Associate at Purdue Research Foundation
Purdue Research Foundation · Washington, United States Of America · Hybrid
- Junior
- Office in Washington
Founded in 2021, the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue (KITDP) aims to secure freedom from techno-authoritarian threats by accelerating the widespread innovation and adoption of trusted tech. The Institute is building the Global Tech Trust Network of governments, companies, individuals, and learners united by shared trust principles and a common mission to ensure that technology advances freedom.
The Program Associate will provide operational and program support across the Institute, with a primary focus on events and convenings, while also contributing to broader partnership and organizational needs. This is a utility role – supporting logistics, data management, and cross-team execution to ensure KITDP delivers with excellence in a fast-moving, startup environment.
This is a unique opportunity for someone who is mission-driven, passionate about freedom and technology, and eager to roll up their sleeves to contribute across many areas. Excellence, teamwork, initiative, and a can-do attitude are essential.
Operational & Program Support
The Program Associate will provide operational and program support across the Institute, with a primary focus on events and convenings, while also contributing to broader partnership and organizational needs. This is a utility role – supporting logistics, data management, and cross-team execution to ensure KITDP delivers with excellence in a fast-moving, startup environment.
This is a unique opportunity for someone who is mission-driven, passionate about freedom and technology, and eager to roll up their sleeves to contribute across many areas. Excellence, teamwork, initiative, and a can-do attitude are essential.
Operational & Program Support
- Maintain shared workback plans, project folders, timelines, and tracking documents.
- Assist with vendor coordination, contracts, and operational logistics as needed.
- Support general operational needs, including managing inventory (supplies, swag, print materials).
- Provide administrative and coordination support for cross-functional projects.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support the team and organization.
Events & Convenings
- Help plan and execute in-person, hybrid, and virtual events.
- Support logistical tasks such as venue scouting, catering, AV, registration, and on-site execution.
- Prepare materials including agendas, briefing books, signage, name tags, and participant packets.
- Manage RSVPs and guest communications to ensure smooth participant experiences.
- Document outcomes, capture lessons learned, and prepare debrief summaries post-event.
Partnerships & Engagement Support
- Maintain and update CRM and databases with accurate contact, stakeholder, and participant records.
- Assist in sorting, segmenting, and curating stakeholder lists for outreach.
- Help track metrics, campaign results, and engagement data in partnership with cross-functional teams.
- Generate simple reports and summaries for leadership review.
Success Metrics
- Reliability: Tasks and assignments consistently completed on time and with attention to detail.
- Event Support: Event logistics executed smoothly with positive feedback from internal teams and participants.
- Data Accuracy: CRM entries, lists, and records maintained with high accuracy and completeness.
- Team Contribution: Demonstrated initiative in supporting colleagues and taking ownership of tasks.
- Learning & Growth: Ongoing skill development and ability to take on increasing levels of responsibility.
- Attitude & Engagement: High energy, collaborative spirit, extreme initiative, and a can-do mindset that strengthens team culture.
Required Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail.
- Ability to work with spreadsheets, databases, and CRM systems.
- Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
- Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel); HubSpot or other CRM experience a plus.
- Commitment to KITDP’s mission.
- A start-up mentality – initiative, flexibility, and willingness to pitch in across tasks.
- Eagerness to learn, high energy, and “go-getter” mindset.
- Ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team.
- Professionalism, reliability, and strong follow-through.
- Ability to interact with stakeholders from a wide range of professional and cultural backgrounds.
Required Education, Experience and Benefits Summary
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Preferred focus in Communications, Business Administration, International Affairs, or related field.
- Internship or related experience in event planning, operations, or nonprofit/policy work preferred.
Benefits Summary for eligible employees:
- 10 paid holidays per year.
- Accrue up to 22 vacation days a year.
- Traditional pre-tax 403(b) and Roth retirement plans available.
- 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan and immediate vesting.
- Health Savings Account- earn up to $450 annually towards medical expenses.
- Employer funded Preventative Dental and Vision insurance.
- Tuition discounts on eligible programs at Purdue University and Purdue Global for qualified employees, spouses, and dependents.
