Technical Research & Industry Development Lead

Job Summary

We are seeking a motivated and technically versatile professional to support the development of industry-focused research initiatives and strategic partnerships. This role works closely with the CIEST Laboratory Director to identify emerging opportunities, develop project concepts, engage with industry stakeholders, and prepare compelling research proposals that lead to externally funded collaborative projects.

The technical research & industry proposal development lead helps initiate and shape new research projects by identifying industrial needs, aligning them with laboratory capabilities, and developing strategic project concepts for academic‑industry collaborations. The position is 50% FTE (part‑time) initially, with the possibility of full‑time conversion as projects develop.

• Work closely with the Laboratory Director to identify emerging research and commercialization opportunities.
• Develop one‑page technical concept summaries and project pitches for industry engagement.
• Research industrial market needs, technology gaps, and funding opportunities.
• Identify potential academic‑industry collaboration opportunities across multiple sectors.
• Lead preparation of technical research proposals for industry‑sponsored projects, including technical narratives, statements of work, research objectives and deliverables, project frames (schedules, milestones, budgets).
• Coordinate proposal development among faculty, researchers, technical staff, and external partners.
• Align laboratory capabilities with evolving industrial priorities.
• Translate broad technical concepts into clear and compelling project plans.
• Maintain awareness of contemporary and emerging technologies and potential markets leading to commercialization.
• Engage professionally with faculty, researchers, industry representatives, and technical teams.
• Facilitate technical discussions and collaborative planning meetings.
• Communicate complex engineering concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Support long‑term partnership development and relationship management.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Applied Science, Technology, or related technical field required.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in technical proposal development, research program development for academia or industry, or engineering project development/technical business development.
• Demonstrated track record of developing proposals that resulted in funded or implemented projects.
• Strong technical writing and proposal preparation skills.
• Broad technical literacy across multiple engineering and technology domains.
• Strong interpersonal communication and relationship‑building skills.
• Technically curious and adaptable across disciplines.
• Strong initiative and self‑direction.
• Ability to work effectively in ambiguous or early‑stage project environments.
• Persistent mindset to sustain long‑term opportunity development efforts.
• Strategic thinker with practical execution capability.
• Excellent organizational and project coordination skills.
• Strong networking and interpersonal communication abilities.

• Advanced degree in Engineering, Science, Technology Management, or related field.
• Experience working within university research environments, national laboratories, or R&D organizations.
• Experience engaging with industrial sponsors and corporate research groups.
• Familiarity with sponsored research processes and contract/project development.
• Knowledge of emerging technology ecosystems and industrial innovation trends.

Salary range: $50,000 to $55,000 per year. Relocation assistance not available.

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world‑class outdoor recreation.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Background check will be required in accordance with the Boulder Campus Background Check Policy.

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