Research Business Engagement Director - 527826

Pay Grade / Pay Range : Minimum : $74,200 - Midpoint : $100,200 (Salaried E12)

Department / Organization : 701101 - VP Research

Normal Work Schedule : Monday – Friday 8 : 00am to 5 : 00pm

Job Summary : Serves as a key advisor to the Vice President for Research & Economic Development (VPRED) in driving effective business engagement, communication, and implementation of division initiatives and priorities to raise research and economic development visibility and enhance the UA research reputation with an initial critical focus on High Performance Computing (HPC) and the Alabama Cyber Institute (ACI). Facilitates business engagement and research communication between the VPRED and external partners for purposes of developing strategy to identify, cultivate, and coordinate sponsored research opportunities, especially in terms of corporate engagement.

Additional Department Summary : The University of Alabama (UA) is entering an exciting era of growth as it continues to expand its research enterprise and strengthen its role as the state’s flagship university. The Office for Research & Economic Development (ORED) drives this mission by supporting world-class faculty, advancing cutting-edge research, and developing meaningful collaborations with government, industry, and community partners while managing more than $600 million in open contracts and awards. ORED is home to five signature research institutes that address some of society’s most pressing challenges in areas such as water, transportation, the health sciences, and advanced materials. These institutes serve as focal points for interdisciplinary discovery, innovation, and workforce development, positioning UA as a national leader in research excellence and economic impact.

This position will play a central role in this mission by shaping and leading how the University presents itself to state, national, and international leaders. Responsible for planning and executing high-profile visits from government officials, industry executives, and dignitaries from peer universities, ensuring that each engagement reflects the excellence, breadth, and impact of UA research. By coordinating across all ORED administrative units and signature institutes, this position ensures seamless and strategic representation of the University to external audiences, providing a unified message that demonstrates the institution’s capabilities and commitments. This work not only strengthens UA’s reputation but also drives meaningful outcomes such as new partnerships, enhanced visibility, and expanded research funding.

As UA accelerates its trajectory toward greater national prominence, the importance of research engagement has never been higher. The position will collaborate closely with senior leaders across UA, with state and federal agencies, and with global partners to ensure the University’s research strengths are showcased effectively. The role requires anticipating national priorities, identifying opportunities for alignment, and positioning UA as a trusted partner in solving society’s most urgent challenges. By leveraging UA’s growing research infrastructure, its expanding portfolio of federally funded centers, and its increasing engagement with industry, ensures that the University is seen as a hub of innovation and a driver of economic development for Alabama and beyond.

This role is ideal for professionals who thrive at the intersection of research, public service, and relationship building. Work directly with senior leaders across UA, the State of Alabama, and the broader national and global research community. Help design and deliver experiences that not only elevate UA’s visibility but also advance the University’s mission of discovery, innovation, and service. As UA approaches its bicentennial celebration in 2031, this position will be a highly visible leader shaping the institution’s reputation, expanding its partnerships, and ensuring its research enterprise continues to have a transformative impact on the state, the nation, and the world.

Required Minimum Qualifications : Bachelor's degree and four (4) years of experience; OR master's degree and two (2) years of experience.

Skills and Knowledge : Expertise in planning and executing high-profile events and visits. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. Ability to work effectively with a variety of stakeholders at state, national, and international levels.

Preferred Qualifications : Master’s, JD, or PhD. Experience at an R1 research university or comparable government / industry setting Prior work with government officials, corporate leaders, or international delegations. Familiarity with research operations and economic development priorities.

Background Investigation Statement : Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

Equal Employment Opportunity : The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment / Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC’s Know Your Rights : Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.