Innovation Officer, Biosphere 2 (Part Time)

Biosphere 2 at the University of Arizona is in search of an Innovation Officer. The Innovation Officer position at Biosphere 2 will inherit and significantly expand the B2Twin Vertically Integrated Project (VIP) and its associated Honors 392H course, cultivating a new frontier in transdisciplinary, experiential learning at the University of Arizona. The role will drive cutting-edge opportunities in AI, XR, and Robotics, building on the B2Twin initiative to create a dynamic, scientifically rigorous virtual replica of Biosphere 2, utilizing technologies such as NVIDIA Omniverse, Unreal Engine 5, and LiDAR systems. A key emphasis will be on workforce development, empowering graduate and undergraduate students from diverse majors to gain hands-on experience, contribute to a real-world product, and develop advanced technical portfolios in these high-demand fields, transforming their education from passive observation to active creation. The Innovation Officer will be responsible for coordinating these complex, university-wide activities, including business development and fostering strategic partnerships with industry leaders like NVIDIA, as well as environmental research institutions and government agencies, positioning B2Twin as a national model for innovation and global impact.

Biosphere 2 advances our understanding of natural and human-made ecosystems through integrated research that drives the discovery and development of interventions that increase the resilience and sustainability of Earth systems and human quality of life. We advance research in our unique facilities, conduct interdisciplinary science education, and foster leadership initiatives focused on developing scalable solutions for our planet and beyond.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Develop deeper relationships between students and Biosphere 2 through B2Twin program experiences by:

• Creating and managing the B2Twin VIP.
• Creating and managing HNRS 392H.
• Creating and managing B2Twin capstone experiences and independent studies.
• Offering transdisciplinary technology mentorship, guiding students through hands-on digital twin development projects, science communications, and entrepreneurial activities.

Business Development:

• Create business development opportunities by focusing on revenue generation and partnership development, including:
  • Identify untapped revenue-generating opportunities through B2.
  • Develop targeted revenue-generating opportunities from B2's unique research capabilities and conference facilities.

B2 Partnership Outreach and Management:

• Cultivate and manage strategic relationships with (external) tech industry partners, such as NVIDIA, AWS, Google, etc.
• Cultivate and manage strategic relationships with (internal) U of A Colleges and Departments, such as the Honors College, College of Info Science, UCATT, Undergraduate Education Research, etc.

B2 Product Development and Revenue Generation:

• Lead the commercialization of AI-driven environmental solutions through innovative business structures and strategic relationships.
• Promote initiatives to revitalize the Biosphere 2 campus and extend its commercial potential as a research, teaching, and conference facility.

Artificial intelligence Innovation:

• Leverage B2's unique datasets and controlled environments for AI research and development.
• Focus on the intersection of AI, XR, and robotics within Biosphere 2's unique facility.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external strategic partners & senior leadership.
• Ability to develop and present business plans to potential investors and stakeholders.
• Knowledge of contemporaneous AI, XR and Robotics innovations and related topics.
• Knowledge of professional science communications production and methodologies.
• Skills in organizing, coordinating, implementing and managing complex projects.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• 10+ years' experience in for-profit digital world.
• 10+ years' experience of proven business development.
• Proven expertise with AI tools and related technologies.