Sr. Principal Scientist - R&D

The Research Strategic Office (RSO) of Toyota Research Institute of North America (TRINA) is seeking a Senior Program Manager for Research Strategy & Portfolio Management.

About the role

This position is responsible for leading TRINA's research strategy, portfolio governance, and strategic partnership initiatives that directly influence long-term research investments, organizational priorities, and Toyota's global innovation strategy. Working directly with research leadership, executive stakeholders, and external partners, this role evaluates emerging opportunities, optimizes research investments, and strengthens TRINA's position within the global research ecosystem. The role serves as a strategic advisor to TRINA leadership and operates with a high degree of autonomy in developing recommendations that influence enterprise research direction, resource allocation, and partnership priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and continuous improvement of portfolio governance frameworks that guide research prioritization, investment decisions, and resource allocation across TRINA.
• Analyze research investments, outcomes, and emerging opportunities to ensure alignment with Toyota global strategy and long-term innovation objectives.
• Advise senior leadership on research prioritization, resource allocation, and strategic investment decisions.
• Lead strategic planning activities that connect research initiatives to future business opportunities and technology roadmaps.
• Cook up strategic research initiatives across TRINA and Toyota global research organizations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with leading universities, national laboratories, industry partners, government agencies, and research consortia.
• Representing TRINA with executive leaders in external strategic collaborations.
• Prepare executive-level business cases, analyses, presentations, and recommendations.
• Provide strategic insights on AI, advanced technology, and research ecosystems.
• Influence organizational decisions through strategic analyses, executive communications, and cross-functional leadership.

Requirements

• Must have a PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Physical Sciences, Business Strategy, Public Policy, or other related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 15+ years of progressive leadership experience spanning research strategy, innovation management, technology planning, and strategic partnerships.
• Strong record of influencing executive decision-making and shaping enterprise-level priorities.
• Experience or an understanding of research funding ecosystems and university collaboration models.
• Track record of leading complex, cross-functional initiatives to successful outcomes.
• Exceptional analytical, communication, stakeholder management, and executive presentation skills.

Qualifications

• Must be willing to travel up to 10%-20% domestically and internationally and maintain scheduling flexibility to participate in early and or late-evening meetings with stakeholders as business needs require.
• Experience leading or supporting advanced research organizations and innovation portfolios.
• Experience or working knowledge of AI, technology forecasting, benchmarking, and innovation intelligence.
• Experience in global, matrixed organizations.

Benefits

• A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career, as well as tuition reimbursement.
• Team Member Vehicle Purchase Discount.
• Toyota Team Member Lease Vehicle Program (if applicable).
• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans for your entire family.
• Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match, as well as an annual retirement contribution from Toyota regardless of whether you contribute.
• Paid holidays and paid time off.
• Referral services related to prenatal services, adoption, childcare, schools and more.
• Tax Advantaged Accounts (Health Savings Account, Health Care FSA, Dependent Care FSA).
• Relocation (if applicable).

This position will be located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It requires onsite attendance Monday through Thursday and remote work on Fridays may be permitted based on project priorities and business requirements; however, employees should be prepared for periodic mandatory onsite Fridays as needed.