Strategic Partnerships Lead, Physical Sciences

State University of New York at Buffalo; New York (NY); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Senior Program Associate, Physical Sciences at State University of New York at Buffalo, will strengthen industry engagement and foster collaborative R&D in physical sciences, engineering, and advanced manufacturing, including semiconductors, materials, energy, and applied AI for manufacturing.

The role connects companies with UB’s research, develops proposals and agreements, and manages industry-facing projects while supporting BEP programs such as NY SMART I-Corridor C3 and the Center of

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 3 years of experience in business development, project management, entrepreneurship, innovation, or economic development in industry, academia, or government.
• Ability to manage projects, contracts, and company relationships.
• Willingness to attend events, visit local companies, customers, and faculty.
• Ability to achieve unit and program goals and objectives.
• Excellent communication capabilities, including strong presentation and written skills.
• Strong Microsoft Office proficiency, particularly in Word and Excel.
• Self-motivated, with the maturity to engage with faculty and represent UB to external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a key contact for companies in physical sciences and engineering.
• Identify and cultivate partner relationships through outreach and events.
• Represent UB and BEP at conferences to promote university‑industry collaboration.
• Develop proposals, SOWs, budgets, and agreements for collaborative projects.
• Manage active projects to meet milestones and deliverables.
• Coordinate with BEP Finance, Sponsored Projects Services, and Tech Transfer to formalize contracts.

Skills

Project management

Written and verbal communication

External stakeholder relations

Event outreach

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced STEM degree (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)

Job description

Senior Program Associate, Physical Sciences at State University of New York at Buffalo, will strengthen industry engagement and foster collaborative R&D in physical sciences, engineering, and advanced manufacturing, including semiconductors, materials, energy, and applied AI for manufacturing.

The role connects companies with UB’s research, develops proposals and agreements, and manages industry-facing projects while supporting BEP programs such as NY SMART I-Corridor C3 and the Center of