Head, Research & Partnerships

We invite applications for the position of Head, Research & Partnership. Reporting to Senior Administrator while supporting the Associate Chair Research & Partnership (ACRP) Office in the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE), the incumbent shall provide leadership and is responsible for the planning, promotion, and strategic development of research collaborations with internal stakeholders and external partners including industry, institutions, and government agencies.

The key responsibilities include, but not limited to:

1. Lead strategic development with industry partners.

2. Lead the operation of ACRP Office.

3. Manage and facilitation of the research manpower matters.

4. Collate and analyze data research data.

5. Execute MAE’s strategy in industry engagement and development.

6. Facilitate new initiatives in MAE in entrepreneurship and innovation.

7. Provide strategic support to faculty on research proposals.

8. Prepare research proposals with faculty.

9. Act as point of contact with government agencies and companies.

The candidate is expected to have the following knowledge, experience, skills, and competencies: 

Knowledge and Experience:

• Minimum 10 years of relevant working experience in a senior management position, preferably from the tertiary education industry or relevant research industries.

• Have a proven track record of close working experience with multiple government agencies and companies or must be comfortable in approaching government agencies and companies.

• Good knowledge of industry and potential partners locally and abroad.

• Good knowledge of Intellectual Property and experience of Project Management in a R&D setting.

• Strong understanding of national research frameworks and funding schemes (e.g., NRF RIE2025, IAF-PP, IAF-ICP).

• Familiarity with academic-industry collaboration models, including Corporate Labs, Joint Labs, and public-private partnerships.

• Awareness of emerging technological trends and innovation ecosystems.

• Knowledge of university research governance, compliance, and intellectual property policies.

Skills:

• Strategic planning and execution.

• Proposal development and grant writing.

• Stakeholder engagement and relationship management.

• Budgeting and resource planning.

• Excellent written and verbal communication.

• Negotiation and conflict resolution.

• Analytical skills.

• Strong leadership, collaboration and problem-solving skills.

Competencies:

• Strong leadership and team coordination abilities.

• High level of initiative and problem-solving mindset.

• Ability to navigate complex institutional and external landscapes.

• Collaborative and adaptable in cross-functional environments.

• Results-oriented with a focus on impact and outcomes.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.