Director of Research and Institutional Programs - Critical Materials Crossroads, 74473

The department of Critical Materials Crossroads (CMC) in the Office of Strategic Innovation (OSIN) and the University of Kansas City-Missouri (UMKC).

The Director of Research will co-lead, manage, coordinate and participate in the technical vision, strategy and implementation of Critical Materials Crossroads (CMC) solutions. Economic- and proposal development are expected as enabling implementations. The position reports directly to the Vice Chancellor of Strategic Initiatives and works synergistically with the other Directors of the CMC Team.

Directing includes:

• In-depth analysis of all chemical processes as part of techno-economic analysis and feasibility assessments, both at the low-TRL and high-TRL maturation levels.
• Lead assessor for Process flow design and Front-End Engineering Design for all chemical manufacturers partnering with the CMC.
• Provides chemistry and chemical engineering support to business partners where appropriate.
• Assigning research priorities.
• Leading CMC programmatic Integration with National Laboratories.

Co-leading includes:

• Oversees all technical components of the CMC Proposal Program, providing scientific writing and review for all grants and other funding mechanisms.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of funding solicitations (RFPs/FOAs) to deconstruct complex requirements into actionable checklists, compliance matrices, and writing outlines.
• Provide primary writing for all chemistry components, supports other technical writing, and review proposal drafts against the solicitation's rubric to identify gaps in logic or responsiveness before the proposal reaches the final review stage.
• Integrates other specialists into non-chemistry related technical components or proposals.
• Assist faculty in translating complex scientific information into value propositions clear to corporate R&D leads and foundation boards.

Technical oversight of economic development packages

• Develop relationships and long-term teaming agreements with potential partners.
• Integrates chemical manufacturing partners with KCEDC/KCADC and other appropriate economic development agencies.
• Provides expertise and support to regional economic development agencies.

Oversight of all technology related subawards from the CMC to partner organizations.

• Collects data and metrics of subawards and CMC partners in the chemical processing space.
• Integrates metrics into Critical Materials Exchange.
• Provides metrics and initial analysis to internal evaluators.
• Prepares progress reports, dashboard data, and summaries to CMC leadership.

NOTE: This position is 100% grant funded and contingent on continued funding.

NOTE: This position may require travel.

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.

Ability to gain and maintain a United States security clearance at the Secret level or higher.

Strongly Preferred Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering.
• At least 9 years of experience in Chemistry with a focus on economic development, research, process flow design and grant writing, proposal development, or technical communication, or a combination thereof.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with National labs, corporate sponsors, and economic development agencies.
• Strong ability to write for diverse audiences (scientific, corporate, lay public).
• Knowledge of federal innovation programs (e.g., NSF TIP, I-Corps, SBIR/STTR).
• Practical experience with chemical metallurgy.

Anticipated hiring range is $95,000 to $120,000 annually, commensurate with experience, education, and internal equity.

Open until filled, for best consideration apply by February 15, 2026

Kansas City offers the best of both worlds-a vibrant, urban community with Midwestern appeal. The city's rich history and its modern-day, innovative thinking come together to create an eclectic group of neighborhoods that offer a little something for everyone. From thriving arts districts, an energetic downtown nightlife, casual to upscale shopping and champion sports teams, you will have no problem making yourself at home. Of course, one of Kansas City's biggest claims to fame is its food, especially its world-famous barbecue. Foodies will delight in the culinary scene found throughout the city. Ranging from award-winning chefs to cozy pizza joints, Kansas City definitely is not lacking any flavor.

UMKC's campuses are conveniently nestled in the middle of all the action. Volker Campus is just minutes from the legendary Country Club Plaza, perfect for shopping or restaurants for lunch or after-work happy hours. Surrounded by hip neighborhoods and eateries, the Health Sciences Campus is located downtown near University Health Truman Medical Center and Children's Mercy Hospital.

UMKC is proud to be "Kansas City's university," and the campus and its people celebrate all the characteristics of the surrounding community. To learn more about life in Kansas City and find more resources, visit VisitKC.com.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.