Director II Research Operations and Planning

Research Compliance

Job Description:

Technology Advancement Office (TAO)

MU research and scholarship often lead to new technologies, tools, therapeutics, diagnostics, compositions, processes and other inventions that can improve people's lives. The Technology Advancement Office (TAO) partners with faculty, companies, entrepreneurs and investors to bring those innovations to market.

TAO is part of MU's Division of Research, Innovation & Impact and is currently looking for a Director II Research Operations and Planning. We work at the interface of science, business and patent law to evaluate, protect and pave the way for the translation of innovations into products, jobs and businesses.

The Director II of Research Operations and Planning will direct staff and provide leadership to achieve goals and vision of the organization. Responsible for hiring and retaining staff, career coaching, professional development and accountability for the performance of the team. In conjunction with the Associate Vice Chancellor for Research, this position develops and implements strategic plans for the department. Additionally, this position will identify and resolve strategic issues of substantial significance that affect the overall functioning beyond the immediate unit, consult and advise with the Associate Vice Chancellor for Research.

• Oversee the complete contract life cycle and portfolio for a comprehensive technology licensing program for the campus.
• Develop and maintain positive and effective relationships with stakeholders, including department chairs, directors of transnational research programs, faculty, senior campus administrators, Office of General Counsel, research sponsors, and legal counsel of external entities.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• The Director will exercise maximum initiative and sound leadership within the parameters of the department and university policies and regulations to accomplish the licensing goals and objectives of the Tech Advancement Office and will develop and determine innovative solutions and implement actions to resolve issues.
• Works closely with the Associate Vice Chancellor for Research to set the strategic direction of the commercialization process for the university.
• Provide general oversight, training, and mentoring to professional licensing/commercialization staff.
• Full scope of responsibilities for identifying and negotiating agreements, licensees, contracts, and evaluating portfolio inventions in various stages of development.
• Ensure compliance, enforcement and implementation of University-wide and campus policies

Successful candidates will have exceptional organizational and time management skills. They must demonstrate the following durable skills : collaboration, communication, critical thinking, mindfulness, growth mindset, and fortitude. Additionally, confidentiality, integrity, and a commitment to the university's values.

Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm

A Master's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 5 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

J.D. or equivalent legal experience
10+ years of intellectual property licensing and corporate R&D contracting, or directly related experience.

In-depth understanding and expertise in industry research contract drafting and negotiation, licensing transactions, and technology transfer processes, including proven ability to independently develop and implement complex contracting strategies.

• Advanced knowledge of legal aspects related to intellectual property, contracts, and licensing agreements.
• Knowledge of industry trends, market dynamics, and emerging technologies.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to secure favorable terms in industry contracts.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities to navigate complex technology transfer scenarios.
• Leadership skills to drive collaborative efforts within cross-functional teams.
• Proven ability to independently develop and implement industry contracts strategies.
• Exceptional customer relationship skills, consensus building skills and political acumen with proven ability to cultivate and maintain strong collaborative relationships with faculty and other internal stakeholders, build outside professional relationships, and represent the university externally.

Salary Range: $92,125 - $144,102

Grade: GGS-014

University Title: Director II Research Operations and Planning

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application, resume, and cover letter

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen cultural festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

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.

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.