Job Description

Job Description
The Research Project manager will serve as a strategic integrator, technical synthesizer, and proposal development lead for the Defense Development and Applied Research Center (D2ARC). This dynamic role blends scientific expertise with programmatic coordination to drive growth across large-scale defense research initiatives. Working closely with key stakeholders including our researchers and research partners, the Division of Research Administration (DRA), and sponsors, the research coordinator will be the lead expert for the generation of white papers and early-stage proposals. The role will collaborate with researchers, DoD sponsors, university leadership, and industrial partners to ensure project execution, identify convergence opportunities across efforts, and position D2ARC as a national leader in applied defense research. This individual must be adept at understanding diverse technical areas, spotting strategic alignment, and helping translate innovative research into compelling funding opportunities.

This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon the continued funding of the grant.

Responsibilities
The Research Project Manager will serve as a strategic integrator and technical synthesizer for defense-related research initiatives. They will lead the development of white papers and early-stage proposals to support the growth and visibility of D2ARC. The individual will coordinate closely with internal researchers and external stakeholders, including Department of Defense sponsors, university leadership, and industrial partners, to ensure effective collaboration and alignment. They will act as a liaison between D2ARC, the Division of Research Administration (DRA), and research collaborators to support seamless project development and execution. The Research Project Manager will also be responsible for identifying opportunities to align and integrate multiple research efforts, promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration and innovation. Additionally, they will position D2ARC as a national leader in applied defense research by supporting strategic program development and translating innovative research into compelling and competitive funding proposals.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications

Education: Master’s Degree in Engineering field or discipline
Experience: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) and/or Department of Energy (DoE) security clearance. A master’s degree in any engineering field or discipline is required. The candidate should have at least two years of experience conducting high-tech research for the Army or other DoD projects, including experience in project execution and proposal writing. Additionally, the ability to travel both within the continental United States (CONUS) and outside the continental United States (OCONUS) up to 25% is necessary.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Have a solid understanding of basic accounting principles and demonstrate strong communication, customer service, and organizational skills. They should be able to multitask effectively and work independently in a fast-paced environment while managing a heavy workload and meeting time-sensitive deadlines. Excellent organizational and time-management abilities are essential, along with the flexibility to prioritize tasks based on shifting needs. The candidate should be comfortable working both autonomously and collaboratively within a team setting. Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills are required, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Has a strong understanding of state and federal contract and grant financial requirements, as well as a working knowledge of the University of Tennessee’s fiscal and human resources policies and procedures. They should be familiar with personnel maintenance processes, including hiring, I-9 e-verification, and USCIS (visa) procedures. Supervisory experience is required, along with experience using administrative systems such as DASH, Cayuse, and Banner. A background in financial operations at a comprehensive research university is also essential.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status.

Preferred Qualifications

Education: Doctoral Degree in Engineering field or discipline
Experience: Hold a doctorate in any engineering field or discipline. They should have at least two years of experience working on research projects with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) or other U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) institutions. Additionally, research experience supporting the Army Research Laboratory (ARL) or ARL-sponsored projects is highly desirable.