Director, Critical Infrastructure Resilience Institute Applied Research Institute
College of Engineering
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The Illinois Applied Research Institute (ARI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign seeks applicants for Director of Critical Infrastructure Resilience Institute (CIRI). The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has selected UIUC to act as Center Lead for CIRI to conduct research and education that enhances the resiliency of the nation’s critical infrastructures and businesses/public entities that own and operate those assets and systems. On behalf of DHS and potentially other government agencies and business enterprises, CIRI conducts output-oriented research intended to have positive, near-term impacts on the nation’s critical infrastructure. CIRI acts as a bridge between researchers and the owners and operators of critical infrastructure to ensure that impactful products, technologies, policies, procedures, and services are effectively transitioned from research to practical application in the real world. CIRI develops and delivers education and workforce development programs that enhance the awareness, knowledge, and skills of the critical infrastructure workforce and homeland security practitioners regarding the security and resilience of critical infrastructure. The Director will be responsible for leading this large initiative with an annual expenditure of > $3M with opportunities for significant growth. The incumbent will have final budget, operational, management and technical authority for CIRI, and will report to the Director of ARI. The candidate will be a full-time, benefits-eligible academic professional appointed on a 12-month service basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible following the closing date. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.
The Illinois Applied Research Institute, launched in late 2013, connects research across campus, engages with industry and federal clients to understand their needs, and bridges research and development gaps to bring research applications to market faster. With plans to expand across the state, the ARI is currently focused on four technical thrust areas: Critical Infrastructure, Data Science, Materials and Manufacturing, and Multi-Scale Simulation Modeling. More information about this position and the ARI can be found at http://appliedresearch.illinois.edu/.
Duties and Responsibilities
Lead, manage and nurture the CIRI program by establishing the overall program strategy and coordinating Center activities/milestones with DHS and CIRI staff.
Maintain and expand relationships with DHS by participating in working groups and cross-center opportunities Execute the program strategy by identifying key research areas, attracting the most qualified researchers, and leading the selection of committed stakeholders for each project
Establish program scope, work breakdown structure, milestone schedule, budget, and performance metrics to ensure on-time delivery of high-quality deliverables and meeting program performance criteria
Collaborate, foster, and manage partnerships with key internal and external stakeholders
Recruit, appoint and manage an executive advisory committee
Recruit, appoint and manage a team of infrastructure resilience thrust leader
Supervise personnel including work assignment and performance management
Direct and oversee an annual expenditure of > $3M including developing and executing an annual budget, and reviewing and approving long-term financial forecasts
Use independent judgement and decision making to proactively identify issues and make recommendations for solutions that impact the successful execution of the CIRI’s mission
Perform other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree in a science or engineering field
Ten or more years of experience developing and leading technology initiatives at the interface of the public and private sectors
Ten or more years of demonstrated success building and managing interdisciplinary teams and managing technical research and/or development projects delivering enterprise-class solutions to government and commercial markets
Ten or more years of experience as a technical program manager for projects sponsored by government agencies and major commercial enterprises
Demonstrated entrepreneurial and successful technical management experience at a senior organizational level
Be abreast of technical developments in relevant technical fields of engineering, applied science, business, policy and government
Documented success in collaborative and independent technology transition ventures
Strong proficiency in all forms of communication and ability to be a team player
Strong organizational skills that reflect ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with excellent attention to detail
Proven analytical and project management skills
Eligibility to obtain security clearance (requires U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status)
Preferred Qualifications
PhD in a science or engineering field
Proven executive-level technical, administrative and financial management skills with the ability to collaborate in a variety of relevant disciplines
Demonstrated ability to form and work in collaborative teams with researchers from peer organizations such as other applied research institutes, national laboratories, agency research centers, and/or academic institutions
An active U.S. national security clearance
To apply for this position, please create your candidate profile at http://jobs.illinois.edu and upload your cover letter, resume, and names/contact information for three references as a single PDF file by April 5, 2016. Interviews may take place prior the closing date and early applications are encouraged; however, full consideration will be given to complete applications received by the closing date. For further information regarding application procedures, contact Summer Redman at sredman@illinois.edu or 217-300-5400.
The University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.
Illinois is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. Illinois welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity. (www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu).