Director of Industry Research Partnerships

Raleigh, NC • Full-time (1.0 FTE) • 12-month recurring appointment

About the Department

The primary function of the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service (NCARS) unit is to develop the knowledge and technology needed to improve productivity, profitability and sustainability of industries in agriculture and the life sciences; develop ways to conserve and improve the state’s natural resources and environment; improve the health, well-being and quality of life of North Carolina’s citizens; and provide the science base for academic and extension programs.

Responsibilities

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at NC State University is seeking a Director of Industry Research Partnerships to lead the development and expansion of strategic collaborations between CALS researchers and industry partners. Reporting to the Associate Dean for Research and Director of NCARS, this position serves as a key connector between faculty, corporate partners, and university stakeholders to advance research, innovation, and workforce development.

• Strategic Partnership Development:
  • Develop and grow long-term industry partnerships that support research, education, extension, and workforce development initiatives.
  • Identify and cultivate new corporate partnerships, including emerging start-up companies, with an emphasis on opportunities supporting the North Carolina Food Animal Initiative (FAI).
  • Create innovative partnership models, including sponsored research, grants, contracts, research centers, internships, co-location opportunities, and other collaborative initiatives.
  • Stay informed of CALS research strengths and emerging industry priorities to proactively connect faculty with corporate partners.
  • Create opportunities for faculty and students to engage with industry through meaningful collaborations and experiential learning.
• Corporate Relationship Management:
  • Serve as the primary liaison between corporate partners and CALS, ensuring responsive communication and successful execution of partnership agreements.
  • Build trusted, long-term relationships by delivering exceptional service and identifying opportunities to expand existing collaborations.
  • Maintain a comprehensive inventory of corporate partnerships and establish best practices for partnership management.
  • Collaborate with the Office of Sponsored Programs and Regulatory Compliance Services (SPARCS) to support research agreements and contracting processes.
  • Help safeguard NC State’s intellectual property by coordinating with the Office of Research Commercialization throughout partnership development.
• Campus Collaboration & Research Commercialization:
  • Partner with CALS leadership, University Advancement, and university corporate engagement colleagues to develop coordinated strategies for industry engagement.
  • Connect faculty with commercialization resources and licensing opportunities through the Office of Research Commercialization.
  • Coach faculty and students in communicating the value and real-world applications of their research to industry partners.
  • Plan and lead corporate visits, research showcases, and engagement events that strengthen relationships and promote CALS research excellence.

In addition to the core responsibilities, there may be occasional opportunities to take on additional duties to build skills and explore new areas.

Requirements

• PhD or equivalent degree in an Agriculture or Life Sciences discipline; or a Master’s degree in an Agriculture and Life Sciences discipline and directly equivalent experience will be considered for exceptional candidates. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
• Expertise managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders, competing priorities, and strategic initiatives.
• Skilled at translating complex research into compelling written and verbal communications, including proposals, presentations, and executive-level materials that engage academic, industry, and external stakeholders.
• Success collaborating within cross-functional teams to build consensus and achieve shared organizational goals.
• Experience partnering with faculty, researchers, or other academic stakeholders to advance research initiatives.
• Proven ability to convene multidisciplinary teams, cultivate innovative research concepts, and communicate the value of research programs to industry partners.
• A valid NC Driver’s License and the ability to obtain one within 60 days of hire (must be maintained throughout employment).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the corporate food animal, precision agriculture, or related industry sector, with an understanding of industry trends, partnership models, and stakeholder needs.
• Proven success cultivating, securing, and managing strategic corporate partnerships that support research, innovation, or organizational objectives.
• Established knowledge of the North Carolina corporate landscape, including the ability to identify and engage relevant industry partners and stakeholders.
• Working knowledge of intellectual property, patent law, and the ability to manage confidential information and situations.
• Understanding of NC State/CALS research strengths, with the ability to recognize synergies across faculty programs and translate them into value for corporate partners.

Benefits

As a Pack member, you can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• Childcare benefits
• Wellness & Recreation Membership
• Wellness Programs

Perks and benefit eligibility is based on part-time or full-time employment status.

Schedule

Monday - Friday / 8am - 5pm (additional nights and weekends as needed)