Research Collaboration Coord (Boyd - AI Center)

Classification Title

Management Analyst

About the Role

Serve as a vital connector and strategic advisor to the Associate Center Director of AI, working closely with stakeholders to define industry-driven research priorities and coordinating the research team to ensure those priorities are met. The coordinator will also link faculty expertise with agricultural technology stakeholders such as equipment manufacturers, AI developers, robotics firms, and grower organizations. They will coordinate meetings with faculty and engineering teams to determine optimal technical approaches that address priorities and support the establishment of joint projects with industry. They will collaborate with UF Innovate and other university commercialization units to ensure efficient processes that support technology transfer and commercialization and assist startups and entrepreneurial ventures by connecting them with relevant UF research expertise.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a vital connector and strategic advisor to the Associate Center Director of AI, working closely with stakeholders to define industry-driven research priorities and coordinating the research team to ensure those priorities are met.
• Link faculty expertise with agricultural technology stakeholders such as equipment manufacturers, AI developers, robotics firms, and grower organizations.
• Coordinate meetings with faculty and engineering teams to determine optimal technical approaches that address priorities and support the establishment of joint projects with industry.
• Collaborate with UF Innovate and other university commercialization units to ensure efficient processes that support technology transfer and commercialization and assist startups and entrepreneurial ventures by connecting them with relevant UF research expertise.
• Drive for meeting with external stakeholders.
• Maintain records of engagement activities, project outcomes, and stakeholder feedback to guide continuous improvement.
• Contribute to UF/IFAS committees and task forces relevant to agricultural technology, AI applications, and industry partnerships.
• Support research activities through structured project planning, organization, and facilitation.
• Support the development of sponsored projects, field demonstrations, and agreements that accelerate the translation of research into scalable agricultural solutions, while supporting startups through access to faculty expertise.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and two years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Master’s degree in a relevant field in agriculture, agribusiness, engineering, business, or a related field and familiarity with agricultural production systems and/or AI/automation technologies.
• Experience in commercialization, licensing, or startup development.
• Knowledge of Florida’s agricultural industry and land-grant mission.
• Experience working for Ag Tech organizations.
• Ability to travel frequently.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and two years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Preferred: 3 years of professional experience in industry relations, technology transfer, business development, or stakeholder engagement.
• Familiarity with agricultural production systems and/or AI/automation technologies.
• Experience in commercialization, licensing, or startup development.
• Knowledge of Florida’s agricultural industry and land-grant mission.
• Experience working for Ag Tech organizations.
• Ability to travel frequently.

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits

Full benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.

Pay

$85,000-$105,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Schedule

Varies based on project needs and responsibilities.