Research Center Program Manager

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Assistant Director for Strategic Partnerships, the Grant funded Research Center Program Manager will play a key role in overseeing daily operations for one or more emerging research centers. This position will collaborate with Center Directors, Managing Directors, and Advisory Groups to ensure the effective delivery of programs and activities. Collaboration both within and beyond institutional boundaries is critical to driving scientific advancement and innovation. Team-based research efforts demand strong coordination, clear communication, and the ability to manage diverse priorities.

At Columbia University's School of Engineering and Applied Science, several new research centers and initiatives have been launched with a focus on Artificial Intelligence. These efforts thrive on both internal partnerships across the university and external collaborations with industry and other key stakeholders. To support these growing initiatives, Columbia Engineering is building a dedicated team of administrators who will work closely with faculty directors and center staff to manage the operations of these multifaceted programs.

Responsibilities

Program Operations and Administration (50%) :

Oversees day-to-day operational needs for the Center(s); acts as a main point of contact for operations topics. Resolves moderately complex concerns and problems.

Develops, initiates, and oversees Center programs and initiatives, including defining Center needs, managing logistics, and reviewing and evaluating program outcomes. Programs include internal Research Award and Fellowship programs, Seminars, Workshops, Hackathons, and more.

Provides operational management for the Center(s), including planning and coordinating meetings and events, arranging visitor travel, securing venues and catering services, and preparing comprehensive meeting materials to ensure seamless execution

In collaboration with the SEAS Assistant Director of Event Logistics and Director of Events and Strategic Programming, coordinates large-scale events in support of Center's goals

Provides critical support to the Center Director and staff in advancing the Center's priorities, contributing to strategic planning efforts and the development of its research and educational agenda

Financial Transaction Operations (15%) :

Initiates and monitors expenditures and reimbursement processes in compliance with university policies.

Reviews, analyzes, and processes travel and business-related reimbursements and expenditures; provides assistance with purchase order submissions

Contributes to the preparation of budgets and supporting documentation for grant proposals and funding applications.

Communications and Web Management (15%)

With support from SEAS Communications, develops marketing materials for the Center(s)

Maintains the Center(s) websites; develops and publishes regular web news updates and newsletters to highlight key activities, achievements, and announcements

Relationship Management (15%) :

Builds and maintains productive relationships with collaborating academic units within Columbia, and with external collaborating partners

With the Center Director and the Strategic Collaborations team in the Office for Research, support engagements with industry partners and sponsors

(5%) Performs related duties & responsibilities as assigned / requested

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor's degree.

2-4 years' experience coordinating complex projects or programs.

Experience working in a university setting.

Attention to detail, ability to work independently and under pressure, and ability to effectively prioritize multiple tasks with minimal supervision.

Interpersonal skills, including the ability to handle confidential information with discretion, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, with a proactive approach to anticipating team needs.

Demonstrated written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate tactfully in small and large group settings with staff, faculty, students, alumni, and other key stakeholders.

Technical skills, including proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Excel; ability to quickly learn new technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

3-5 year's experience coordinating complex projects or programs.

Interest in or experience with Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Science, or related topics.

• Submission of a cover letter along with the application form for full consideration.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.