*NIH PROGRAM MANAGER

The OK Catalyst NIH Senior Program Manager is a key member of the Tom Love Innovation Hub staff, working closely with the OK Catalyst Executive Director to plan and execute all outreach, training, and mentoring initiatives. The NIH Senior Program Manager will be responsible for a broad spectrum of tasks and projects supporting programs designed to increase Oklahoma’s competitiveness in the federal SBIR/STTR program, a $4 billion dollar funding source for early-stage innovators.  

This position will lead OK Catalyst’s NIH Funding Lab supporting promising startups interested in pursuing NIH SBIR/STTR funding. OK Catalyst utilizes a holistic approach to inspire, guide, launch, and grow scalable technology-based startups through all aspects of securing and managing federal SBIR/STTR funding. OK Catalyst’s programs have been recognized as among the best in the U.S. and leverage SBIR/STTR funding to commercialize university research and launch startups across the Heartland.

This position will also work closely with the Oklahoma Biotech Startup Programs (OKBIOSTART) program, supporting OKBIOSTART participant’s pursuit of NIH SBIR/STTR funding. OKBIOSTART’s suite of programs is dedicated to accelerating innovation, commercializing research, and growing new biotech startups in Central Oklahoma in a repeatable, scalable manner.

Primary Roles & Responsibilities:

• Assist with preparation and execution of OK Catalyst’s programs focused on training and mentoring SBIR/STTR program candidates across the state and region, with a specific focus on NIH opportunities
• Support SBIR/STTR candidates through a Phase I proposal submission
•  Provide proposal reviews and feedback to program participants
•  Develop and maintain a comprehensive understanding of the SBIR/STTR programs, stay up to date with federal and agency specific program guidance and changes
• Support day-to-day operations in support of OK Catalyst programs and program participants
• Keep detailed notes of participant’s needs, progress, and outcomes throughout the course of the programs
•  Support SBIR/STTR awardees through a Phase I project period including Phase II proposal submission preparation
• Develop and maintain program procedures and guides for future implementations
• Support OK Catalyst programs through the development of training courseware & other relevant materials
• Plan, coordinate, and participate as required in special promotional, informational, mentoring, and/or training events focused on the SBIR/STTR programs
• Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position

Required Education: Master's degree AND

• 36 months of program administration or related experience.

Equivalency Substitution:  will accept 72 months of related experience in lieu of the Masters degree for a total of 108 months of related experience.

Skills:

• Project management
• Entrepreneurial program development
• Team building
• Networking
• Proposal writing
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Excellent organizational skills with keen attention to detail
• Proficient in composing or presenting oral and written communication
• Strong networking skills and able to build relationships with other ESOs
• Confidence in facilitating client consultations and discussions to provide program guidance
• Ability to work independently with modest supervision
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize multiple projects, often with shifting priorities and requiring collaboration across many departments
• Demonstrate curiosity, creativity, and a drive for excellence

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Ability to engage in repetitive motions.
• Standard Office Environment.  Frequent exposure to pressure caused by deadlines and busy periods. May be required to travel. May require contact with other departments and university officials. 

Departmental Preferences:

• PhD degree
• Track record of securing NIH funding
• Experience with leading entrepreneurial support programs, technology transition, venture capital, product development, and commercialization
• Direct NIH SBIR/STTR program experience 

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing .

Diversity Statement: The University of Oklahoma is committed to achieving a diverse, equitable, and inclusive university community by recognizing each person's unique contributions, background, and perspectives. The University of Oklahoma strives to cultivate a sense of belonging and emotional support for all, recognizing that fostering an inclusive environment for all is vital in the pursuit of academic and inclusive excellence in all aspects of our institutional mission.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.