Careers at the University of Massachusetts Lowell

General Summary of Position:

The Associate Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation Acceleration leads key strategic initiatives that drive research commercialization and innovation at the university. This role includes oversight of research development, technology transfer, new venture development, the campus Venture Fund, the Massachusetts Medical Device Development Center (M2D2), iHub small business incubator, and core research facilities. The AVC coordinates strategically with activities associated with the Lowell Innovation Network Corridor (LINC) and collaborate with various research and economic development groups, including those focused on defense and sustainability. The AVC is a dynamic leader with significant experience in growing research ecosystems, developing strategic partnerships, and fostering entrepreneurship. With a strong background in academic administration and research development, they build capacity for innovation, strengthen external collaborations across academia and industry, and help advance the university’s externally funded research enterprise. The AVC collaborate across departments and research units to ensure the alignment of innovation, commercialization, and strategic research priorities with external funding opportunities, thereby enhancing the university’s impact on regional and global research ecosystems.

Minimum Qualifications (Required):

Given the nature and responsibilities of the position, only U.S. persons (any individual who is a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident alien of the United States, or a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C.1324b(a)(3)) will be considered for this position.

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in a technology-related field, with 10+ years of experience in research, innovation, and/or academic administration
• Demonstrated expertise in research development, with a proven track record of increasing externally funded research through successful grant proposals, contracts, and strategic collaborations with funding agencies
• Experience managing research development offices or teams, with a focus on increasing grant submissions and growing research revenue
• Demonstrated experience in leading research acceleration, with a proven track record in increasing research revenue and supporting research commercialization
• Strong background in building strategic partnerships with industry, government, and academic institutions, as demonstrated by prior leadership roles
• Experience managing cross-functional teams, supervising research and innovation units, and driving organizational growth
• Commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the research and innovation ecosystem

Additional Considerations:

• Extensive experience in leading and growing research development teams, including increasing staff and research revenue across a global university system
• Proven success in driving strategic research initiatives that foster technology transfer, venture creation, and industry engagement
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, demonstrated through leadership in DEIB initiatives across multiple institutions
• Expertise in building and managing partnerships with government agencies, industry leaders, and academic institutions, with a focus on creating impactful research collaborations and commercialization pathways
• Ability to hold a security clearance at the Secret Level, reflecting trusted experience in handling sensitive research and partnerships preferred
• Proven leadership in supporting professional development and mentorship, with a demonstrated commitment to increasing diversity in the research workforce
• Skilled in managing complex, large-scale grant proposals, resulting in substantial extramural research funding and institutional research growth

Preferred Qualifications:

• Deep knowledge of at least one focus areas of LINC (e.g., life sciences, microelectronics, robotics, cybersecurity) with a strong ability to bridge academic research and industry applications

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Initial review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. However, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applications is received.

This is a Non-Unit, Professional position.

Please include a resume and cover letter with your application. Names and contact information of three references will be required during the application process.