Research Engagement Manager

Job Summary

The Research Engagement Professional cultivates strategic external research partnerships with industry, foundations, and government entities. This role supports multidisciplinary priorities across Georgia Tech research units, including robotics, space, manufacturing, and materials. The incumbent collaborates with faculty and leadership to identify strengths, align partnerships, and steward long‑term collaborations.

Typically Interacts With:
Students, Staff, Faculty, External Partners

Typically Advises/Counsels:
Students, Staff, Faculty

Supervises:
No

• Contribute to the development and execution of partnership strategies aligned with unit priorities, leveraging existing relationships and leadership input.
• In collaboration with unit leadership or sponsored program, identify and pursue funding opportunities from grants, foundations, and corporate sponsors.
• Apply domain‑specific knowledge (e.g., robotics, AI, satellite tech, manufacturing, materials) to support and advance research collaborations.
• Support responses to collaborative research opportunities, including federal programs and strategic initiatives.
• Build and maintain relationships with external stakeholders, including industry partners, foundations, and government agencies.
• Represent the unit at external events and communicate the value of Georgia Techs research capabilities.
• Develop outreach materials, reports, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Coordinate with career services and industry partners to promote internships, co‑ops, and job opportunities aligned with research partnerships.
• Assess engagement outcomes and recommend improvements to partnership models and strategies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Educational Requirements

2 Year / Associate Degree in related discipline or equivalent, related experience

Required Experience

0 - No prior relevant work experience required

Knowledge

• Research Ecosystem Knowledge:
  Understanding of academic research environments, funding mechanisms, and external partnership models.
• Domain Expertise:
  Familiarity with one or more technical domains (e.g., robotics, AI, satellite tech, manufacturing, materials).
• Federal and Foundation Funding:
  Knowledge of major federal research programs (e.g., NSF, NIH, DoD) and foundation grant processes.
• Industry Trends:
  Awareness of emerging technologies and industry needs relevant to Georgia Tech's research priorities.

Skills

• Strategic Partnership Development:
  Ability to identify, cultivate, and sustain external research collaborations.
• Proposal and Grant Writing:
  Skill in developing compelling proposals and securing external funding.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trust with external partners.
• Event Representation:
  Ability to represent the unit professionally at conferences, meetings, and public forums.
• Data Interpretation & Reporting:
  Skill in preparing reports, presentations, and outreach materials for diverse audiences.
• Project Coordination:
  Ability to manage timelines, coordinate across units, and support collaborative initiatives.

Abilities

• Cross‑functional
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Work effectively with faculty, researchers, and administrative units.
• Adaptability:
  Navigate complex and evolving research landscapes and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Analytical Thinking:
  Assess engagement effectiveness and recommend improvements.
• Communication:
  Translate technical research into an accessible language for external stakeholders.
• Initiative:
  Take proactive steps to identify opportunities and solve problems independently.

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning and the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on‑line at…