Executive Director, Automated Science Initiative - Office of the Vice President for Research

The Office of the Vice President for Research at Carnegie Mellon University is seeking a highly motivated, resourceful, and trustworthy individual to support our senior leadership team as Executive Director of the Carnegie Mellon AI-Enabled Automated Science Initiative. The Executive Director will play a central role in ensuring that Carnegie Mellon’s ambition to pioneer the future of automated science is reified across University stakeholders, draws in operational external public and private collaborations, and has a practical, immediate and durable operational grounding. Leadership by this individual will propel the University and its Colleges with a well-managed, cost-effective, high-performance asset in the CMU Cloud Lab that sustains high quality research, which in turn attracts high profile external investment for years to come. This role requires significant operational roll-up-sleeves work, including taking responsibility for assuring that the CMU Cloud Lab director and operations managers complete the installation, verification and initial launch of the automated instruments and software platforms to operate the CMU Cloud Lab according to target specifications. This will require responsibility for operational and organizational oversight for the CMU Cloud Lab, including contracts and negotiations, and overall business, finance, procurement, HR, and IT in close coordination with relevant CMU staff and departments. Once launched, the incumbent will develop and ensure operations and regulatory metrics are clearly articulated, endorsed by university-wide stakeholders, achieved and maintained to meet strategic and revenue targets. Additionally, they will serve as the primary interface with central facilities support and affiliated groups to oversee the successful delivery, launch, operation and maintenance of the Bakery Square physical facility and associated labs. The incumbent will be expected to promote a positive culture and environment in a fast-paced 24-7 operation. It is vital that the incumbent exhibits a deep understanding of today’s complex academic research and innovation environment, exceptional organizational, problem solving and people skills, and great flexibility and patience. The Executive Director reports directly to the Vice President and is a member of the office’s senior leadership team. Core responsibilities include: Incepts and champions a strategy for the advancement of AI-enabled automated experimentation in line with the present and future demands of cutting-edge research applications. Establishes a fiscally sound development plan for a major laboratory and capital endeavor, requiring hands-on experience standing up facilities and building teams. Invites broad university-wide engagement across diverse stakeholders through multiple regular channels of communication. Interfaces and collaborates with principal investigators, training, teaching, and research faculty across multiple departments and colleges within the university to meet strategic goals. Provide operational and organizational oversight for the CMU Cloud Lab, including contracts and negotiations, and overall business, finance, procurement, HR, and IT in close coordination with relevant CMU staff and departments. Matures an effective and efficient interface for internal CMU and external non-CMU users of the Cloud Lab, requiring a deep understanding of academic, industrial, government sectors. Builds and oversees staff from successful delivery, launch, operation and maintenance of the Bakery Square physical facility and associated labs. Leverages existing academic, federal, state, and industrial network on behalf of the University and stakeholders to pull in material and financial support. Ensures that team members and stakeholders associated with the Initiative are aligned and working in concert to achieve the shared objectives. Facilitates effective and efficient decision-making processes for the Initiative by gathering data, assembling appropriate stakeholders, and formulating recommendations. Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work. You should demonstrate: Demonstrated deep technical expertise in one or more areas of focus for the Initiative Exceptional interdisciplinary skills and demonstrated impact across Natural Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering, and Industrial Design to win the support and confidence of internal and external stakeholders. An unusual and exemplary combination of strategist and operator, capable of supporting both the big vision University needs as well as the factory floor work to whatever degree necessary to ensure success. Exceptional communication skills, interpersonal skills, diplomacy and the ability to effectively interact and build trusted relationships with diverse internal and external constituencies. High administrative and analytical skills, able to see patterns, be a fast thinker, and make decisions with attention to accuracy, detail and local context. Skilled supervisor and coach, able to motivate or inspire both junior and senior staff. Passionate alignment with Carnegie Mellon’s educational mission. Strong problem solving and conflict resolution skills to manage complex tasks and/or those that require balancing competing interests. Ability to handle sensitive information and maintain confidentiality with discretion and good judgement. Fast learner, result driven, accepts and acts on all forms of feedback to effect change. Demonstrate patience, reliability, composure and stability under pressure. Adaptable and open to change as the office and university evolves. Qualifications: Education: Ph.D. or other terminal degree in multiple disciplines of relevance to Carnegie Mellon’s research and innovation portfolio preferred. Experience: A minimum of eight (8) years of experience leading interdisciplinary administrative and / or executive technical management is required. Experience with federal, state, and industry strategy and policy engagement, working in a higher education environment preferred. A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered. Requirements: Successful background check Additional Information and Requirements: Work Posture: Note this is a part-time position; nonetheless with the importance of stakeholder relationships, the role is primarily in person on campus, and requires travel with some remote/ hybrid flexibility. Sponsorship: Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. Security Clearance: A security clearance or ability to obtain a security clearance is preferred. Travel Requirements: This position requires travel flexibility both domestically and internationally. Nomination and Application Procedures: Interested candidates are invited to apply by August 11th with a cover letter, resume, and through the CMU Workday application portal. Applications received after that date may be considered until the position is filled. Carnegie Mellon University is committed to diversity and inclusion, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees. Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance. Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more! For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page. At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations. Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today! Location Pittsburgh, PA Job Function University Administration and Management Position Type Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term) Full Time/Part time Part time Pay Basis Salary More Information: Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. Click here to view a listing of employee benefits Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. Statement of Assurance Interested in a career with Carnegie Mellon University but not finding anything that currently aligns with your interests, background, or experience? Learn how to sign up for Job Alerts through your candidate profile. If your heart is in your work, come work with us. Carnegie Mellon University isn’t just one of the world’s most renowned educational institutions – it’s also a hotspot for some of the most talented doers, dreamers, and difference-makers on the planet. When you join our staff, you’ll become an important part of our mission to create a healthier, safer, and more just life for all. No matter what your role or location, you’ll connect and collaborate with dedicated, passionate colleagues – and you’ll have the satisfaction of delivering work that truly matters. At Carnegie Mellon, an unshakeable commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is woven into all aspects of our campus culture. We cultivate a vibrant, welcoming environment where everyone is valued and encouraged to contribute and achieve. In addition to competitive benefits and a robust support network, you’ll have access to many tools and resources to sharpen your abilities and professional skills, as well as opportunities to engage and share perspectives with a dynamic and inspiring community of uniquely talented staff, faculty, students, and alumni. The future is awaiting your expertise and intellect. Come join the architects of what’s next. Apply now. Learn more about Student Employment. Please see Faculty Careers. For technical assistance, email HR Services or call 412-268-4600. If you are an individual with a disability and you require assistance with the job application process, please email Equal Opportunity Services or call 412-268-3930. Prospective Employee Disclosures