HudsonAlpha - Innovation Program Manager

INSTITUTE OVERVIEW

The HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology (www.hudsonalpha.org) is a non-profit organization with the mission to use biotechnology and basic biological research to make important discoveries, improve human health, stimulate economic development, inspire young people to seek careers in science and teach members of the public the importance of science in their everyday lives. Located in Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, Alabama, one of the world's leading science and technology parks, HudsonAlpha's campus contains state-of-the-art laboratories for biological research and development, as well as education, in the areas of genomics, genetics and personalized medicine.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Innovation Program Manager is responsible for a portfolio of HudsonAlpha's innovation, entrepreneurship, or commercialization programs. Reporting to the Vice President for Innovation & Economic Development, this role translates strategy into action across internal innovation programs, startup incubation, venture programs, company recruitment, and ecosystem partnerships.

JOB SPECIFIC TASKS

• Manage internal innovation and proof-of-concept programs and processes that advance HudsonAlpha discoveries toward commercial readiness.
• Support operations and strategy for HudsonAlpha's biotech incubator and venture programs in Huntsville and at the Wiregrass Innovation Center in Dothan.
• Drive startup scouting, evaluation, and recruitment aligned with HudsonAlpha's scientific and strategic priorities.
• Contribute to the design and launch of entrepreneurship and innovation programming, including founder education, mentoring, ecosystem events and technology accelerators.
• Administer HudsonAlpha's innovation portal used to track IP, internal innovation projects, stage progression, and associated startups; ensure data quality, adoption, and reporting.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with Alabama-based industry, government, academic, and economic-development partners.
• Support strategic initiatives, track performance metrics, and continuously refine innovation programs.

EDUCATION AND REQUIRED SKILLS EXPERIENCE

Education and Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in life sciences or advanced technology driving innovation management, entrepreneurship, research translation, venture development, or related role
• Familiar with innovation, accelerator, or commercialization programs.
• Strong understanding of the biotech and life-science commercialization ecosystem.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with scientists, founders, investors, and public-sector stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and execution skills.

Preferred

• Advanced degree (PhD, MS, or equivalent) in science, engineering, biotechnology, or a related field.
• Experience in incubators, accelerators, venture studios, or tech transfer.
• Experience with portfolio management systems, innovation platforms, or commercialization dashboards.
• Familiarity with translational funding mechanisms (e.g., proof-of-concept programs, SBIR/STTR, public-private partnerships).