Director, Space Innovation

Job Summary

This position will be located in Washington D.C.

Auburn University’s Office of the Senior Vice President for Research and Economic Development is seeking a qualified candidate for the role of Director of Space Innovation . This position provides strategic leadership for planning and interdisciplinary research initiatives that advance space development and operations. It positions the University as a key contributor to the national space agenda by aligning institutional efforts with emerging priorities and fostering innovation across sectors. Through these efforts, the role enhances the University’s impact on the space economy and reinforces its reputation as a leader in space research and technology. Essential Functions

Strategic Vision & Leadership: Defines and drives the strategic vision for space innovation applied research, ensuring alignment with the mission and priorities of the Applied Research Institute ( ARI ) and its Executive Director. Leads the development and execution of high-impact initiatives that position the University at the forefront of space-related applied research.

Team Management & Talent Development: Oversees and supervises space innovation personnel, fostering a culture of excellence through professional development, performance evaluations, and regular goal-oriented engagement. Builds a high-performing team that delivers on ARI’s objectives and adapts to evolving research priorities.

Growth Strategy & Technical Roadmap: Develops and sustains a comprehensive growth strategy and technical roadmap for space innovation, targeting emerging sponsor needs and technology gaps. Champions the development of cutting-edge research proposals that secure funding and advance the University’s reputation in space innovation.

Stakeholder Engagement & Proposal Development: Serves as a primary liaison with U.S. Government agencies, industry partners, academic faculty, staff, and students to promote collaborative applied research. Leads the creation of competitive proposals, detailed budgets, project schedules, and progress reports; communicates outcomes effectively to internal and external stakeholders.

Defense & Aerospace Partnership Development: Designs and executes strategies to position the University as a trusted partner for non-traditional defense and aerospace companies. Provides access to critical capabilities for technology maturation, including testing, evaluation, and qualification infrastructure.

Academic Integration & Instruction: Advises university leadership and faculty on the evolution of space-focused academic programs, contributing to curriculum development and instruction within the space systems certificate program. Bridges research and education to cultivate the next generation of space innovation leaders.

Program Development and Cross-campus Impact: Leads the conceptualization and planning of a university-wide space program in space research and education, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and long-term institutional impact.

Technical Reporting & Strategic Planning: Prepares comprehensive technical reports to support both short-term initiatives and long-range strategic planning efforts, ensuring informed decision-making and sustained progress.

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact : Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence : We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You : Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama : The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone : Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science or closely related field and 16 years’ experience in conducting space-related engineering and research projects, including research and development and program management, within both government and industry settings.

or

• Master’s degree in Degree in Engineering, Science or closely related field and 12 years’ experience in experience conducting space-related engineering and research projects, including research and development and program management, within both government and industry settings.

or

• PhD degree in Engineering, Science or closely related field and 8 years’ experience in experience conducting space-related engineering and research projects, including research and development and program management, within both government and industry settings.
• Must have a security clearance.
• Must be willing to travel in-state; domestic

Minimum Skills, License, and Certifications

Minimum Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of space innovation trends and emerging technologies in applied research
• Knowledge of sponsor landscapes, funding mechanisms, and technology gaps in space innovation
• Skill in building and leading multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and researchers
• Skill in developing technical roadmaps and long-term growth strategies
• Ability to align research initiatives with institutional mission and executive priorities
• Ability to lead high-impact initiatives that elevate institutional reputation and influence
• Ability to foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Ability to mentor and develop talent in technical and research roles
• Ability to identify and pursue strategic research opportunities aligned with sponsor needs
• Ability to lead proposal development for competitive research funding