Director, Defense Research Strategy & National Partnerships

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); Presencial; USD 140.000 - 180.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

The University of Kentucky seeks a Director for Defense Research Strategy to join the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR). This role will lead strategic efforts to grow UK’s defense and national security research portfolio, aligning capabilities with evolving priorities through collaboration with faculty, government, and industry.

The ideal candidate brings a doctoral degree and 7+ years of cross-sector leadership, with a proven record in building partnerships and translating

Formación

• PhD in engineering, science, or related field is preferred.
• Minimum seven years of experience across multiple sectors including industry, government, and academia.

Responsabilidades

• Develop and execute a university-wide strategy for defense, national security, dual-use tech, and competitiveness.
• Analyze federal priorities to identify near-, mid-, and long-term opportunities for UK research.
• Build and sustain relationships with defense agencies, military labs, and industry partners.
• Translate sponsor priorities into actionable opportunities for UK faculty and teams.
• Support development of multidisciplinary proposals, centers, and strategic initiatives.
• Convene teams across health, energy, AI, infrastructure, and transportation.
• Mentor faculty on defense funding processes and pathways from research to deployment.
• Advise leadership on priorities, partnerships, and major initiatives.

Conocimientos

Strategic partnerships

Federal research programs

Proposal development

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Program management

Communication

Five years experience

Educación

Doctoral degree in engineering, science, or related technical field

Descripción del empleo

The University of Kentucky seeks a Director for Defense Research Strategy to join the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR). This role will lead strategic efforts to grow UK’s defense and national security research portfolio, aligning capabilities with evolving priorities through collaboration with faculty, government, and industry.

The ideal candidate brings a doctoral degree and 7+ years of cross-sector leadership, with a proven record in building partnerships and translating