Research Collaboration Coord; Boyd - AI Center

Job No: 540131

Work Type: Full Time

Location: Hillsborough

Categories: Grant or Research Administration, Artificial Intelligence, Agriculture Operations

Department:  - AG-GCREC - BALM

Management Analyst

Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area and two years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Industry Engagement & Relationship Development: Serve as a vital connector and strategic advisor to the Associate Center Director of AI, working closely with stakeholders to define industry‑driven research priorities and coordinating the research team to ensure those priorities are met. The coordinator will also link faculty expertise with agricultural technology stakeholders such as equipment manufacturers, AI developers, robotics firms, and grower organizations.

They will coordinate meetings with faculty and engineering teams to determine optimal technical approaches that address priorities and support the establishment of joint projects with industry. They will collaborate with UF Innovate and other university commercialization units to ensure efficient processes that support technology transfer and commercialization and assist startups and entrepreneurial ventures by connecting them with relevant UF research expertise.

Research Collaboration & Project Facilitation: Coordinate research efforts across UF faculty and between UF research teams and external partners. Integrate stakeholder priorities into research programs to ensure alignment with market demands and production challenges. Support research activities through structured project planning, organization, and facilitation. The role will also support the development of sponsored projects, field demonstrations, and agreements that accelerate the translation of research into scalable agricultural solutions, while supporting startups through access to faculty expertise.

Will be required to drive for meeting with external stakeholders.

Administrative Reporting and Record Keeping: Maintain records of engagement activities, project outcomes, and stakeholder feedback to guide continuous improvement.

Participation in Committees and Working Groups: Contribute to UF/IFAS committees and task forces relevant to agricultural technology, AI applications, and industry partnerships. Other duties as assigned. Work is performed under general direction. Independent judgment is expected in managing day‑to‑day tasks and external relationships. May supervise student assistants or interns as needed. Occasional evening or weekend hours for events or travel. Some in‑state and out‑of‑state travel required for industry meetings, conferences, or field demonstrations.

Must have valid driver’s license; eligibility to travel in the U.S.

$85,000–$105,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience and a full benefits package.

Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area and two years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• 3 years of professional experience in industry relations, technology transfer, business development, or stakeholder engagement.
• Master’s degree in a relevant field in agriculture, agribusiness, engineering, business, or a related field and familiarity with agricultural production systems and/or AI/automation technologies.
• Experience in commercialization, licensing, or startup development.
• Knowledge of Florida’s agricultural industry and land‑grant mission.
• Experience working for Ag Tech organizations.
• Ability to travel frequently.
• Subject to university motor vehicle check for travel reimbursement eligibility.

Full benefits package; for more information, visit benefits.hr.ufl.edu.

08 July 2026

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352‑392‑2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800‑955‑8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.