Associate Lab Director - Disney Research

About The Role & Team

Disney Research Imagineering (DR) is at the cutting edge of combining storytelling with technological innovation to create magical experiences for audiences around the world. Our team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what is possible, using deep research and development to enrich Disney's storytelling and entertainment.

The Associate Lab Director plays a pivotal role in coordinating the technical and functional management of all Glendale-based Disney Research project teams. This role requires a balance of technical understanding, research, and leadership skills to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and the successful integration of research outputs into Disney's broader objectives.

This role will report to the Lab Director of Disney Research.

What You Will Do

• Lead and manage research projects that align with Disney's strategic goals, encouraging innovation in diverse areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and immersive display technologies.
• Provide oversight and mentorship for all Glendale-based project teams working with the Lab Director to define strategy and execution plans.
• Oversee the development and mentorship of a diverse, creative, and highly skilled team of researchers and technologists.
• Develop a culture of creativity, collaboration, and excellence within the lab.
• Communicate complex research outcomes to non-expert partners, ensuring alignment with business goals.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and research methodologies that can drive innovation within Disney.
• Functionally manage a team of Research Scientists and R&D Imagineers, providing development guidance and feedback to each team member.
• Review, raise, and brief technical/research plans to the Lab Director, partnering with the Lab Director and other portfolio executives to streamline and align with near and long-term business objectives.
• Work with Lab Director to define conference, publication, and university engagement strategy to identify and execute on long-term high-impact opportunities aligned with broader department objectives.
• Advise Lab Director on the status of teams and projects –finding opportunities for improved efficiency, cohesion, and productivity and providing recommendations and partnering for course corrections and improvements.
• Align project trajectories with department priorities, identifying expertise gaps and opportunities for growth.
  
  
  

Required Qualifications & Skills

• A Ph.D. in Computer Science, Robotics, Engineering, Interactive Media, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Demonstrated experience in leading research projects and teams, with a track record of innovation and excellence.
• Strong understanding of the technology landscape, both in academia and private sector, and its application in entertainment and storytelling.
• Outstanding leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• A passion for Disney's mission and a strong alignment with our values of creativity, storytelling, and innovation.
• Extensive experience in project and team management, within a research and development setting.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and handle complex projects.
• Ability to link technical teams, management, and external partners.
• Strategic problem solver with the ability to find opportunities for improvement and innovation.
  
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the entertainment industry, particularly in areas related to Disney's core business.
• A strong network within the academic and professional research communities.
• Published research in credible journals or conferences.
• Experience in translating research into commercial products or experiences.
  
  
  

Education

• A Ph.D. in Computer Science, Robotics, Engineering, Interactive Media, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
  
  
  

Additional Information

This role is located onsite in Glendale, CA.

Benefits and Perks:

Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life. This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities, and special extras that only Disney can provide. Learn more about our benefits and perks at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits.

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The hiring range for this position in Glendale, CA is $184,300 to $247,100 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.