Center Manager – MU‑VT IARCT²

About the role

The Center Manager will oversee the day‑to‑day operations of the MU‑VT IARCT² research centre, acting as the primary liaison between Mahindra University and Virginia Tech. This role ensures smooth coordination of interdisciplinary projects, faculty teams, industry partners and funding agencies while supporting the centre’s strategic growth.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate daily operations of the MU‑VT IARCT² centre.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between Mahindra University and Virginia Tech teams.
• Support planning, execution and monitoring of interdisciplinary research projects and centre initiatives.
• Manage project documentation, reporting, review meetings and progress tracking.
• Coordinate proposal submissions, sponsored research activities and funding opportunities.
• Organise workshops, conferences, seminars, industry interactions and outreach events.
• Maintain records of projects, publications, patents, collaborations and centre achievements.
• Develop and manage digital communication materials such as newsletters, reports, website updates and promotional content.
• Assist leadership with strategic planning, partnership development and institutional engagement.
• Coordinate with faculty, research scholars, administrative offices and external agencies to ensure smooth centre functioning.
• Support the development of national and international collaborations with academic, industry and governmental organisations.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Science, Technology Management, Management, Public Policy or a related discipline.
• Strong understanding of research ecosystems, interdisciplinary projects and academic institutions.
• Experience in project coordination, research administration, innovation management or centre operations (preferred).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational, interpersonal and multitasking abilities.
• Proficiency in documentation, reporting, digital communication and project‑management tools.
• Experience handling sponsored research projects, grants, accreditation or institutional collaborations (desirable).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Problem‑solving and stakeholder‑management capabilities.
• Interest in innovation ecosystems, emerging technologies and research‑driven institutional development.

Required skills