Defense Research Development Director, Office of the Vice President for Research, Scholarship and Creative Endeavors

$155,000 - $155,000/Yr

The University of Texas System - Austin, TX

Part-time - Senior

Austin, TX

Educational Services

About the position

The Defense Research Development Director will lead strategic and operational coordination of Department of Defense (DOD) research efforts across multiple colleges and schools at UT Austin. This role emphasizes the development of a campus-level strategy for U.S. Department of Defense-sponsored basic research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhancing the university's research capabilities to meet national security needs.

Responsibilities

• Develop a campus-level strategy for DOD-sponsored basic research with an understanding of national security needs.
• Communicate regularly with stakeholders in the strategic planning process including colleges/schools and DOD.
• Interface with principal investigators and organize DOD development symposia to remain current on research capabilities.
• Design and deliver content to help PIs secure DOD-specific funding.
• Maintain relationships with key DOD organizations for coordinated high-ranking visits.
• Establish a DOD research identity and create content for OVPR Defense RD web presence.
• Host DOD-related events and ensure correct protocols are followed.
• Organize Texas Defense Research Workshops in Washington, DC.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• PhD or equivalent research experience in a technical field with at least 5 years of relevant experience.
• Experience developing and managing research projects for the DOD, including proposals and budgets.
• Fluent in differences between DOD and academic culture.
• Ability to prioritize academic requirements and capabilities.
• Experience working with Sponsored Projects Offices on pre and post award management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage numerous parallel activities in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of research university culture through PhD study or administrative work at a US R1 institution.

Nice-to-haves

• Understanding of DOD ecosystem's unique challenges and requirements.
• Experience with funding agencies other than DOD.
• Familiarity with NIST 800-171, ITAR, DFARS compliance frameworks.
• Experience with CHIPS and Science act restrictions and NSPM-33.

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid basic medical coverage
• Retirement contributions
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Paid holidays