Introduction to A Trustworthy and Secure Cyber-Plexus for Digital Communities (TSCP-DC):
The first phase of TSCP developed an overlay network of appliances to increase cyber-security of control systems such as those that run the electric power grid. Key outputs included technology for verifying the security properties of policy enforcement appliances, policy specification and automation of specification of policies to be enforced by the appliances, technology for efficiently verifying properties of communication traffic within the network, security support for outside devices to interact with the secured system, and data analytics for anomaly and intrusion detection. The second and current phase uses the prior results, and integrates them into a much broader context. It will extend security technologies into new cyber-physical domains, and take a broader system view of a digital community that depends on several of these. It will address in particular the trust we can place in the security policies that protect the cyber-plexus infrastructure, that both integrates the monitoring and control of these cyber-physical systems, and which supports the cyber-activity of the inhabitants of the digital community.
About This Role:
As a Programme Manager at Illinois ARCS, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing and managing research programme, managing project timelines, resources to ensure their successful execution and deliveries. You will collaborate closely with senior management, cross functional teams, researchers, industry partners and stakeholders, to drive innovation and technology commercialization, and achieve research objectives. This role requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and a passion for driving impactful research initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Management:
· Lead the planning, execution, and monitoring research programs, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives
Project Coordination and Reporting:
· Manage project schedules, budgets, and resources effectively, ensuring adherence to timelines and budget constraints.
· Monitor and track programme progress, identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies to ensure successful delivery.
· Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders, including senior management, researchers, faculty members, industry partners, government and funding agencies to facilitate communication, resolve issues, and drive consensus on project deliverables.
· Compile reports for senior management and grantor.
Team Leadership:
· Lead and inspire cross-functional teams to achieve programme key performance indicators, providing guidance, support, and mentorship as needed.
· Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture that encourages innovation, creativity, and excellence.
· Effectively manage team resources, including workload allocation, staffing, and professional development.
Risk Management:
· Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to address challenges and ensure successful program implementation.
· Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, ethical standards and company policies throughout the programme lifecycle.
· Implement effective governance structures and reporting mechanisms to provide transparency and accountability to stakeholders.
Portfolio Development:
· Monitor and identify grantcalls and other funding opportunities.
· Engage funding organizations or companies to develop opportunities into research projects.
· Lead and coordinate proposal development with faculty and researchers to expand the Cyber research portfolio.
Stakeholders Engagement and Communication:
· Communicate with grantor on program updates, milestones, and achievements to stakeholders through regular status reports, presentations, and meetings.
· Organise and facilitate steering committee and scientific advisory meetings.
Continuous Improvement:
· Drive continuous improvements and initiatives to enhance programme effectiveness and efficiency.
· Remain up to date on relevant research topics, where possible, to the benefit of the programme.
Qualifications:
· Master’s degree in relevant field (eg. Computer Science or relevant Scientific or Management field) with a minimum of 3 years of experience in program management or related roles.
· Demonstrated expertise in program management, research, or similar positions, ideally within an academic or research setting.
· Strong leadership and team management skills, including the ability to develop and execute project plans, manage budgets, and mitigate risks.
· Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, coupled with adept interpersonal skills, to effectively engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
· Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic plans, manage budgets, and drive results in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
· A strategic-minded individual capable of task prioritization, decision-making, and achieving outcomes in dynamic settings.
· Having knowledge of research funding mechanism, grant management, and collaborations between academia and industry is beneficial.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit their resume/CV together with a cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience for the position.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.
