Program Director – Artificial Intelligence
Washington, D.C.
THE MISSION
In our collective pursuit of a sustainable future, the Advanced Research Projects Agency–Energy (ARPA-E) has emerged as a beacon, leading the charge in supporting transformative, impactful energy solutions. As the International Energy Agency attests, 65% of the technologies needed to meet our global emissions targets are already in play. ARPA-E champions the innovation of the remaining 35%, championing high-impact energy solutions too high-risk for private-sector investment.
Originating from a vision to ensure the U.S. retains its leadership in science and technology, ARPA-E has directed over $3.63 billion into transformative energy endeavors, culminating in revolutionary technological breakthroughs, game-changing patents, and robust private-sector funding.
Join our mission to shape the energy landscape of the future to ensure the nation's environmental health and economic prosperity.
THE ROLE
The Program Director of AI at ARPA-E is a visionary leader who is uniquely positioned at the intersection of energy and artificial intelligence. You’ll play a pivotal role in identifying technological gaps and spearheading innovative AI solutions to address our nation's energy challenges. As a key figure within ARPA-E, you’ll be entrusted with a significant budget and tasked with both the creation and management of transformative AI-centric energy programs. This dynamic role offers the opportunity to make a global impact, driving the integration of AI in energy solutions and shaping the future of sustainable energy.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead the development and management of a portfolio of AI-focused programs, including identifying gaps and potential areas of innovation in the energy sector.
- Oversee a $50M to $100M budget, ensuring effective allocation and utilization for maximum impact.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to craft Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs) and manage the proposal evaluation process.
- Actively manage projects, ensuring they align with ARPA-E's mission and objectives.
- Engage in continuous market assessment to pinpoint potential new funding areas for AI-centric ARPA-E technologies.
- Spearhead external outreach activities, building a robust stakeholder ecosystem and fostering collaborations.
- Work closely with leadership and communication teams to refine agency messaging and bolster ARPA-E’s profile in the AI domain.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for AI initiatives within ARPA-E, collaborating with other agency leaders.
- Drive the growth, improvement, and culture of the organization, contributing to the broader ARPA-E mission.
- Represent ARPA-E at various platforms, promoting the agency's AI initiatives and fostering industry collaborations.
CANDIDATE PROFILE
- Doctoral degree in a scientific or engineering field.
- At least 10 years of R&D experience, with deep technical expertise in AI and its applications in energy.
- Demonstrated R&D leadership experience, including organizational, project, and/or industry roles.
- Entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with a passion for ARPA-E’s mission and a strong business acumen.
- Comprehensive understanding of the U.S. energy landscape, its challenges, and the potential role of AI.
- Proven record of accomplishments, including publications, patents, technical reports, and/or commercial impact.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to convey complex AI concepts to diverse audiences.
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Willingness and ability to undertake significant travel.
PLEASE NOTE
- This is a term-limited position for an initial three-year term with the opportunity to extend by mutual agreement.
- This role is based in Washington, D.C. Routine remote work is not permitted.
- Relocation assistance offered.
