Managing Director Institute for Physical AI

Req Id: 36613

Job Title: Managing Director Institute for Physical AI

City: West Lafayette

Job Description:

Job Summary

The Institute for Physical Artificial Intelligence (IPAI) is a key component of Purdue Computes, university-wide strategic priority to advance research and education in computing, semiconductors, quantum science and physical artificial intelligence. Funded by a generous gift from the Lilly Endowment, the Institute for Physical Artificial Intelligence launched in 2024. The Managing Director for the IPAI reports to the IPAI Director and is responsible for the operational day-to-day management of IPAI, a major Institute within the Office of Executive Vice President for Research. This involves managing all details inherent to a university research institute, while maintaining a broader perspective on visibility (both external and internal), outreach, and fundraising, including supporting major grants. The Managing Director is part of the leadership team that implements the vision for research, development, translation, education, and training at the center and works with the Director and IPAI affiliated faculty to achieve the PIAI's long-term goals. The Managing Director represents IPAI at functions when delegated by the Director, provides leadership and guidance in organizing and managing special events and devises and implements plans for securing long-term financial support for the institute and communication. The Managing Director is responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies for the institute, as well as overseeing the creation of project summaries, progress reports and annual reports. Additionally, they serve as an operational liaison to the IPAI's advisory committees, affiliated faculty, external sponsors, internal business and academic units, and institutional and programmatic partners. The responsibilities also include assisting with the development of annual budgets, monitor finances, expenditures, and reporting. They also monitor and collect various data and information to ensure timely delivery of required publications, reports, intellectual property and licensing, and performance indicators. Some travel is anticipated.

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Engineering, Science or a related field
• Eight or more years of experience in program leadership and operational management, preferably within a university or research setting
• Demonstrated track record of increasing responsibilities in overseeing complex initiatives, managing large grants, and driving strategic priorities
• Experience in financial oversight, including budgeting, expenditures and reporting
• Strong leadership in building and managing collaborations with faculty, post-docs, advisory committees, external partners and funding agencies
• Ability to oversee day-to-day operations of a major university research center
• Ability to create and implement a strategic plan - delivering on short-term outcomes while staying focused on the long-term goals
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Ability to lead and coordinate cross-functional teams of faculty, post-docs, graduate students and administrative staff
• Ability to develop and implement project plans aligned with the Institute's long-term goals
• Experience in setting timelines, defining milestones, and managing deliverables for multiple initiatives simultaneously
• Strong organizational skills to balance day-to-day operations with strategic growth initiatives
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills to drive consensus and maintain engagement across diverse teams
• Ability to facilitate collaboration between internal and external stakeholders to advance research, education, and funding objectives
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to develop reports, proposals and promotional material
• Ability to communicate well with diverse audiences both internally and externally, including corporations, federal agencies and foundations
• Proficiency in budget development, financial monitoring, and expenditure tracking
• Experience in compliance reporting for research funding for internal and external purposes
• Ability to collect, analyze and report data related to research performance, publications and intellectual property

What Is Helpful:

• Experience in strategic planning and implementation, engagement, fundraising and communication strategy

What We Want You To Know:

• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A background check is required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not eligible for overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period
• Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply

What You'll Get In Return:

All university employees are afforded a generous benefits package, https://www.purdue.edu/hr/benewell/index.php, including medical/dental/vision insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions. As part of Purdue University's expansive employee benefit package, the University is proud to offer its employees the opportunity to grow, learn, and advance by offering a tuition remission opportunity at both Purdue University and Purdue Global.

Take Your Next Giant Leap

We never stop, we keep going, because Discovery is in our DNA, and we want you to discover a Career at Purdue University! Come work alongside a family of diverse culture with faculty, students, and staff who come together to become one, Boilermakers! Our greatest adventures are yet to come, and we want to include you.

Come take your Next Giant Leap and Discover your next career!

Education

Typically requires a Bachelor's degree

Experience

Minimum of 8 to 9 years of experience

FLSA Status

Exempt