Program Director, AFRL Regional Network Mid-Atlantic

Overview

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Regional Network - Mid-Atlantic (RNMA) at Cornell University has an immediate opening for a Program Director. The RNMA is leading innovators within its regional ecosystem of colleges and universities, industry, startups, and venture investors to identify, prototype, and develop dual-use technology – both commercial and military – while providing experiences to apply processes and tools used by industry, academia, and venture capitalists to translate their concepts and research into useful products. 

The Program Director contributes to the overall success of the RNMA by coordinating requirements and activities between AFRL, RNMA leadership, its members and collaborators through its collaborative funding program and tracking and reporting the performance, cost, schedule, and impact of each collaboration activity. The position will identify strengths in organizations and individuals, build productive coalitions, and represent the RMNA with the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.

Responsibilities
The Program Director will manage and optimize RNMA’s engagement with the Air Force Research Laboratory enterprise, as well as the United States Air Force and Space Force, by recruiting, energizing, and stimulating translational collaboration among colleges and universities, defense contractors of diverse sizes and sectors, and early-stage companies in civil and commercial markets. The position will work in partnership with internal and external teams to lead and coordinate research translation activities across organizational boundaries.

The Program Director will work to expand RNMA membership, including government, academic, startup, investor, and industry members. The Program Director also will work with RNMA leadership and staff to expand RNMA membership, maximize effectiveness of RNMA operations, including research and workforce development activities; tracking project milestones, managing and reporting financial performance; streamlining daily operations; evaluating RNMA performance; and executing special projects.

Through leading the RNMA’s partnership funding program, this position will encourage the formation and development of multi-organizational research teams and provide mentorship and support to RNMA members applying for funding.

The position’s responsibilities require effective oral and written communications with academic, industry, and government collaborators in the Mid-Atlantic region and crisp, compelling, and clear guidance in the coordination of interorganizational teams.

The Program Director will be knowledgeable and passionate about the value and impact of government-funded research programs and will align resources and programs to help participants garner the best value. The Program Director is motivated by the call to duty to serve our country and community by creating an environment in which students, academics, scientists, and engineers can be successful in increasing knowledge and human capital in both commercial and defense sectors.

The position will not have direct reports, but it will direct and coordinate the work of others via collaborative project management and contractual requirements. This role requires frequent travel (approximately 30% time) to AFRL locations, regional member sites, conferences, and events to promote the RNMA and engage with current and prospective members.

What We Need
Send us a cover letter and resume outlining your interest in this position and explaining how your experience and qualifications match the position requirements. The letter is an important component of your application.

When evaluating your candidacy, we will look for evidence of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree with 5-7 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination

• Ability to think strategically and align multiple interests (especially educational, commercial, and governmental) to address broader needs or goals

• Experience fostering successful collaborations or contributing to organizational partnerships

• Proficiency in computer technology, including Microsoft Office applications, relational databases for talent management, customer relationship management, and other essential internet software

• Strong skills in research, analysis, and reporting

• Ability to organize, prioritize and monitor projects, tasks, and budgets

• Effective communications with individuals and groups, including presentation and facilitation skills

• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members 

• Working knowledge of applicable laws, contracts, and standards

• Experience working effectively in a fast-paced and innovative team environment

• Ability to mentor and motivate diverse interorganizational teams and resolve conflicts

• Ability to understand diverse perspectives and treat others with respect

• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing

Additional preferred qualifications include:

• An advanced degree (master’s, professional or PhD) in science or engineering, business, or related field from an accredited academic institution

• 7+ years of related experience, including project management and data analysis

• Demonstrated understanding of current market trends and forces affecting innovation translation

• Government Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP) certification or PMP certification

This is a fixed-term position with the appointment period based on available funding. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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