Research System Support ( HR Title: Department Business Sys Analyst II)

About SMU

SMUs more than 12,000 diverse high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the Universitys small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study, and innovative programs. SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools:

• Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences
• Cox School of Business
• Lyle School of Engineering
• Meadows School of the Arts
• Simmons School of Education and Human Development
• Dedman School of Law
• Perkins School of Theology and Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies

SMU is data-driven and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem - paired with entrepreneurial drive - creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence. Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty, and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities.

SMUs relationship with Dallas - the dynamic center of one of the nations fastest-growing regions - offers unique learning, research, social, and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact. SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry.

About the Position

This role is an on-campus, in-person position. The Office of Research and Innovation (ORI) is seeking a detail-oriented Business Systems Analyst to support and enhance research enterprise systems. This role focuses on analyzing business and technical requirements, maintaining and optimizing research systems, and ensuring the reliable performance of research applications, databases, and platforms.

The position will collaborate with researchers, administrators, and IT partners to improve system functionality and streamline research operations. The ideal candidate brings strong experience in business systems analysis, process improvement, and a commitment to advancing innovative research initiatives.

Essential Functions

• System Implementation and Configuration:
  1. Assist in the setup, configuration, and deployment of new research systems and technologies.
  2. Collaborate with research teams to understand system requirements and customize solutions accordingly.
  3. Ensure system integration with existing research workflows and platforms.
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  5. System Maintenance & Support:
     1. Monitor and maintain research systems, including databases, software, and hardware.
     2. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to research tools and platforms.
     3. Perform regular system updates, backups, and patches to ensure system reliability and security.
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     5. Data Management & Security:
        1. Manage and maintain research data, ensuring accuracy, accessibility, and security.
        2. Implement data protection protocols and comply with relevant research institution and federal regulations and standards.
        3. Monitor system performance and conduct audits to ensure data integrity and confidentiality.
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        5. User Assistance and Training:
           1. Provide technical support to researchers and staff, including troubleshooting user-reported issues.
           2. Develop and deliver training sessions and user guides on the use of research systems and software.
           3. Create and update documentation for system processes and user instructions SOP.
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           5. Collaboration and Reporting:
              1. Work closely with the Director of Operations & Infrastructure and team researchers, SMU IT staff, and other stakeholders to understand and address system needs.
              2. Provide regular updates and reports on system performance issues and improvements.
              3. Participate in team meetings and contribute to project planning and strategy discussions.
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              5. Technical Support & Troubleshooting:
                 1. Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues related to research systems and equipment.
                 2. Coordinate with vendors and SMU IT teams to address hardware and software problems.
                 3. Document and track technical issues and resolutions to improve support processes.
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                 5. Other Tasks:
                    1. Assist with creating, maintaining, and updating ORIs website.
                    2. Support operational activities to streamline workflow processes, policies, and procedures systematically.
                    3. Attend professional development training opportunities in the field to stay present with changes in technology.
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                       Education and Experience

                       • Bachelors degree is required.
                       • Masters degree is preferred.
                       • A Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is preferred.
                       • A minimum of two years of experience is required.
                       • Experience with website design and management is required.
                       • Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
                       • Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies.
                       • Strong written communication skills.
                       • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and analyze problems as well as devise solutions.
                       • Strong organizational planning and time management skills.
                       • Ability to manage numerous tasks concurrently with attention to detail.
                       • Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and work as part of a team.
                       • Basic knowledge in computer science and system development (i.e., coding, programming, networks, operating systems, cloud computing, etc.).
                       • Familiarity with using JavaScript, SQL, and Python.
                       • Understanding of encryption, malware, and phishing.

                       Physical and Environmental Demands

                       • Deadline to Apply: Open until filled. Priority consideration may be given to applications received by March 4, 2026.
                       • EEO Statement: SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.
                       • The Executive Director for Access and Equity and Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequitysmu.edu.
                       • Benefits: SMU offers staff a broad competitive array of health and related benefits, including traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, as well as a wide range of wellness programs to help attract support and retain employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution. SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and if you meet SMUs retirement eligibility criteria during your retirement years after you leave SMU.