External Research Program Manager

Job Title: External Research Program Manager

Department: Ecosystem Operator

Job Type: Full-Time

Location: Salt Lake City, UT (Onsite)

Our Mission

Blackrock Neurotech is 100% focused on improving human lives through neuroscience research and technology. The passion and dedication behind this mission has nurtured a dynamic, enjoyable and fulfilling corporate environment in which learning, and growth are commonplace. We operate in an innovative field that requires our staff to meet the highest standards. Every step of the way, we encourage one another by providing continuous motivation and promoting a healthy work environment.

Community Contributions

Not only are Blackrock’s employees committed to improving lives through their work, but many also strive to improve the community by volunteering in their spare time. Our efforts vary from donating blood and feeding the hungry to volunteering at the Utah Food Bank. We also value community education —teaching science labs to children, coaching sports teams, and teaching first aid courses. We take pride in our employee’s extracurricular activities that contribute to the betterment of local communities.

Disclosure

In order to provide a safe and productive work environment, all offers of employment at Blackrock Neurotech are contingent upon a thorough background check. A criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate from an offer of employment.

About The Role

The External Research Program Manager role in the Ecosystem Operator program is suited to scientifically minded candidates with experience and interest in program management, strategic planning, and research development and execution. Long-term success requires foresight into emerging scientific trends in brain–computer interface (BCI) technologies and the ability to manage multiple collaborative studies with clinical and research partners. The goal is to drive high-impact research that advances the field of neurotechnology.

The External Research Program Manager will develop research programs to support Blackrock Neurotech’s BCI roadmap while fostering strong collaborations within Blackrock and across the academic and industrial research communities. Responsibilities include defining focus areas and solicitations aligned with company strategy, managing proposal solicitation and review processes, recruiting internal and external reviewers, and ensuring that funded efforts remain effective and strategically aligned with company goals.

The Program Manager will monitor recipient progress, oversee deliverables and milestones, and, in collaboration with Blackrock’s internal proposal writing team, support publications and funding proposals. The EO Manager is encouraged—but not required—to contribute to their own publication track record through appropriate collaborative efforts.

What You'll Do

• Define strategic goals and allocate funding to build a productive external research program.
• Implement a rigorous system for soliciting, receiving, reviewing, and awarding external research efforts.
• Manage a portfolio of funded research with clinical and academic partners, ensuring consistent communication and progress.
• Build a research program that generates high-quality research publications and media presence.
• Collaborate with internal departments to understand roadmaps, trends, and needs.
• Monitor and communicate program progress and outcomes internally and externally.
• Stay current with advancements in neurotechnology and related fields to guide research strategy.
• Mentor junior scientists and provide team guidance.
• Travel up to 25% to visit funded research sites.
  
  

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in program management, scientific grant review, and strategic planning.
• Expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in statistics and critical thinking.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in clinical research, preferably in neuroscience-related fields, but including engineering related efforts in our field.
  
  

Physical And Other Requirements

• Ability to work in office setting
• Sitting and standing while typing