About Thriving Youth in a Digital Environment (TYDE) 

Thriving Youth in a Digital Environment (TYDE) is a pan-university research initiative at the University of Virginia dedicated to advancing understanding of the role of digital technologies in healthy youth development. We catalyze and grow expertise at UVA, and foster a collaborative, interdisciplinary community conducting cutting-edge research on the impact of digital technology on healthy and unhealthy youth development, and its potential to advance intervention and prevention solutions.  

Position Overview 

TYDE seeks an accomplished Grant Writer to take the lead on developing and writing competitive federal, state, and private foundation grant proposals. This position is central to TYDE's impact and sustainability, requiring someone who can translate complex research ideas into compelling narratives that secure major funding. Subject-matter expertise that enables the successful applicant to write knowledgably about youth, mental health, and technology is a must. You'll work closely with TYDE leadership and faculty to identify funding opportunities, develop proposal strategies, and craft persuasive applications that advance our mission.  

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead grant development and writing of research proposals for federal agencies (NSF, NIH, etc.) and private foundations focused on youth mental health and technology  

• Collaborate with faculty researchers to develop competitive proposal concepts, research designs, and budgets 

• Write, edit, and/or coordinate all components of complex grant applications, including research narratives, literature reviews, methodology sections, and evaluation plans 

• Manage proposal development timelines and ensure compliance with all funder requirements and university policies 

• Maintain relationships with program officers and liaisons at UVA’s Office of Sponsored Programs 

• Track and report on submitted proposals, awards, and funding trends in the field 

• Contribute to TYDE's strategic planning around research directions and funding priorities.

Required Qualifications   

• Bachelor's degree

• Experience: At least three years of relevant experience required. Grants and Contracts Experience Preferred. A combination of education and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

• Proven track record of securing major science research grants (NIH, NSF, etc.), with demonstrated success writing competitive federal and/or foundation proposals 

• Exceptional writing skills with ability to translate technical research concepts into clear, persuasive prose for diverse audiences 

• Strong project management abilities with experience managing multiple deadlines and priorities simultaneously 

• Collaborative mindset and excellent interpersonal skills for working with TYDE staff and faculty across disciplines 

• Highly self-motivated with strong ability to work independently. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• PhD in Psychology or related field (e.g., developmental psychology, clinical psychology, public health, education, sociology, human development, media studies) 

• Background in interdisciplinary research environments 

• Familiarity with university research administration processes 

• Knowledge of budget development and compliance requirements 

• Deep familiarity with youth mental health and digital technology research, including current debates, key studies, and emerging issues in the field. 

What We Offer 

• Meaningful work that directly supports research improving young people's mental health in the digital age 

• Supportive, collaborative team culture where your expertise is valued 

• Flexibility with remote or in-person work arrangements 

• Professional development opportunities within a major research university 

• University of Virginia benefits package, including health insurance, and generous leave policies. 

About the Position

• Anticipated salary $60,000 - $80,000 - commensurate with education and experience.

• Restricted position with a one year term; renewal is possible but not guaranteed.

• Remote-eligible.

• Primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers.

• Exempt-level, benefited.

• Not be able to sponsor applications for immigration now or in the future. 

About UVA and the Community

Located in central Virginia, the University of Virginia is a highly selective public research institution with a major commitment to undergraduate education. The student experience is grounded in the institutional core values of academic rigor, health and wellness, honor, public service, and student self-governance. For more information about the University of Virginia click here.

How to Apply

Applicants not employed at UVA please apply through the UVA job board; current employees please search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website and complete an application. Include the following documents:

• A CV/resume

• A cover letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration. The position is open until filled but preference will be given to applications received by February 10, 2026. References will be completed via UVA’s standardized process SkillSurvey. A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process. A minimum of three is required. For questions about the application process, please contact Michele Jarman, Academic Recruiter.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.