Associate Director of dSAIC / Director of Applied Research and Partnerships, UMKC Office of Research and Innovation

Key Responsibilities

• Build and lead collaborative relationships with industry, nonprofit, and government partners to identify shared priorities and co-develop impactful applied research and innovation initiatives.
• Serve as a solutions architect, leveraging technical expertise and domain knowledge to align client and partner needs with dSAIC’s capabilities—proposing tailored, implementable solutions.
• Identify and pursue various revenue streams, including corporate sponsorships, public-private partnerships, grants, and philanthropic contributions.
• Represent dSAIC in high-level external engagements, conferences, and strategic forums—clearly communicating research strengths, technical capabilities, and partnership opportunities to a wide range of stakeholders.

Academic Integration & Research Support

• Lead and support the development of large-scale, competitive proposals, applying technical insight and strategic positioning to strengthen dSAIC’s funding profile—particularly in data-intensive, security, and AI-focused domains.
• Facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration by connecting faculty, students, and research teams with external partners and funding aligned to real-world challenges.
• Engage academic leadership, mentors, and faculty within the (CAM and SSE), helping to guide the development of the next generation of data-driven professionals.

Resource Generation & Sustainability

• Design and implement long-term strategies to support the growth and sustainability of dSAIC’s research, operations, and infrastructure.
• Engage with external UMKC stakeholders, including community constituents, regional economic partners, and corporate collaborators, to cultivate support, align shared priorities, and promote investment in dSAIC’s mission.
• Collaborate closely with the UMKC Foundation and leadership to advance fundraising, donor engagement, and strategic development planning, as needed.
• Support operational and financial planning to ensure alignment with dSAIC’s strategic goals, evolving priorities, and the broader institutional mission.

Shift

Full-time (1.0 FTE), benefit eligible.

Occasional travel and evening/weekend participation may be required to support partnerships and outreach.

Minimum Qualifications

• A Master's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 7 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.
• Must be eligible for a security clearance; employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strongly Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master’s degree in computer science, data science, engineering, or a closely related discipline.
  • Demonstrated expertise in data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, or a related field, gained through experience in industry, academia, military, or applied research settings.
  • Demonstrated ability to assess external partner or client needs and develop actionable, technically sound solutions that align with institutional or organizational goals.
  • Demonstrated experience in developing and writing successful proposals with external partners (e.g., industry, government, nonprofit), including multi-institutional or collaborative efforts.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership and administrative experience, with the capacity to manage cross-functional teams and deliver complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts for various audiences, including non-technical stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated strategic mindset and track record of building successful cross-sector partnerships and securing external resources.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of financial planning, personnel management, and operational best practices.
• Ph.D. or other advanced degree in a relevant technical or interdisciplinary field.
• Five or more years of experience in senior leadership roles, particularly in research strategy, external engagement, or applied innovation.
• Experience in applied research, commercialization, or innovation translation, with the ability to bridge technical development with partner value.
• Demonstrated success in leading or supporting large-scale proposals and securing extramural funding (e.g., federal grants, industry contracts, philanthropic gifts).
• Familiarity with managing multi-institutional collaborations and long-term, data-driven projects across academic, corporate, and community environments.

Skills and Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines with high accuracy and minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong editing and proofreading abilities.
• Outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail.
• High proficiency in Excel, data analysis, and creating quantitative reports and dashboards.
• Experience in streamlining administrative and operational workflows.
• Strong interpersonal skills and professionalism in engaging with various stakeholders.

Anticipated Hiring Range

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as  $115,000 to $130,000 annually.

Grade

University Title: DIRECTOR RESEARCH AND INSTITUTE PROGRAMS

Community Information

Kansas City is a vibrant community with an affordable cost of living. Our UMKC campuses are centered in the hubs of business activity, cultural arts, (some great barbeque and ethnic cuisine!) and health science research engagement for both campuses. As one of the largest cities in Missouri, we are home to national championship sports teams, a rich history of cultural arts and music, NASCAR racing, an international airport, and a community that is very engaged with and supportive of our university initiatives. Our beautiful state has rolling hills, rivers, lakes, and long bike/hiking trails for those that enjoy time in the great outdoors. Kansas City offers something for everyone!

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.