Executive, Research Collaboration

About the Role

The Executive – Research Collaboration will support the Client Management Team in enabling industry–academia interaction and research collaboration within the IIT Madras Research Park innovation ecosystem. The role involves working closely with clients to understand their requirements, support problem-solving, and facilitate their R&D and innovation objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Client Management & Engagement
• Support the Client Manager in managing relationships with Research Park clients and understanding their R&D and innovation requirements.
• Coordinate meetings and interactions between clients, IIT Madras faculty, researchers, and other ecosystem stakeholders.
• Support clients in identifying relevant academic and innovation resources within the IIT Madras ecosystem.
• Research Collaboration & Program Support
• Facilitate industry–academia interactions and support research collaboration initiatives.
• Assist in coordinating R&D, engineering, and innovation programs/projects across disciplines.
• Support the development and implementation of new programs and processes to strengthen client engagement and collaboration.
• Understand and follow established Research Park processes and contribute to their continuous improvement.
• Coordination & Data Management
• Coordinate schedules and meetings involving faculty, clients, visitors, and internal stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate client, engagement, and collaboration data across CRM and other systems.
• Prepare presentations, reports, meeting notes, and other documentation as required.
• Track action items and follow up with stakeholders to ensure timely progress.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Interest or experience in program/project management, preferably involving R&D or engineering projects.
• Understanding of consultative and enabling roles with a client-focused approach.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM systems, and other digital tools.
• Proactive approach with strong coordination and follow-up skills.

Qualifications

• Engineering, Humanities, or equivalent degree; a Management degree is preferred.
• Relevant experience in client management, program/project coordination, R&D, innovation, or industry–academia engagement is preferred.
• Freshers with exceptional talent and strong communication/coordination skills may also be considered.