategic insights. The ideal candidate brings exceptional attention to detail, strong written and verbal communication skills, intellectual curiosity, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, along with a demonstrated ability to prioritize a dynamic workload, respond to evolving needs, and exercise sound judgment in time-sensitive situations.  

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in advanced research, development, fundraising, and/or market research experience. 

Job Competencies

• Demonstrated expertise in research and analytical methods, including the ability to gather, evaluate, and synthesize complex information from multiple sources and translate findings into clear, actionable insights.

• Advanced written communication and editing skills, with the ability to produce concise, accurate materials under tight deadlines and distill complex financial and biographical information for diverse audiences.

• Strong digital and technical proficiency, including advanced online search strategies, complex database use, and familiarity with research tools such as iWave, LexisNexis, Candid, and Xapien. As well as a high level of computer proficiency with advanced working knowledge of the Windows/Google Workspace environment.

• Ability to work independently with initiative and accountability while contributing effectively in a collaborative team environment, demonstrating sound judgment and strong working relationships.

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities, solve problems effectively, and meet demanding deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage professionally with a wide range of stakeholders, demonstrating tact, diplomacy, and adaptability.

• High degree of professionalism, ethical awareness, and discretion, with the ability to manage confidential information and apply sound judgment.

• Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, with the ability to work respectfully across varied perspectives.

• Strong financial analysis and information retrieval skills, including the ability to assess wealth indicators and philanthropic capacity among high-net-worth populations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Preference given to candidates with an understanding of the prospect research competencies presented in the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA) Body of Knowledge

• Experience in nonprofit, higher education, or research environments, particularly in fundraising or development, is preferred.

Background Check: All offers of employment are contingent upon a successful criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown.

Additional Information: Please submit a resume and cover letter when applying for this position.

Read more about the benefits of working at Brown here.

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

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Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C. All remote work must be performed in a state in which Brown is registered to do business.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.