UConn Careers

JOB SUMMARY

The Institute of Materials Science (IMS) at the University of Connecticut (UConn) is seeking applicants for a full-time Co-Director of the Industrial Affiliates Program (IAP) to join our technical staff team. The Institute of Materials Science is an interdisciplinary institute with a threefold mission fostering education, research, and outreach in all areas of the materials sciences. Within the Institute of Materials Science, the Industrial Affiliates Program develops meaningful relationships with industry partners to coordinate materials-related research, development, and production projects through annual memberships and/or fee-for service work. Under the supervision of the IMS Director, the IAP Co-Director will be one of two Directors overseeing IAP, with a focus on building external partnerships and business development.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• In collaboration with Co-Director, lead the strategic planning, implementation, and evaluation of administrative and fiscal services and activities for IAP.
• Ensure internal procedures align with IMS and University policies and expectations.
• Maintain a financially sustainable IAP by managing memberships, optimizing fee-for-service projects, and exploring funding opportunities.
• Promote new IAP annual memberships and manage existing memberships.
• Foster close working relationships with industry partners to understand their technology and business challenges.
• Encourage and oversee fee-for-service interactions and ensure they serve as an entry point for future memberships.
• Lead discussions and initiatives about Annual Meetings, needs of IAP members, new programs, symposia, workshops, and other outreach events.
• Clearly communicate IAP and IMS capabilities and services to potential and existing industry partners.
• Coordinate project quotes and timelines in collaboration with senior leadership, lab managers, and support staff.
• Prepare accurate and succinct reports for industrial sponsors in collaboration with laboratory managers, ensuring alignment with project goals and expectations.
• Provide rapid and effective solutions with minimal administrative burden, leveraging UConn IMS core labs and faculty expertise.
• Establish best practices for data collection, storage, and interpretation to ensure consistency and accessibility.
• Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.
• Facilitate collaboration between IMS and non-IMS faculty on campus when additional expertise or resources are needed.
• Serve as subject matter expert for students, faculty, staff, and industry customers on matters relating to IAP policies, procedures, and services.
• Work on related special projects as directed by IMS leadership.
• Perform related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Advanced degree in materials science or a related field.
2. Experience in new business development, relationship management, sales, and/or related business area(s).
3. Demonstrated ability to work with diverse populations.
4. Mastery of written and verbal communication to a diverse audience.
5. Excellent customer service and problem-solving skills.
6. Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment.
7. Facility with Microsoft products and software applications.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Sound knowledge of scientific principles applied to highly specialized materials, science-related tasks and laboratory techniques.
2. 5+ years of experience in new business development, relationship management, sales, and/or related business area(s).
3. Experience working in a higher education setting.
4. Familiarity with companies based in Connecticut and surrounding states.
5. Demonstrated knowledge of UConn business processes.
6. Experience working with UConn electronic systems.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time end-date position. The University offers a competitive salary, outstanding benefits including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. Salary will be commensurate with the successful candidate’s background and experience. 

Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the American Association of University Professors UConn Chapter (AAUP).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #498914 to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references.

Screening will begin immediately, and the search will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Priority will be given to applications received by 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on March 7, 2025. 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.